Therapeutic deep tissue massage
What IS THE PURPOSE OF DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE?
Deep tissue massage works specifically to realign the different layers of tissue, treating muscles, tendons, ligaments and fascia. It involves applying firm pressure and slow strokes to reach deeper layers of muscle to release tension, increasing mobility and reducing chronic pain. Deep tissue massage can be both full body or partial.
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Fascia is a type of connective tissue that surrounds the bones, joints, muscles and most structures within the human body. It provides support and protection to those structures. This tissue can become restricted due to overuse, trauma, infectious agents or inactivity, often resulting in pain and muscle tension.
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Deep tissue work creates physiological changes in the tissue that then create systemic changes, by allowing layers to move independently and slide or glide upon each other, realign posture, lengthen the spine, and improve the quality of the soft tissue, creating positive changes for positive health effects.
Deep tissue massage is often recommended for people who are comfortable with a slightly more intense touch.
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DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE TECHNIQUE
Lighter pressure is generally applied to warm up and prepare the muscles for deeper pressure along the length of the muscle fiber and across, using elbow, forearm, knuckles and thumbs. You may be asked to breathe deeply when deep pressure is performed on tense areas.
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Pain isn't necessarily good, and it's not a sign that the massage will be effective. Contrarily, your body may tense up in response to pain, adding more tension and making it more difficult to reach deeper muscles.
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Health Conditions TREATED BY MASSAGE
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Deep Tissue Massage can help to treat the following conditions:
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Low back pain
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Limited mobility
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Recovery from injuries (e.g. whiplash, falls)
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Repetitive strain injury, such as carpal tunnel syndrome
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Postural problems
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Muscle tension in the hamstrings, glutes, IT band, legs, quadriceps, rhomboids, upper back
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Fibromyalgia
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Upper back or neck pain
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Should I get a deep tissue massage?
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The benefits of deep tissue massage are not just muscle and pain-related. It can lower blood pressure, heart rate and stress hormone levels. Massage is good for the mind as well as the body boosting mood and helping you relax. As with all treatments, it may not be suitable for everyone.
Total Contra-indications (cannot proceed with treatment)
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If you've had recent surgery (less than 6 months ago), fever, skin infection, under the influence of drugs or alcohol, neuritis, pregnancy in the first 14 weeks.
Contraindications that require medical approval
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Deep tissue massage may not be safe for people with blood clots, due to the risk that they may become dislodged.
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Deep muscle massage and spinal manipulation are not appropriate if you are at high risk of breaking a bone (Osteoporosis), especially if you have already had spinal fractures because pressure on the spine could potentially cause a further fracture.
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Cardiovascular condition, diabetes, epilepsy
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If you suffer from any health conditions it's essential that you consult your doctor before getting a deep tissue massage and to find out what type of massage is best for you.
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Post Massage
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After the massage, you may feel some stiffness or soreness, but it should subside within a day or two, may cause bruising and rarely, hematoma (a localized collection of blood outside of blood cells).
It’s sensible to avoid strenuous activity immediately after a massage and to not eat a heavy meal before and after.
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Drinking water also helps with muscle rehydration and to flush out the toxins that are released during the massage.