Benefits of Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage is a form of massage therapy that is used to realign the deeper layers of the muscles and connective tissue—addressing and resolving underlying problems that can lead to chronic pain and stiffness.

It differs from lighter techniques like Swedish massage in that it uses deeper, more specific methods to get at the root of muscular and connective tissue issues.

Benefits of Deep Tissue Massage

When a person experiences ongoing stiffness, tension, or has a sustained injury to their muscles, tendons and ligaments, a band of rigid tissue called an adhesion (also commonly referred to as “knots”). While most adhesions are relatively minor, severe cases can block circulation, limit movement and flexibility, and be extremely painful. An effective way to address these adhesions is through deep tissue massage treatments.

Adhesions, tension and stiffness can be related to a range of chronic conditions, and patients have found deep tissue massage to be effective in addressing a number of issues, including:

Muscle tension

  • Chronic pain, spasm or stiffness
  • TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) issues
  • Inflexibility
  • Constricted blood flow
  • Sciatica
  • Muscle, tendon and ligament injuries
  • High levels of stress
  • Fibromyalgia

After receiving a deep tissue massage, there may be some soreness or stiffness to your muscles that generally doesn’t last more than a day. Ensure that you drink plenty of water and to avoid strenuous exercise the day after your massage in order to help your muscles heal. Your massage therapist may recommend that you ice certain areas of your body, or that you take a hot bath—depending on what you’re being treated for.

 

Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals (ABMP)