A deep tissue massage is a special massage technique that uses slow movements and steady pressure to target the inner layers of the muscles, deep below the surface. It is primarily used to treat musculoskeletal problems and to aid recovery from vigorous physical activity or sports injuries, but it is also applied more widely to improve the body, mind and spirit of anyone receiving the treatment. In this guide, we'll take a look at all the benefits that deep tissue massages offer, the most common side effects to consider, and the treatments offered at Jasmine & Physiotherapy.
Where did Deep Tissue Massage originate?
Some historians believe that the history of deep tissue massage can be traced back to Ancient Egypt. But in more modern times, it was first used in the 19th century, when Canadian doctors used the technique to treat whiplash sufferers. From there, the technique spread to the United States, where it gained real popularity when it was promoted in the book Muscles: Your Invisible Bonds, published in 1949. Today, it is now a practice commonly used by massage therapists, therapists, and sports scientists. around the world, to help condition and recover the muscles that help us move and stay active every day.
What are the benefits of Deep Tissue Massage?
It's easy to think that the benefits of deep tissue massage are limited to just rejuvenating or repairing tired and strained muscles. But that's only part of the story: a good treatment can help you feel good from head to toe, inside and out.
Stress relief
Deep tissue massages help reduce stress in two ways: they stimulate the release of hormones that naturally relax the body, and they are also a good opportunity to relax in a calm and peaceful environment.
Pain reduction
Chronic pain is relieved by deep tissue massage, as it releases underlying tension within the muscles, particularly in the neck and back; massages can in some cases be more effective than medical intervention in these areas.
Lowers blood pressure and heart rate
The reduced tension that deep tissue massage provides leads to a natural decrease in blood pressure, also leading to a decrease in heart rate.
Softening damaged tissues and increasing flexibility
Improved blood circulation means that deep tissue massages can relieve localized stiffness and pain that can often affect the damaged tissue and ensure that movement is not as restricted in that particular area.
Reduction of arthritis symptoms
All of the above benefits can be transformative for arthritis sufferers: less tension, pain relief, ease of movement (especially in the joints) and, as a result, improved sleep patterns.
Rehabilitates damaged muscles
Deep tissue massages stretch the muscles to their full extent, removing any tightness from them and also releasing toxins that can weigh them down and make them feel tired.
Common side effects of Deep Tissue Massage
It is worth noting that, as deep tissue massage can be a relatively intensive treatment, there may be some side effects. Of course, how people are affected will vary from person to person, but it's worth keeping the following in mind:
Lingering pain
Since the massage strongly stimulates the muscles, it is common to experience soreness during or immediately after the treatment. These should disappear within a few days..
Muscle pain or fatigue
Working through the muscles means they will be too relaxed and can then feel tired or cause pain. As with the persistent pain above, these symptoms should disappear within a few days.
Headache or migraine
Occasionally, people suffer from headaches or migraines after a treatment. This can be caused by the head being in an unusual position during the massage, or the treatment taking place close to the head (ie the neck or upper back).
Feeling tired or sleepy
The high levels of relaxation that a massage can stimulate means it's easy to feel tired or sleepy afterwards, but after a good night's sleep most people feel great again.
Heat or redness of the skin
A steady focus on a particular area of ​​the body during the treatment means that the skin between the muscle and the masseuse's hands can easily become hot and red during the treatment, although this is an indication that the muscles underneath are getting the stretch they need.
Nausea
With so many toxins being flushed out of the body, feeling nauseous is a natural and understandable symptom, easily treated by drinking lots of water afterwards.
Aggravation of old injuries
If you have significant injuries from the past, a deep tissue massage can affect those areas again. Be sure to let your massage therapist know about any of these issues before starting treatment so they can treat those areas carefully.
Take care of yourself
by Jasmine Spa & Physiotherapy 💚