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 your massage and even after. You will most likely lie on your stomach or back while your massage therapist applies various degrees of pressure on tight muscles.
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. The 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 |
DTM |
High Pressure |
|
|
General Maintenance |
x |
|
Relaxes muscles |
|
|
Greater Muscle Flexibility |
|
x |
Stress Relief |
x |
|
Re-establishes muscle strength |
|
x |