Benefits of Getting a Deep Tissue Massage

Stress has become a never-ending hustle for 75 out of 100 adults, affecting both their physical and mental health, which leads to less productivity and more susceptibility to illness. 

However, it is up to you to avoid making it an everyday problem. Try deep tissue massage once; it is the most proven technique to elevate mood and reduce stress.

Deep tissue massage involves deep work on the muscles, joints, and pressure points to release underlying stress and lymphatic fluids, which helps reduce stress and chronic pain, increases mobility, and improves blood circulation, scar tissue management, and body posture.

But there are more benefits to deep tissue massage. Continue reading to find out more.

What Makes Up Deep Tissue Massage?

Deep tissue massage traces its roots to various cultures, including Chinese, Egyptian, and Greek practices. However, its modern evolution took place in the United States.

What sets it apart is the intense pressure applied to reach deeper muscle layers, targeting musculoskeletal issues.

Deep tissue massage breaks up adhesions and stiff tissue bands in muscles, tendons, and ligaments. 

These adhesions primarily cause pain, irritation, reduced mobility, and decreased blood circulation. 

The massage therapist targets these concerns while promoting relaxation and healing through sustained pressure and slow strokes.

Here is how a deep tissue massage is performed.

• The process begins with a discussion with the massage therapist about medical history, current health status, areas of pain or tension, and specific goals for the massage. 
• You have to lie down on a massage table, commonly unclothed or partially clothed, with draping provided for privacy. 
• The therapist applies massage oil or lotion to your skin to reduce friction.
• The massage session starts with light pressure kneading, effleurage (long, sweeping strokes), and friction to increase circulation and relax the muscle tissue.
• The therapist also uses trigger point therapy to release knots and trigger points on the muscle spasm area. 
• Stretching and range of motion techniques are incorporated to loosen tight muscles further and enhance flexibility.
• Towards the end of the session, the therapist gradually reduces pressure to allow your body to relax with soothing techniques.

Benefits of Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage provides relaxation and boosts overall health. Consider it more than a luxury because it offers desired relief in demanding lives.

Here are the critical benefits this massage offers.

1. Stress Reduction

Deep tissue massage reduces stress by lowering cortisol levels. The firm pressure and slow strokes stimulate relaxation, leading to a significant 31% reduction in cortisol after just one session. 

It induces a sense of calm, allowing the mind to relax and rejuvenate. This impact on stress hormones makes deep tissue massage a powerful stress-reduction therapy.

2. Alleviation of Chronic Pain

A standout aspect of deep tissue massage is its effectiveness in addressing chronic pain. 

Whether dealing with persistent back pain, tension headaches, or muscle soreness, the focused pressure targets deep layers and provides relief.

In fact, research shows this therapy significantly decreases pain and soreness by 40%. 

3. Improves Blood Circulation

The intentional strokes of deep tissue massage help enhance blood flow to the affected areas.

Deep tissue massage enhances blood circulation through deliberate strokes to increase blood flow to all body parts. 

The improved blood circulation ensures better delivery of oxygen and nutrients, aiding faster injury recovery and reducing inflammation. 

4. Breakdown of Scar Tissue

Deep tissue massage offers a non-invasive solution for those dealing with scar tissue from injuries or surgeries. 

It heals scar tissue by reducing knots and increasing tissue elasticity. This procedure helps to restore mobility and prevent the creation of new scar tissue. 

Studies have shown that 60-90 minutes of deep-tissue massage remodels collagen fibers, resulting in better tissue alignment and flexibility.

5. Increases Mobility

Stiff joints and limited mobility can impact daily activities. Deep tissue massage targets specific muscles and connective tissues, including fascia. 

Fascia is a connective tissue surrounding bones, muscles, and organs to regulate mobility.

The massage relieves tension, breaks down adhesions, and improves flexibility via sustained pressure and careful strokes. 

6. Posture Improvement

Modern lifestyles often lead to poor posture, causing strain on muscles and joints.

Studies show that 80% of adults, on average, suffer from back stiffness and neck pain due to improper postural habits.

Deep tissue massage can assist in releasing tension in muscles supporting the spine to maintain a better posture, which may reduce the risk of chronic pain associated with poor alignment.

Things to Consider

To guarantee a safe and effective deep tissue massage, some factors must be considered before proceeding. Adverse effects may occur if you fail to take proper precautions. 

Here are some things to consider while getting a deep-tissue massage.

1. Communication with the Massage Therapist

Communicating with your massage therapist makes the session profitable and enjoyable. Expressing your preferences, pain thresholds, and areas of concern before the session will be helpful. 

It will help the therapist to customize the massage to your specific needs and maximize benefits.

Lack of communication with the therapist can result in excessive pressure, causing discomfort or injury.

2. Hydration

After a deep tissue massage, proper hydration is essential. The increased blood flow and the toxin release may lead to slight dehydration. 

Drinking plenty of water helps to overcome the problem and promotes overall well-being. 

Moreover, inadequate hydration after a massage makes the pain worse.

3. Post-Massage Care

While deep tissue massage provides numerous benefits, some soreness may occur afterward. It is a natural response of the body while releasing tension. 

Ignoring post-massage care instructions can prolong the discomfort.

Applying ice or heat, a warm bath, and gentle stretching can help alleviate post-massage discomfort.

4. Gradual Progression

If you are new to deep tissue massage, start with shorter sessions and gradually progress to longer ones.

Start with a 30-40 minute session and increase it to 60 or up to 90 minutes.

It allows your muscles to adapt to the increased pressure and minimizes the risk of soreness.

Conclusion:

While deep tissue massage has many scientifically proven benefits, it may not suit everyone. 

Individuals with specific medical issues and pregnant women must consult with their doctor before receiving deep tissue massage.

Contact Lemon Massage Therapy if you are seeking the best deep-tissue massage in Des Moines.