Deep layers of muscles and ligaments are targeted with deep tissue massage techniques. The strokes used in the process are slower and more forceful than other massage techniques, report Mayo Clinic doctors. Deep tissue massage typically is employed to treat injuries, athletic muscle strain and damage to connective tissues.
Slow strokes
Massage therapists typically relax the patient with a mild massage initially to avoid tension. Patients must be as relaxed as possible to allow the therapist to reach the deeper layers where the pain is located. Using his hands, fingers, elbows or the palms of his hands, the massage therapist pushes deeply to the affected area. Slow, even strokes are applied across the length of the ligament. Pressure is applied until he can feel the knot causing the pain. After the ligament has been rubbed along its length, the therapist reverses the stroke to rub the muscle or ligament across its length.
Myofascial Release
Myofascial release is another technique that requires massage therapists to locate tightness deep within the layers of tissue. Fibromyalgia sufferers often feel pain resulting from tight, stiff muscles and tendons. The therapist presses deep into the affected area to locate the pain and uses both hands to stretch the ligament. The therapist holds the muscle or ligament for a short time at each end. He releases the muscle and repeats the stretch until the tightness is gone. Myofascial deep tissue stretching can be used for athletes as well when the athlete can't get a complete stretch on the deep muscles that have tightened up after an event.
Vigorous Kneading
Vigorous kneading deep in the layers of tissue can allow the therapist to break up knots and scar tissue and separate inflamed tendons. Quick, short and deep kneading also can provide additional irritation to an injured tendon or ligament to allow the body to increase circulation and begin natural healing in the area. The therapist typically uses just his fingers to explore the deep layers of ligaments where the friction is needed. The thumb is used to grasp the backside of the inflammation or knot and hold it in place, while the fingers vigorously rub the area. Once the knot has been palpated, the therapist usually moves his fingers around the adjoining tendons to find other knots or tight spots. Vigorous deep tissue massage techniques should be performed for short, one- or two-minute periods to avoid creating additional pain and inflammation.
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