What Is A Deep Tissue Massage

A deep tissue massage is a focused massage technique that works on the inner muscles and connective tissue below the top layer to help alleviate constant pain and discomfort in the patient. The massage technique is usually the same except that the movement is slower and focused on the areas with the maximum pain and tension. It is common for patients to experience some soreness in the massage areas for a few days after the deep tissue massage, but it subsides after some time, usually in a few days. It is also common for the first timers to experience some discomfort during the course of massage.

How Does It Work?

At places of injury in the human body, there are often adhesions or bands of painful rigid tissue that prevents circulation and normal movement of the affected person. A deep tissue massage involves the therapist applying concentrated pressure on the grain of the muscle to break down these adhesions which is why it sometimes hurts. It is important to inform the therapist to slow down or stop in case the pain is unbearable.

Deep tissue massage is especially recommended for people with chronic muscle pain or scar tissue. The results of the massage depend largely on the skill of the practitioner; so do your research and seek references before you decide on any one practitioner.

It is important to distinguish the deep tissue massage from other feel good massages like Balinese, Thai which basically help a person unwind and relax on the massage table. The deep tissue massage is usually uncomfortable and can even be painful but has medical benefits that go beyond one-time happiness.