DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE

In a wide meaning, Deep Tissue Massage refers to any type of massage which accesses the deeper layers of muscle and tissue to relieve tension in them, thus naturally involving deeper pressure. To achieve the pressure, the therapist usually uses fingertips, thumbs, knuckles, palms, forearms and elbows. Some Asian countries even see therapists stand on a lying client and use their feet to give better pressure. Any massage therapist such as Swedish Massage therapist, Aromatherapist, Reflexologist, Thai Massage therapist, Tui Na practitioner and Shiatsu practitioner may claim they offer Deep Tissue Massage as long as they can apply deeper pressure in some degree.

Deep Tissue Massage is effective to chronically tense and contracted areas such as neck, shoulders and lower back. The techniques are also used by advanced therapists for muscle spasm, limited mobility, postural problems, repetitive strain injury and recovery from injury. Most Deep Tissue Massage techniques are applied at a slower pace and with more pressure where needed. The sessions are often quite intense as a result of the deliberate, focused work, and you may feel some discomfort during the session. The depth required to address specific problem areas varies considerably between clients/patients. It is very important for you to speak up and let your therapist know when you want them to reduce the pressure. The pain level should never exceed 7 out of maximum 10 at any time. People often feel sore for one to two days after Deep Tissue Massage, followed by a great relief afterwards.

In western countries, Deep Tissue Massage techniques are gained in addition to the basic massage skills such as Swedish Massage and Aromatherapy. A dedicated set of techniques and strokes of Deep Tissue Massage are usually learnt in a short course lasting only two to three days (see more details in Qualifications page). In the event that a Deep Tissue Massage therapist were to keep causing you pain by hitting your spine or any other bones with their hands or elbow, it would be a sign that they are not properly trained. Be aware that some massage therapists offer Deep Tissue Massage without having undertaken proper additional training, possibly just by having completed self-learning on Youtube etc. So always make sure that your therapist is qualified in Deep Tissue Massage.

Learn more about Deep Tissue Massage from:

• healthline