Deep Tissue Massage: Use and Benefits

There are many different types of massages: Swedish massage, shiatsu massage, hot stone massage, Thai massage and so many more. Each type of massage therapy offers a unique experience ideal for targeting different injuries and issues. Deep tissue massage therapy is a common option, how do you know if it’s right for you?

What is deep tissue massage?

Deep tissue is a type of massage therapy that applies a deeper, more targeted pressure than classic or relaxation therapies in order to break down adhesions (bands of hard, painful tissue, felt as “knots”) in your muscles, tendons and ligaments. Therapists use thumbs, knuckles, forearms and elbows with slow, firm strokes to reduce pain, inflammation, muscle tension and stress, as well as increase circulation.

Cool fact!

While massage was part of many ancient civilizations, the techniques of deep tissue massage were first developed here in Canada in the mid-1800s. Canadian Dr. Therese Phimmer opened a deep tissue clinic in 1949 and later published guidelines in her book Muscles – Your Invisible Bonds. The practice gradually became more popular through sports medicine and physical therapy because of its success treating soft tissue injuries and chronic pain.

What can deep tissue massage treat?

• Chronic aches and pain
• Lower back pain
• Muscle spasm
• Tension from stiff muscles such as:
  • Neck
  • Shoulders
  • Upper back
  • Calf muscles
  • Hamstrings
  • Glutes
  • IT band
  • Quadriceps
  • Rhomboids
• Limited mobility
• Whiplash and other injuries including sports injuries
• Surgery recovery
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Hunched back, sway back and other postural issues
• Sciatica
• Golf/Tennis elbow
• Fibromyalgia
• Stress
• Tension headaches

Benefits

If you’re experiencing any of the above conditions you can benefit from deep tissue massage therapy. Deep tissue massage therapy can provide the following benefits:

• Reduce muscle tension
• Increase blood flow
• Reduce inflammation
• Increase mobility
• Relieve pain
• Break up scar tissue
• Ease tight, twisted , or knotted muscles
• Reduce pain
• Lower blood pressure
• Increased flexibility

It’s important to identify what benefits you want to see from massage therapy before choosing the style that’s right for you. If you think deep tissue massage might be right for you, contact a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) for an assessment.

You can book your appointment now and start feeling better sooner!