Massage is the act of using the hands for rubbing, manipulating and pressing on the muscles, ligaments, skin and tendons to relax or relieve pressure. A technique called deep tissue massage utilizes forceful, slower strokes across the grain of the muscles to target deeper levels of connective tissue and muscles, report Mayo Clinic doctors. There are a number of benefits that can be gleaned from deep tissue massage that typically is used for athletes and those with damaged muscles.
Pain Relief
While the strong pressure exerted on the muscles during deep tissue massage can create soreness, the technique is used to treat chronic muscle pain. The rubbing decreases inflammation and helps to break up scar tissue formed deep within the body that can be a source of chronic discomfort. Therapists at the Sports Injury Clinic report that deep tissue massage can move waste products stored in the muscles that cause pain. Knots often form deep in the muscles and can only be reached by the extreme pressure involved with deep tissue massage. Additionally, endorphins and seratonin, natural pain relievers, are released from the kneading technique.
Stress Relief
Therapists at Yoga Health Benefits report that often stress is held deep in the connective tissues and requires massage therapists to use their fingers, elbows and feet to apply enough pressure to reach the points causing the stress. Often massage therapists report that they touch on points deep in the body that hold fears and anxieties when they apply deep pressure.
Posture
Good posture can be restored when the deep muscles and connective tissues are loosened up. The bones and muscles become more aligned and allow for strengthened connections required for balance and posture. Misalignment also can cause back pain, sciatica and carpal tunnel syndrome that can be relieved from good posture as a result of deep tissue massage therapy.
Flexibility
Deep tissue massage can improve flexibility by loosening up tight tender points. Muscles and joints that have become stiff from overuse, injury or a disease such as fibromyalgia, become more relaxed after being manipulated and left to heal, allowing patients more mobility and range of motion. Hardened inflexible muscles can be massaged and softened through the deep continuous slow motions applied in deep tissue treatments. Massage can stretch tight muscles that normally are not reached through normal stretching routines, a valuable benefit to athletes.
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