The term deep tissue massage is generally used to refer to body massage therapy. It requires a deep level of pressure aimed at reducing and releasing chronic muscle pain and tension. The deep tissue massage action places emphasis on applying the required deeper pressure on muscle tissue, tendons, and fascia. Fascia is the protective layer that surrounds the muscles, bones, and body joints.
Research Studies On Deep Tissue Massage
One study carried out by the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine shows that there was a reduction in the rate of blood pressure following a 45-60 minute session of deep tissue massage. Other studies conducted by the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry showed that deep tissue massage reduces the level of stress hormones and heart rates. Deep tissue massage also helps to boost a person’s mood and relaxation through the release and triggering of serotonin and oxytocin in the body.
Deep Tissue Massage Promotes Healing
Deep tissue massage focuses on the process of realigning the deeper muscle and body connective layers. It has significant benefits in facilitating the reduction of body aches and chronic pain. It also helps to eliminate sore shoulders, leg muscle cramps, and tightness, lower back pain, as well as upper back and neck pain. Deep tissue massage applies similar massage strokes used in Swedish massage therapies, but the movement is slower and the applied pressure is deeper and stronger.
How Does Deep Tissue Massage Work?
Often when there is chronic muscle tension or some type of body injury, there are often adhesions such as rigidity of tissues, chronic pain associated with tendons and ligaments. Adhesions in the surrounding injured muscles can cause blockages in blood circulation. This causes pain and produces inflammation and limited muscle motion. The process of deep tissue massage helps to physically break down the formed adhesions. Doing so not only leads to pain elimination but also a restored range of motion.
Who Can Benefit From Deep Tissue Massage?
Deep tissue massage can benefit a whole lot of patients. It can be used as an alternative method to treat people experiencing the following conditions:
- Chronic pain
- Lower back pain
- Limited mobility in parts of the body
- Injuries from falls, sports, or whiplash
- Repetitive strain injuries resulting from carpal tunnel syndrome
- Postural problems
- Osteoarthritis pain
- Sciatica pain
- Piriformis syndrome
- Muscle tensions
Deep Tissue Massage Career Choice
This is an exciting career direction if you’re a new high school graduate or have earned your GED. It’s also a great choice for those wanting to switch their current line of work to a new opportunity in the different areas of massage therapy.
