Clients frequently ask me questions about Deep Tissue
massage. What exactly is Deep Tissue Massage? How does it work? Do I need it?
Will I benefit from it? How painful is it? As with any type of massage the first and most important
goal is to find a qualified and experienced therapist, who will be able to
asses and meet your needs. She/he will rule out contra indications ( such as
fever, recent injuries/fractures, tumors, blood clots, heart disease, cancer,
open wounds or otherwise compromised skin to name a few ). I suggest you always
check with your physician to be cleared for Deep Tissue Massage.
The goal of Deep Tissue Massage is to re-align
the fibers and deeper layers of your muscles, as well as surrounding connective
tissues. Injury, toxins, overuse and stress can cause adhesions in your
tissue. Those appear rigid and rope like to touch, may present painful and
oftentimes limit range of motion. Deep Tissue Massage will address these
adhesions through slow and focused pressure. Depending on treated area, the
therapist will use finger tips, knuckles, palms, elbows and forearms. Some
therapists may utilize tools to increase pressure, however I prefer manual
contact, allowing me to truly tune into my client. Aside from client's verbal
feedback I check for breathing patterns, spontaneous sweating, change in muscle
tonus etc. Adhesions may cause or contribute to conditions such as muscle
tension, repetitive strain/injury, limited range of motion, posture mal-alignment,
joint dysfunction and more. Deep Tissue Massage breaks up the adhesions,
restoring circulation and nutrient exchange. It is important to be well hydrated
on day of treatment to allow optimal elimination of toxins released into lymph
system, particularly after the session. A certain degree of discomfort is to be
expected during Deep Tissue Massage, but I strongly oppose inflicting great
levels of pain at any point, risking flare up of tissue. In my 20 years of
experience I have concluded the phrase "no pain, no gain" simply does
not make sense, nor does it achieve better results. On the contrary, a client
who trusts you, will ultimately be more relaxed and actually allow deeper work
than a client, who is guarded and involuntarily tightens muscles to avoid pain.
I always incorporate Hot Stone Massage to increase circulation and soothe your
stressed nervous system, bringing about balance and healing on all levels. Deep
Tissue Massage will benefit clients with chronic conditions and pain, breaking
the cycle of trauma to tissue that never quite seems to heal or function
optimally. |