Is Deep Tissue Massage Therapy Right For Everyone?

While traditional massage techniques are usedbe more helpful in the treatment and pain relief of
primarily for relaxation, deep tissue massage isdiseases such as fibromyalgia and osteoarthritis
designed specifically to reduce knots and chronicthan traditional methods, such as medication,
tension through the realignment of the body'sphysical therapy, exercise or chiropractic methods.
deepest layers of tissue. This type of massageWhile traditional massage therapy is administered
also works to eliminate scar tissue and reduceprimarily for relaxation, deep tissue massage is
inflammation. Because it addresses deeper layersalso used to:
of tendons, fascia and muscle tissue, it is•Decreased mobility;
particularly helpful in the neck, shoulders and lower•The effects of chronic pain;
back, which are often the place where•Pain caused by injury or strained muscles;
stress-related ailments begin.•Poor posture;
The strokes used are applied against the natural•Stress and tension-related muscle spasms.
grain of the muscles, whereas traditional massageAt some point during your deep tissue massage,
techniques are administered in the same direction.your therapist may ask you to take deep breaths
Some people claim to experience slight sorenesswhile he or she targets a particular area using
or discomfort as a result of the more deliberatetheir knuckles, elbows, hands, fingertips and
pressure used during deep tissue massage. Andforearms to apply the pressure. Remember to
although this soreness may last for a couple ofdrink water after your deep tissue massage to
days, the total relaxation and pain reliefflush out the potentially toxic waste that is
experienced far outweighs any temporaryreleased via the procedure. Therapists also
discomfort that may result.recommend that you avoid heavy meals prior to
When you experience chronic tension or injury,your session.
bands of rigid, painful tissue - or adhesions - formSo, is deep tissue massage therapy the right
which can block circulation, limit your movementsolution for everyone? Because of the intensity of
and cause pain and inflammation. This type of athe pressure used during this type of massage, it
massage works to break down these adhesionsis not the right treatment for anyone who has
to restore movement and reduce pain.the following conditions:
Most people experience some slight pain or•Have skin disease, open wounds, bruises or a
discomfort during certain parts of this massage,rash;
so it is important that you advise your therapist•Have just undergone any type of surgery or
of any such feelings that are beyond a tolerableexperienced recent fractures;
level so that he or she can adjust their technique.•Recently had radiation or chemotherapy;
The stiffness or pain you experience during or•Are prone to blood clots, as they may be
after a deep tissue massage will subside within 1 -dislodged;
2 days; during which time your therapist may•Are pregnant (unless they opt for a prenatal
recommend the application of ice to the affectedmassage);
area.•Have inflamed skin, tumors or abdominal
Deep tissue massage therapy has been proven tohernia.