Deep Tissue Massage

If you have chronic back pain, then deep-tissue massage may be just what you need. This style of massage therapy penetrates far into the soft tissues of the back, neck, and shoulders to destroy tense knots. But be warned: deep-tissue massage is not for those with low pain thresholds. Read on to learn more about this popular style of massage therapy.

What happens during deep tissue massage?

A deep-tissue treatment is much like a Swedish massage, except it uses more force. Although many of the same touches as a Swedish massage are used, the movements involved in a deep-tissue treatment are generally slower and involve more pressure. The goal of a deep-tissue massage is to realign muscles and connective tissues by eliminating adhesions, or knots. Adhesions are areas of tight muscles that usually build up over time; they can cause chronic pain and inflammation and can limit mobility. In a deep-tissue massage, adhesions are targeted and pressed, rolled, and kneaded until they are released. A massage therapist could use his or her arms, fingers, fists, palms, or knuckles to do this, and a good amount of pressure is always applied. The pressure and the focus on problem areas is why some people find deep-tissue massage to be uncomfortable. Like most massages, a deep tissue treatment takes place on a massage table. Customers undress while the therapist is out of the room and lie down on their stomachs. A sheet is draped over the parts of the body not being worked on at all times, so complete nudity is not an issue. You are allowed to wear your underwear during the massage if it makes you more comfortable. If nudity is a big issue for you, you may want to consider other forms of massage that can be performed with clothes on. Thai massage, cranial massage, and reflexology are three such treatments.

Will it hurt?

Since deep-tissue massage is all about breaking up the source of chronic pain, you can expect there to be some discomfort during the treatment. Many participants feel sore for a few days after the massage too. Although a deep-tissue treatment won’t be as relaxing as other kinds of massages, it should never be unbearably painful. Don’t think that pain during the massage will give you more relief later; this is not necessarily true, and you could bruise your muscles or hurt your organs if too much force is applied. A lighter touch can give you equally good results as a more forceful massage, especially if you get treatments often as recommended. Always let your therapist know if your treatment is painful; he or she should reduce the pressure accordingly.

Who should get deep tissue massages?

A deep-tissue massage is not an appropriate choice for a first-time spa-goer looking for relaxation. However, if you want to find relief from chronic pain, it could be the ideal treatment for you. Deep-tissue massage can help relieve pain, improve mobility, prevent tension headaches, improve posture, help with muscle spasms, and may assist in recovery from some injuries, like strained muscles or whiplash. It is also helpful for people who suffer from fibromyalgia and osteoarthritis. The best results are always achieved when deep-tissue massage is combined with other treatments, like physical therapy. And multiple sessions are a must if you want long-term changes. One treatment might make you feel better, but most adhesions take multiple sessions to be worked out completely.

Where can I get a deep-tissue massage?

Most spa facilities offer deep-tissue services as one of their massage treatments. Some health clubs also keep a masseur on staff who can give this treatment. Doctor’s offices and physical therapy centers commonly provide deep-tissue therapy for patients too. Sometimes, a massage therapist will set up shop in her own home; deep-tissue massage is usually offered in this case as well. Since deep-tissue massage is a development of the Swedish massage technique, any therapist who knows Swedish massage should be able to provide you with a deep-tissue treatment. This doesn’t mean that all therapists are good at deep-tissue massage, however. It takes a lot of force to break up adhesions, so stronger therapists are usually the best choices. Many deep-tissue massage recipients prefer men for this reason.

How much will it cost?

A deep-tissue massage should cost about the same as a traditional Swedish treatment, possibly a bit more because of the more intense pressure the therapist must exert. Expect to pay at least $75 per hour at a day spa; some high-end city spas will charge upward of $200 for an hour. Some spas may offer a discount if you schedule multiple deep-tissue massages, as is recommended. Also, if you work through a doctor’s office and are prescribed a physical therapy and massage regimen, you may be able to get deep-tissue massages for less at a rehab center.

Take-away tips

Deep-tissue massage is an intense treatment designed to break up knotted tissues, called adhesions. It can be uncomfortable for some people and is not recommended for inexperienced spa patrons. Multiple treatments will give the best results. Deep-tissue massage can provide relief for a variety of medical problems, but one treatment usually isn’t enough to make a lasting difference. Although deep-tissue massages do use a lot of force, they shouldn’t be unbearably painful. Remember to speak up if you are uncomfortable for long periods of time. The massage doesn’t have to be excruciating to get results.