A deep tissue massage may be described as a “next-level” massage – scuba diving versus a casual swim.
Deep tissue massage is more than skin deep. Your muscles are lower in your body. Massage therapists use slower strokes and direct pressure to help relieve pain, stiffness, and tension.
When you have regular tension or pain, bands of rigid tissue are normally to blame. These bands (or adhesions) can block blood flow and cause pain, limit movement, and increase inflammation. In a deep tissue massage, your therapist will work to break down these bands to relieve pain and help you to move your body with ease.
Classic massage therapy is different from deep tissue massage. One focuses on stress relief and relaxation, while the other (deep tissue) helps you with a specific problem like pain, stiffness, limited movement, or an injury.
What’s the difference between a Swedish massage and a deep tissue massage?
You may be surprised to know that there are more than 80 types of massage. These range from more relaxing (think spa day) types to more intense kinds for rehab or pain relief.
Swedish massage and deep tissue massage are two common types. So, what’s the difference?
Swedish massages are used for relaxation, to improve blood flow, and to relieve muscle tension. The intensity is gentle, with long, gliding strokes, along with some tapping and kneading. Usually, anyone gets them, especially if you’re older, an athlete, or you’re pregnant.
Deep tissue massages are used for pain relief, especially for chronic or long-term pain. The intensity is vigorous. The strokes are slow, with your masseuse using their fingers, thumbs, and elbows. Usually, athletes, runners, and people who sit for long periods of time get deep tissue massages.
What Happens During a Deep Tissue Massage?
Massage therapists use their fingers, thumbs, or elbows to apply pressure. It is especially helpful for areas of your body that are subject to muscle tightness, like your neck, lower back, and shoulders. Some of the same strokes are used in classic massage. But with deep tissue, the pressure is deeper and concentrated on areas of tension and pain. Think of kneading bread.
What Are the Benefits of Deep Tissue Massage?
While deep tissue massage may not always feel as relaxing as other types of massage, the benefits may be worth it. More research is needed to understand exactly how or why massage therapy may help.
BENEFITS
Reduced pain and muscle tension. The No. 1 reason people get a massage may not be all that surprising. Studies show a whopping 94% of people believe massage can help with pain, and more than 30% say they have gotten a massage for that reason.
Deep tissue massage targets deeper layers of muscles and connective tissues to relieve chronic pain and muscle tension. The American College of Physicians even lists massage therapy as a remedy for temporary back pain.
Improved sleep. Some studies have suggested regular monthly massages can increase oxytocin (the feel-good hormone) and possibly decrease cortisol (the stress hormone). The combo can lead to a better mood and good sleep, especially for those with insomnia due to menopause or congestive heart failure. If you’re sleeping better, you may see a decrease in depression or anxiety too!
Strengthened immune response. Can regular massages keep you from getting sick? One recent study showed an increase in white blood cells after a massage, which work to fight off viruses and infections.
Other benefits may include:
- Breaking down scar tissue
- Relieving constipation (especially post-surgery)
- Decreasing cancer pain in some patients
- Lessening fibromyalgia pain
- Improving appetite
“It may seem like massage therapists are just rubbing, but we move with purpose,” says Dionna Freeman of Los Angeles, a licensed massage therapist for 20 years. “I’ve seen people who couldn’t move their neck side to side or were having trouble sleeping who now say they’re doing so much better. It’s not just a luxury. Massage can truly be therapy, or ‘church for the body,’ I like to call it.”
Talk to your doctor before seeing a massage therapist to ensure it’s right for you.
