We hear the phrase, Deep Tissue, thrown around when discussing massage therapy and what type best suits the needs of the individual. But what is Deep Tissue Massage anyway and how can it benefit you? Deep Tissue Massage is a modality in massage that focuses on the deepest layers of muscle tissue, tendons, and fascia. This technique focuses on using firmer pressure along with slow, firm strokes using fingers, elbows, forearms, and the palms of the hands to reach the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue to get them to release.
Deep tissue massage can also refer to the gentle and sustained pressure targeting the myofascial layer band or sheet of connective tissue, primarily collagen, beneath the skin that attaches, stabilizes, encloses, and separates muscles and other internal organs. This modality can involve pincer technique grip of muscle between the thumb and index finger used to release trigger and tender points in the muscle , kneading, cross-fiber friction near the joint applied friction to the muscle perpendicularly to the length of fibers , pointed fingers for trigger point therapy, compression to encourage full muscular contraction by applying of gliding pressure across the muscle fiber , passive stretching and r ange of motion client rests while the therapist moves joints for lengthening the muscle and increasing flexibility.
Many of my clients come to me for this modality. It is under the Swedish Massage category as deep sustained gliding pressure. If you are interested in giving a deep tissue massage a try but are not sure whether it will be too deep or deep enough, let your therapist know. He or she should be willing to take the pressure slowly until the desired one is reached. Communication with your therapist ensures that you get what you are looking for.
Each individual has a unique style to offer and with each person comes unique energy and talent. What is Deep Tissue Massage? Apr 13 Written By Stacy Pickhardt. Book a Deep Tissue Massage. Stacy Pickhardt.
