How Does Deep Tissue Massage Differ From
Almost every country has its own variety of massages and each of them have their own uses and needs. For example, Thai massages and Swedish massages are based on simple but useful principles that gently work out kinks in the body and in the muscles. Indian post-pregnancy massages are designed to redistribute body fat and improve muscle tone. These simple massages are generally limited to the superficial muscles of the body and they can have beneficial effects. However, there are massage techniques that have been formulated to have a treatment effect on the body like deep tissue massage.
How does deep tissue massage work?
Deep tissue massages are a slightly different variety of massages that are generally used to stretch muscle fascia. They have a medical value and are not recommended as a general procedure. As the procedure works out deep muscles bundles and ligaments, it is particularly recommended for specific problems like osteoarthritis, muscle strains, fibromyalgia, back pain, repetitive strain injury etc.
• The massage focuses on the connective tissue of the body and produces changes in the muscle tone and posture of the body. The massage procedure is designed to loosen up layers of connective tissue that cannot be located with conventional massage techniques. The technique also releases underlying facial adhesions, chronic muscle contractions, muscle stresses and tensions.
• Typically, it uses five to six specific strokes that are applied with knuckles elbows, forearms along with hands, ankles, feet etc to work out the muscle bundles that are located deep inside the body. The speed of the strokes is slower and is exerted with deeper pressure to ensure that the deeper muscle bundles are worked out.
• Conventional massage techniques do not cause body aches but there is a chance that the deep tissue massage will cause muscle aches. However, a point to note is that pain thresholds vary from person to person. Most people find the process comfortable but gentle aches and pains are common. These sensations will subside with time. If you find the process uncomfortable, you have to tell the therapist and he will modify his strokes. Ice packs can also be used immediately after the massage to soothe and relax the area.
Safety Disclaimer
You might be perfectly healthy but it is advisable to consult with a medical professional before starting treatment. Deep tissue massages have many benefits but they can also cause a slight ache in deep seated muscles. This variety of massage is not recommended for pregnant women, osteoporosis patients, diabetics, patients with bleeding and clotting disorders etc. It is recommended that you get a complete medical evaluation and check-up done before starting with any variety of deep tissue massage.
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