While massage therapy is generally safe, deep tissue massage uses very firm pressure and may not be safe for everyone. A deep tissue massage may cause bruising, but it's not common. Deep tissue massage is a more intense form of massage that is designed to target the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. Keep reading to learn more about deep tissue massage, including how it compares to Swedish massage and what to expect during a session.
If you're interested in getting a deep tissue massage, it's usually best to visit a massage therapist or a massage treatment room where you can relax and feel comfortable. If someone has been receiving regular massages for some time, they may need more in-depth work, as they have already resolved much of the more superficial tension caused by their previous treatments. Other people may not enjoy the discomfort of a deep tissue massage, but they may prefer to focus on deeper muscles to help balance body posture. This is unlikely to be the case, so be patient before you judge the outcome of your Deep Tissue session. People often use deep tissue massage to treat muscle injuries, chronic pain, and tension in specific areas of the body.
Some more modern deep tissue approaches can analyze posture in relation to specific “myofascial meridians” and apply slow, deep movements along an entire meridian. In general, expert therapists can effectively use deep tissue massages to relieve muscle tension and improve overall well-being, with a low risk of bruising. It may not be possible to perform a deep tissue massage in the workplace unless there is a designated massage room for this. Usually, the massage therapist will work on specific areas of muscle tension, with slow, deep movements.
Deep tissue massage refers to massage techniques that use the deeper muscle fibers of the body and not just the surface layers. Unlike other massage techniques that focus on relaxation, deep tissue massage helps treat muscle pain and improve stiffness. Deep tissue massage and Swedish massage are two types of therapeutic massages designed to relax muscles and improve circulation. It's common to feel pain and tenderness after a deep tissue massage, especially if the therapist was working in areas of muscle tension and stiffness. However, a deep tissue massage may help reduce muscle tension and improve blood flow.