Deep Tissue Massage

What is a Deep Tissue Massage?

A deep tissue massage is similar to a Swedish massage. Although, the deeper pressure is beneficial in releasing chronic muscle tension. The focus is on the deepest layers of muscle tissue, tendons, and fascia. Fascia is the protective layer surrounding muscles, bones, and joints. Deep tissue massage is used for chronic aches and pains. It can include areas such as the neck, upper back, low back and legs.

Deep Tissue Massage

Benefits

Deep tissue massage usually focuses on specific problems. According to Consumer Reports magazine, approximately 34,000 people ranked deep tissue massage in relieving osteoarthritis pain better than other sources. These sources include physical therapy, exercise, medications, and acupuncture. Deep tissue also scored a top rating in relieving fibromyalgia pain. People often notice an improved range of motion immediately after a massage.

What to Expect FromDeep Tissue Massage

Some strokes may feel the same as those used in a Swedish massage. Deep tissue isn’t a stronger version of a Swedish massage. Deep tissue massage techniques are used to break up scar tissue and physically break down muscle knots or adhesions that cause pain. At the beginning of a deep tissue massage, lighter pressure is applied. This warms up and prepares the muscles.

Common Techniques ofDeep Tissue Massage

Massage therapists may use fingertips, knuckles, hands, elbows, and forearms during a deep tissue massage. You may be asked to breathe deeply as the massage therapist works on tense areas. Common techniques for a deep tissue massage include stripping and friction. Stripping is a deep, gliding pressure. It moves along the length of the muscle fibers. Typically the elbow, forearms, knuckles and thumbs are used. Friction is pressure applied across the grain of a muscle. This helps to relieve adhesions and realign tissue fibers.

Side Effects and Precautions

Deep tissue massages may not be for everyone. People with blood clots should not receive a deep tissue massage. Those who have had a recent surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation should also not get a deep tissue massage. If you are pregnant, you should talk to your doctor if you are considering getting a massage. Deep tissue (or strong pressure) should be avoided during pregnancy.

Massage and Chiropractic

Massage focuses on manipulating soft tissues. It also helps to improve circulation and blood flow. Chiropractic care focuses on the nervous system and musculoskeletal dysfunction. These are related to tissues like the spine, bones, and joints. These hard tissues are surrounded by muscles. Tight muscles can pull the joint out of alignment. Tight muscles can also make it hard to manipulate the joint. Receiving chiropractic care before or after a massage can help both treatments. Range of motion, faster healing, and improving overall function can be rewarding benefits of combining chiropractic and massage.

ProAdjuster Chiropractic Clinic.

In addition to computerized chiropractic care, we also offer massage therapy. Our massage therapist is skilled in a variety of different massages. If you or anyone you know suffers from back pain, feel free to give us a call at 757-473-9900 (option 2).

check us out at
https://www.ratemds.com/clinic/us-va-virginia-beach-proadjuster-chiropractic-clinic/