Deep tissue massage referrs to a specialized style of massage focusing on the connective tissue of the body. It is called “deep tissue massage” not because the pressure is deep, although it sometimes is, but because the therapist is working on tissues located deep in the body, trying to stretch layers of connective tissue below the surface of the skin.
Functions
Deep tissue massage releases connective tissue and breaks adhesions. Connective tissue is the fibrous material that surrounds and supports muscles. Adhesions are scar tissue that forms when muscles are in spasm and no longer slide easily over each other. Releasing connective tissue enables muscles to stretch and makes them softer and more flexible. This also changes your ability to move, increasing the range of movement of your joints. Deep tissue massage improves posture because it balances the muscles on all sides of the spinal column.
Effects
Deep tissue massage resets muscle spindles, the nerves that tell your brain where you are in space and whether your muscles are relaxed or tight. They can cease firing properly when muscles are chronically contracted and not able to relax. Deep tissue massage decreases muscle spasm and reduces the pain in trigger points as well as relieving muscle pain in general. Blood circulation increases, resulting in improved nutrition to muscle cells, and lymph circulation increases, removing toxins and metabolic waste.
Indications
Deep tissue massage is indicated for chronic pain that is muscular in origin; muscle spasm, which is a temporary shortening and tightening of the muscle; and contracture, which is chronic shortness and tightness of a muscle. Deep tissue massage also improves posture and movement, so it is recommended for low back pain and neck and shoulder pain due to poor posture or sitting for long periods of time. It reduces inflammation in muscles damaged by repetitive use. It can help you increase range of motion, making movement easier. It is especially beneficial for athletes, because of the increased range of movement.
Considerations
Do not have deep tissue massage if you have a blood clot or history of blood clots, or if you have an infection or fever, if you have a recent injury that is not improving, if you have had surgery recently. If you are unsure whether the massage is advisable, consult your physician and massage therapist. To locate a well-trained deep tissue massage therapist, contact your local massage school for a recommendation or make an appointment with an instructor. Ask your athletic friends for recommendations, as many athletes have regular deep tissue massages. Or, contact a local pain clinic or chiropractor for a referral.
References
- "Mosby's Fundamentals of Therapeutic Massage"; Sandy Fritz; 2008
- "Theory and Practice of Therapeutic Massage;" Mark Beck ; 2005
- "Deep Tissue Massage, Revised: A Visual Guide to Techniques"; Art Riggs, Thomas W. Myers ; 2007
Member Comments