Deep tissue massage is a form of massage used to reduce muscle tension and adhesions. The masseur can use his elbows, forearms, fingers and ankles to eliminate problems in your tissues.
A deep massage never comprises the whole body, but only two zones at most, which you can specify in advance, and therefore they are approached very carefully.
By combining different deep techniques from both fascia therapy and relaxation massage, you can work in a more complex way than with a classic sports massage.
A deep tissue massage usually focuses on a specific problem, such as (chronic) muscle pain, pain due to incorrect posture and stress-related pain. Especially people who work on the computer all day will benefit from deep tissue massage.
It is also recommended to athletes after an intensive training or a sports performance. It promotes recovery, keeps the tissue supple and prevents injuries.
The benefits of Deep Tissue Massage are not only muscle and pain related, but also lower blood pressure, heart rate and the stress hormone cortisol, which facilitates relaxation after the massage in many different situations.
Many people associate deep tissue massage with pain, but this may not always be the case. Deep pressure is usually necessary to loosen knots and adhesions, stretch muscles and make tissue supple again. However, the masseur adjusts to your breathing and your pain threshold at all times, so that the massage is never perceived as unpleasant.
Do not hesitate to say if you feel too uncomfortable, because everyone has a different pain threshold.
It is also advisable to inform your therapist in advance about any pain points. He or she can take this into account during treatment and pay special attention to it. Sometimes your complaints cannot be resolved with a single treatment.
If follow-up sessions are indicated, the masseur will suggest this to you.
After the treatment your body may feel a little stiff or painful. Then it is important to give it the opportunity to recover properly and not to overexert it by avoiding intensive activities.
A deep tissue massage is not suitable if you suffer from acute inflammation, open wounds, brittle bones or fresh fractures, tumours or abdominal hernia (abdominoplasty). Even if you have recently undergone surgery or chemotherapy, it is advisable to consult your doctor before booking a deep tissue massage.