During this type of massage, the massage therapist exerts a stronger and more targeted pressure on the problematic area, and aims to provide long-term pain relief.

Deep tissue massage is used to treat chronic tension and overuse injuries. Even if some gestures are similar to those of a classic Swedish massage, the pace is generally slower, and the pressure more accentuated and more targeted on the problematic areas. The massage therapist uses his forearms, elbows, fingers, fists and hands to release adhesions. These rigid tissue bands can cause pain and inflammation, while restricting movement and circulation in muscle tissue. This can include stiffness in the neck, upper back and legs, or pain in the lower back and shoulders.

IS IT RIGHT FOR ME?

Deep tissue massage usually focuses on a specific problem, such as chronic muscle pain or rehabilitation after injury. It can effectively treat many problems, such as whiplash, repetitive strain injuries, postural disorders, sciatica, sports injuries, recovery after a fall, muscle tension or spasms in the hamstring muscles, quadriceps, rhomboids, iliotibial tract and upper back. It has also been shown to be more effective in treating osteoarthritis than many other alternatives, such as exercise and physiotherapy therapy, prescription and over-the-counter medications, chiropractic, acupuncture, diet and therapy. This massage is also recommended in case of fibromyalgia, as it often offers immediate improvement in mobility. Its benefits go even beyond muscle and pain relief, as it also helps reduce blood pressure, heart rate, and stress hormone levels. A massage that is as beneficial for the body as it is for the mind, which allows you to relax and be more positive.

DOES IT HURT?

At some point during treatment, people may experience some discomfort. This is almost inevitable when you put stronger, direct pressure on areas that have had pain or discomfort beforehand. The scar tissue relaxes and the muscles lengthen, the knots relax and the deep muscle layers fall back into place. When treating particularly tense areas, taking a deep breath can sometimes help. It is very important to report painful areas to your massage therapist and inform them when the pain becomes too severe. They can then easily release the pressure a little or use more oil to help relax the muscles. Multiple sessions and give your body time to gradually readjust can also allow for the body to gradually adjust to the work your massage therapist does.

You will usually feel some stiffness or tension after this massage, but it shouldn't last more than a day or two. To relieve it, you can do some stretching, apply ice to the painful areas, and drink plenty of water, to rehydrate the muscles and drain the toxins released during the treatment. Another tip: eat light before the massage and avoid any physical activity after.

WHAT ARE ITS BENEFITS?

This massage technique allows a total relaxation of the muscles thanks to pressure points along the entire length of the deep muscles. The myofascial release focuses on stretching tissue trigger points by exerting deep pressure on areas of contractions and cross fibers to cause frictions that reduce muscular adhesions. Deep tissue massage can help to relax muscles, fascia and joints, increase muscle elasticity, lower the level of stress hormones, and improve posture.

FINAL THOUGHTS

A massage therapist will not be able to work directly on bruises, inflamed or infected areas, skin rashes or wounds, weakened bones or recent fractures, tumours or abdominal hernias. If yourashes or wounds, weakened bones or recent fractures, tumours or abdominal hernias. If you have recently had surgery, chemotherapy, or any other medical procedure or medical conditions, you should speak with your doctor before receiving a deep tissue massage. Even if you don’t experience chronic muscle pain, a deep tissue massage is also excellent for those who exercise very often or play sports.

Book yourself a session with a massage session with one of our highly rated massage therapists at Adore Essence and experience true relaxation and relief.