What is a Deep Tissue Massage?
The term ‘deep tissue massage’ sends shivers down many people’s spines. It’s often thought of as a painful and uncomfortable experience that takes days to recover from. But what you may not know is that deep tissue massage isn’t as intimidating as you think. Sure, it’s more intense than a relaxing Swedish massage, but when you’re under the care of Registered Massage Therapist, you’ll feel minimal discomfort with lasting results.
Exactly What is a Deep Tissue Massage Anyway?
As its name suggests, deep tissue massage doesn’t tiptoe over your muscles. It uses slower, more forceful strokes to target the deeper layers of muscles and connective tissue. Starting superficially, your therapist will ease into your tight and knotted muscles, allowing them to “melt” and permitting deeply held tension to be released.
Deep tissue massage is more focused than many other types of massage, as your therapist will work on a specific joint, muscle, or muscle group.
A Deep Tissue Massage Shouldn’t be Painful
If it doesn’t hurt, it’s not working, right? Wrong. Despite what you may have heard, deep tissue massage shouldn’t make you tense your muscles, clench your jaw, or curl your toes. If this is your body’s response to what’s happening, it’s not being done properly. Applying too much pressure or applying it improperly can actually exacerbate an injury or create a new one.
That’s why it’s so important to make sure your massage is with a Registered Massage Therapist. RMTs are trained to accurately assess your condition and carry out the proper deep tissue treatment. And because everyone has a different comfort level, your therapist will check in frequently and adjust the pressure as necessary. Please note that any initial discomfort felt from the deep tissue work will lessen within a few moments as the muscles begin to naturally relax.
It’s Not Just for Athletes
Deep tissue massage is ideal for those suffering from injury, chronic muscle tension (lower back tightness, sore shoulders, or a stiff neck are common examples of this), or for anyone who places strenuous demands on their body.
The techniques are adaptable to a wide range of conditions and specific needs, making it a profoundly relaxing, effective and therapeutic way to promote healing deep within your body.
A quality deep tissue massage:
- Reduces pain and helps the body heal more quickly
- Relaxes stiff muscles to help restore pain-free movement
- Improves range of motion and flexibility
- Encourages the body to flush toxins
- Lowers your blood pressure
- Reduces stress hormones
- Reduces heart rate
- Boosts your mood by triggering the release of oxytocin and serotonin
Now that we’ve cleared up some of the most common misconceptions, are you wondering if deep tissue massage is right for you? Get in touch with us and one of our Registered Massage Therapists will be happy to answer any questions you may have. You can call, email or visit us in person at our downtown Victoria BC massage clinic.