If you’re looking for a massage therapy that can help alleviate chronic aches and sports-related muscle pain, deep tissue massage is what you need! These massages are highly recommended for muscle rehabilitation and recovery.
Deep tissue massage is primarily used to alleviate pain caused by musculoskeletal issues, by applying sustained pressure through deep and slow strokes. It targets the underlying connective tissues and inner layer of the muscles to break up the scar tissue, which forms as a result of an injury. This massage technique reduces inflammation and increases blood flow to promote faster healing.
Can deep tissue massages treat muscular problems?
Unlike other massage therapies that focus on relaxation, deep tissue massage focuses on treating muscle pain and reducing stiffness, in addition to helping you unwind mentally; it offers both psychological and physical benefits.
Additionally, a study involving 59 individuals found that deep tissue massage was effective in reducing chronic lower back pain. The authors of the study preferred the effects of massage therapy over the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Deep tissue massage also helps with the following conditions:
- Limited mobility
- Muscle tension in hamstrings, quadriceps, upper back, IT band and glutes
- Recovery from whiplash and falls
- Postural problems
- Back pain associated with osteoarthritis and Sciatica
- Strain injury from repetitive motion, like carpal tunnel syndrome
- Tennis elbow
- Plantar fasciitis
- Fibromyalgia
- Upper back or neck pain
Moreover, a research involving 237 participants found that massage therapy significantly improved the range of motions of the shoulder—specifically the flexion and abduction.
What to expect from a deep tissue massage
People often confuse deep tissue massage as a stronger version of Swedish massage therapy. Even though both techniques use the same strokes, they vary greatly in terms of the pressure applied.
Deep tissue massage breaks down adhesions—such as bands of rigid tissues—and muscle knots. This can disrupt your circulation and result in inflammation and limited range of motion. Therefore, it’s not uncommon for you to feel sore or stiffness after the massage—but it should subside within some days.
The massage begins with lighter pressure that prepares and warms up the muscles; specific techniques are applied after that:
- Stripping: The massage therapist uses elbow, knuckles, forearms and thumbs to apply deep, gliding pressure along the muscle fibers.
- Friction: Pressure is applied across the muscle grains to realign tissue fibers and release adhesions.
Drinking water after the massage can help get rid of the metabolic waste from the affected tissues.
Book A Deep Tissue Massage With Us, Today!
We offer deep tissue massage in Edmonton that targets your trouble areas and help you heal on the inside. Furthermore, our Massage Therapy and Wellness Studio also offers prenatal massage, hot stone massage and craniosacral therapy.
Contact us today for a relaxing massage experience.
