DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE FACTFILE

Massage therapy relieves pain from injuries, stress and muscular tension through the manipulation of soft tissues of the body.  Massage treatment enables the body’s recovery and healing process from some acute and chronic conditions.  Additionally it enhances lymph and blood circulation, supplying fresh oxygen and nutrients to the recovering tissues as well as flushing out the body’s toxins.

Deep Tissue massage focuses on relieving severe muscular and connective tissue  (fascia) through releasing the deeper muscles located below the top muscular surface.
Deep tissue massage techniques concentrate on very slow, long flowing strokes, gliding in and out of the muscles.  If a therapist massages too rapidly the muscle can become tense, which is an undesirable reaction for the therapist.  To attain muscle release on certain trouble areas, massage therapists often sustain consistent firm pressure on that area, prior to moving on to the next part of the body.

Deep tissue massage is frequently recommended for people who regularly engage in heavy physical activity, such as patients who have suffered a physical injury or athletes or individuals who suffer with ongoing pain.

A deep tissue massage helps loosen muscle tissues and release toxins from muscles. Many toxins are released during a deep tissue massage thus it is important to drink plenty of water afterwards to help eliminate such toxins from the body.

IS DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE THE RIGHT THERAPY FOR YOU?

Deep Tissue Massage may benefit the following physical and mental conditions:

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE SESSIONS

Sessions typically last between 30 minutes to 1 hour.  The therapist will create an environment for your massage that is warm and relaxing.  Initially the therapist during your first appointment will need to ascertain details concerning your general health, sleep patterns, lifestyle and medical history.  To recommend a course of treatment and make a diagnosis of problem areas, the therapist will need to examine your body to discover muscle imbalances within the body.  It is advisable to wear loose clothing for optimal comfort on the massage table.

The focus for the massage therapist during your treatment is to release tension within the deeper tissue structures of the muscle and fascia (connective tissue).  To achieve this slower strokes are commonly used with the application of deep intense pressure.  By utilizing these types of strokes and intense pressure, the therapist is able to warm the tissue and reach deeper layers of muscle.  Upon finding a chronic knot (or adhesion as commonly referred) a therapist frequently suggests that you consider a lifestyle change, suggestions may include certain exercises that strengthen posture, movement, balance and relaxation.  The exercises aim to compliment your weekly massage sessions.

The techniques and strokes used within deep tissue massage differ from those utilized in conventional massage, due to this, therapists seldom use lotions and oils.  It is advisable to drink plenty of water after your massage as this type of therapy does dehydrate the body, you may also feel tired and sore afterwards, the therapist may advise you to apply an ice pack onto the treated areas.  Additionally further sessions and treatment will be discussed.

FINDING A QUALIFIED MASSAGE THERAPIST

Most people find Deep Tissue Massage Therapy deeply relaxing and enjoy the tension it releases throughout the body.  It is also extremely safe when carried out by a qualified therapist.  It is wise to carry out some research and select a therapist who is either a member of, or accredited by, an association or professional body such as the Massage Association of New Zealand (MNZ).  Deep Tissue Massage Therapists are obligated to a code of ethics and procedure that determines the therapy is carried out in a suitable and safe environment.  These regulations also guarantee a specialist who has undergone certifiable training and receives professional upskilling.

The Wellness Directory provides a ready-made referral list of certified Practitioners within your region.  We fully encourage you to do some independent research by checking out individual credentials, i.e. experience, training, qualifications, relevant client feedback and so forth.

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