Deep Tissue Massage Therapy

Deep tissue massage therapy is a specialized form of massage therapy.  This method of massage applies pressure to tendons, fascia, connective tissue, and to muscles under the skin but also to the deeper layers of  muscles. As you might expect, deep tissue massage is more intense than a Swedish massage. It is often the massage of choice for athletes (see sports therapy massage).

To accomplish the goals of deep tissue massage, the therapist utilizes deep pressure via the fingertips in a slow stroking fashion. This can be done by following the grain of the muscle, fascia or tendon or by going across the grains of the fibers.

A major focus of deep tissue massage is to release tension patterns in muscle fiber. Areas of tension, are often chronically contracted.  In this case, the therapist is likely to apply friction to the fibers with the fingertips in a direct way while going across the grain.

Deep tissue massage therapy is thought to have many benefits. Among other things, deep tissue massage may:

* help relieve pain
* promote healing
* help the body to realign itself
* help to eliminate scar tissue
* relieve tension
* sooth and relax muscles
* help to remove toxins
* enhance circulation of the blood
* help to increase oxygen flow

Deep tissue massage concentrates on specific areas of the body with the therapist using long, slow and deep massaging strokes. The pressure necessary to get beyond superficial layers and into the deeper structures and fibers may be applied with:

* forearms
* hands
* knuckles
* elbows
* fingertips
* thumbs
* fists

Usually there is some lotion, oil or a crème used to help with friction in working into the deeper structures of the fibers. While deep tissue massage can be somewhat uncomfortable at times, the therapist will warm the soft tissue before going into deeper fibers. Proper techniques can minimize any soreness that might occur as part of this intense form of massage.

Over the years, massage therapists has used deep tissue massage to treat a number of conditions and complaints.  Therapists believe that deep tissue massage may be helpful in:

* alleviating or easing tension
* reducing the frequency and intensity of headaches
* reducing or eliminating neck pain
* reducing or eliminating trigger points
* relieving back pain
* helping to heal a sports injury
* reducing the discomfort of tennis elbow
* reduce symptoms of golfers elbow

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