Deep Tissue Massage is a massage technique that focuses on the deeper layers of muscle tissue. It aims to release the chronic patterns of tension in the body through slow strokes and deep finger pressure on the contracted areas, either following or going across the fiber's of the muscles, tendons and fascia.
Deep tissue massage is used to release chronic muscle tension through slower strokes and more direct deep pressure or friction applied across the grain of the muscles not with the grain. Deep tissue massage helps to break up and eliminate scar tissue. Deep tissue massage usually focuses on more specific areas and may cause some soreness during or right after the massage. However, if the massage is done correctly you should feel better than ever within a day or two.
Why get a Deep Tissue Massage?
It feels good and it is beneficial to your health. When muscles are stressed, they block oxygen and nutrients, leading to inflammation that builds up toxins in the muscle tissue. A deep-tissue massage helps loosen muscle tissues, release toxins from muscles and get blood and oxygen circulating properly. Because many toxins are released, it's important to drink plenty of water after a deep-tissue session to help eliminate these toxins from the body.
What is the purpose of Deep Tissue Massage?
The purpose is to "unstick" the fibers of a muscle while releasing deeply-held patterns of tension, removing toxins, while relaxing and soothing the muscle. It is both corrective and therapeutic.
Summary: Deep tissue massages are reserved for more localized massage and focus on the deeper muscles of the soft tissue. A Masseuse will usually start by massaging the upper layers of a joint, muscle or muscle group and then work down to the deeper tissue. If this technique is not used, muscles may tighten to protect the area and inflammation may lead to damage of the area. Techniques often used during this type of massage include a flat elbow, opposing thumbs, the heel of the hand and the use of the forearm.
Watch this series of videos to learn more about deep tissue massage. Begin with our expert’s introduction to deep tissue massage and get tips on massaging the body from head to toe. If you are having trouble with the muscles of your face, watch our videos on expert deep tissue massage of the face. Get tips on using forearm pressure and how to use your elbow on areas such as the lower back and the spine. Watch as our expert gives an introduction to different accessories used during deep tissue massage. Also learn how to use the Illiotibial bands on the legs as well as other methods such as the forearm on the leg muscles. Learn new methods of massage as you watch these expert videos.
