What to expect
The first thing to bear in mind is that deep tissue massage is used for therapy and rehabilitation, not only relaxation. So you need to be prepared to feel some discomfort during a deep tissue massage and even after. You will most probably lie on your stomach or back while the massage therapist applies various degrees of pressure on tight muscles that have issues and are lying dormant in your body.
Types of techniques used
Deep Tissue Massage is generally used for maintenance after stress from work or fitness. For this type of treatment, the expert analysis would not be necessary to do. The practitioner aims to provide deep-tissue massage in all areas of the back however the patient may like more time on a specific area. Deep Tissue Massage techniques may differ from Sports Massage techniques (see table below). Your expert therapist will use effleurage, petrissage, and trigger point release to improve function.
Key Differences |
Sports Massage |
Deep-Tissue Massage |
High Pressure |
|
|
General Maintenance |
x |
|
Relaxes muscles |
|
|
Greater Muscle Flexibility |
|
x |
Stress Relief |
x |
|
Re-establishes muscle strength |
|
x |