“Break down those knots…”
Deep tissue is a type of massage therapy that involves applying more firm pressure and slow strokes to reach deeper layers of the muscle, breaking up scar tissue and break down those “knots” that often lead to poor circulation, inflammation and as a result create chronic aches and pain.
You might find that at certain times during the massage, you might feel some discomfort or even some pain, as the therapist uses more pressure to work on areas of more tension, and your body in response might tense up to compensate thus it’s important to communicate if you feel any pain during the massage as the therapist can adjust the technique.
Despite the discomfort the benefits far out-way the temporary pain.
Deep tissue can help with specific problems, such as chronic muscle pain, injury rehabilitation, and the following conditions:
- Low back pain
- Limited mobility
- Recovery from injuries (e.g. whiplash, falls)
- Repetitive strain injury (carpal tunnel syndrome)
- Postural problems
- Muscle tension in the hamstring, glutes, IT band, legs, quadriceps, rhomboids, upper back
- Osteoarthritis pain
- Sciatica
- Piriformis syndrome
- Tennis elbow
- Fibromyalgia
- Upper back and neck pain
Note: If you have blood clots or are at risk of forming blood clots, it’s essential that you consult your doctor before getting a deep tissue massage.
If you’ve had recent surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or have another medical condition, it’s wise to check with your doctor before starting massage therapy.
Massage should not be done directly over bruises, inflamed or infected skin, skin rashes, unhealed or open wounds, tumours, abdominal hernia, fragile bones, or areas of recent fractures.