Deep tissue massage targets the deeper layers of muscles, connective tissue, tendons, and ligaments. It aims to break up scar tissue and loosen constrictions of blood flow that cause long-term inflammation and debilitating pain and prevent comfortable mobility.
It may feel a bit painful at times, but therapists are careful to adjust the depth of the strokes according to your comfort level. This can help reduce pain and discomfort, as well as prevent any unnecessary straining of the muscles.
Relieves Muscle Tension
The firm pressure of a deep tissue massage helps to break up and release the knots that form in your muscles. This removes the tension in those areas and helps to relieve pain, as well.
Depending on your tolerance, the pressure from the massage may be very firm or slightly uncomfortable at times. Your therapist should always check in with you to ensure the pressure is comfortable and is not too intense for you.
Some common side effects of a deep tissue massage include a headache (due to the awkward positioning of the head during treatment), fatigue or grogginess, and a feeling of heat or nausea (which signifies that your body is releasing toxins). Any lingering feelings should dissipate within a few days after the treatment.
Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Those suffering from stress and anxiety can benefit greatly from regular massages. A study published in Scientific World Journal found that deep-tissue massage can reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings.
This type of massage stimulates the muscles and tissue to improve circulation, which is vital for overall health and well-being. Good circulation ensures that your body receives the necessary nutrients while also eliminating waste and toxins.
A massage can also cause your body to produce endorphins, which are natural painkillers and mood enhancers. It’s important to drink plenty of water after a session as this helps flush out the toxins that your body releases during treatment. It is also common to feel dizzy or sleepy after a deep tissue massage; this is due to the stimulation and release of chemicals in the body.
Increases Circulation
It increases venous return, which improves blood and lymphatic circulation, delivering more oxygen to body tissues. This also reduces metabolic waste accumulation and eliminates toxins from the body, resulting in better muscle condition.
It can increase the production of oxytocin, which is more or less your bonding hormone, and causes the release of endorphins. This relieves stress and anxiety and gives you an overall positive feeling. It can also boost sports performance for athletes by increasing their range of motion and breaking up adhesions.
Reduces Pain and Stiffness
Deep tissue massages break down muscle adhesions that cause pain, tightness, and restrictions in movement. By releasing these adhesions, the massage allows for better movement and can also help reduce stress. It also increases serotonin levels, which helps to boost the immune system and improve your ability to fight disease.
It is important to note that due to the intensity of a deep tissue massage, some people will experience soreness after their treatment. This lingering soreness should not last more than a few days. The soreness is caused by your muscles working through the layers of tissue and releasing toxins.
Improves Flexibility
Deep tissue massage increases the flexibility of the muscles and their connective tissues. This occurrence occurs due to the increase in temperature that happens in muscle tissues during a massage, which helps in releasing and loosening the tight muscles and joints they are attached to.
This is one of the lesser-known benefits of a good massage, but it can have some major positive impacts on those with arthritis. Moderate pressure during a massage can reduce swelling that can limit the range of motion in the joints and help alleviate pain that may keep arthritis patients awake at night.
Flexibility is vital for everyone, and incorporating regular massages into your routine can make a big difference in your flexibility. Just be sure to consult your therapist before beginning treatment for any specific goals regarding flexibility.
