DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE

Keeping up with the ever-increasing demands of modern life can take its toll on body and mind. For persistent aches and muscle tightness, a deep tissue massage might be just what the holistic doctor ordered.

Shoulder massage

Constant stress, deadlines, workplace drama, and other daily frustrations don’t just pass through us without doing harm. These experiences can accumulate stress in our bodies, causing a buildup of muscle tension that may exacerbate or even cause physical injury. When even a Swedish massage doesn’t bring relief, it might be time to go deeper.

TARGETING DEEP TISSUES

Though some of the strokes used in deep tissue massage feel similar to Swedish massage, this technique is intended to target the much deeper layer of connective tissue and muscle throughout the body. Using slow strokes to apply pressure, the massage focuses on areas of preexisting pain and tension.

Injuries or chronic muscle tension can create adhesions, or knots, which form in the tendons, ligaments, and muscles. These knots will feel rigid and painful, and can block blood circulation, hinder range of motion, and cause inflammation and pain. When the muscles are deeply massaged, blood flow throughout the body increases, reducing inflammation and relieving pain. Repeated sessions can break up and even eliminate the presence of scar tissue surrounding the muscle.

BENEFITS OF DEEP MUSCLE MASSAGE

Deep tissue massage usually focuses on a specific problem, such as chronic muscle pain or injury rehabilitation and can provide relief from the following complaints:

• Low back pain

• Upper neck or back pain

• Limited mobility

• Recovery from injuries (whiplash, falls)

• Repetitive strain injuries (carpal tunnel syndrome)

• Postural problems

• Muscle tension in the legs, buttocks, and lower back

• Osteoarthritic pain and sciatica

• Sports concerns of athletes; tennis elbow

• Piriformis syndrome

• Fibromyalgia

WHAT TO EXPECT

At the beginning of the massage, oil or lotion is applied and then lighter pressure is used to warm up and prep the muscles. Then you will begin to receive stimulation in the deep muscle and connective tissue from the therapist’s hands, elbows, forearms, fingertips, and/or knuckles in order to relieve the tense trouble spots in your body. You will be asked to relax and breathe deeply during this time, allowing your body to release tension and heal. The two main techniques used are known as stripping—deep, gliding pressure along the length of the muscle fibers using the elbow, forearm, knuckles, and thumbs—and friction, pressure applied across the grain of a muscle to release adhesions and realign tissue fibers.

WHAT IS ROLFING?

Unlike massage, which focuses on relaxation and relief of muscle discomfort, the goal of rolfing—also known as structural integration—is improving body alignment and functioning. These goals are achieved through tissue manipulation and myofascial release. The modality is named for its creator, American biochemist Dr. Ida P. Rolf, and its benefits include improved athletic ability, relief for TMJ and chronic back pain, improved posture and spine health, and improved asthma and breathing in general.

At certain points during the massage, you may feel discomfort or even pain as the massage therapist works on areas where you have deep knots or a buildup of scar tissue. You should always let the masseuse know when you’re feeling pain, so he or she can adjust their technique or further prep tense muscles. Pain isn’t necessarily good, and it shouldn’t be taken as a sign that the massage is working. Your body will typically tense up in response to pain, making it harder for the therapist to reach deep muscles. Some stiffness and soreness for a day or two following the massage is normal.

Calf massage