What is a Deep Tissue Massage?
A deep tissue massage is a type of massage technique that's used to help relax deeper muscle tissue including strains or injuries from sports. It's considered to be therapeutic and a good option for managing pain.
What Will Happen During a Deep Tissue Massage?
Depending on what muscles you're going to have massaged, you will either be asked to lay on your side or your front. Tight muscles and tissues will be relieved through the masseur applying deep pressure with their hands, arms and elbows. If you're having the massage to help recover from an injury, you may need more than one session to fully treat the injury.
What Should I Wear To a Deep Tissue Massage?
It's advised that you wear something comfortable to your session. Leggings or jogging bottoms would be ideal, and it's a good idea to bring a pair of shorts along to your appointment. This is in case the therapist needs to massage your legs, it will make them much easier to get to.
What Happens After a Deep Tissue Massage?
For a few days after your deep tissue massage, it is normal to have some soreness on your body. You can help ease this by using a heat pad or an ice pack wrapped in a towel. This is often due to the pressure used in this type of massage and usually wears off quickly.
How does a Deep Tissue Massage Differ from Other Types of Massage?
The difference with a deep tissue massage is that it targets specific deep areas of muscle. With other types of massage, they tend to target areas that are closer to the surface of the body. An example of deep tissue would be the spine, and an example of the surface of the body would be the skin.
Helpful for Other Conditions
Research actually shows that deep tissue massages can help other health conditions. As we said above this type of massage helps reduce stress, in the same way it helps people with high blood pressure lower their blood pressure and their heart rate. It can also reduce arthritis symptoms and help with calf pain and increase serotonin levels for people who have fibromyalgia.