There are a wide variety of different styles and techniques of massage available. Deep tissue massage is one of the most popular among them. As the name implies, deep tissue massage focuses on the deep layers of muscles and connecting tissues like fascia. These are reached through the application of firmer pressure and slightly different techniques than other styles of massage such as Swedish.
A good deep tissue massage can help to treat conditions like muscle stiffness, chronic pain, and improve circulation. This makes it especially useful for treating back pain, high blood pressure, and chronic stress.
Relieving Back Pain
Deep tissue massage is especially effective for back pain caused by repetitive motion or prolonged sitting. It relieves inflammation by bringing blood flow to the area and stimulating the affected nerves. Many patients see immediate improvement. However, the greatest benefits are usually seen after a sequence of regular massages. Most sessions will last for a minimum an hour for the best results.
Relaxing muscle tension from stress
Stress is an epidemic in our society and your body can pay the price. Chronic stress leads to inflammation from head to toe. Muscle tension carried in your body for a long time is more than just uncomfortable. It can affect your health in many ways, including:
- reduced immune system
- longer recovery time from illness or injury
- higher blood pressure
- poor posture
- aggravated skin conditions such as eczema
- cardiovascular issues
- chronic headaches
- poor sleeping, exhaustion, and mental fog
Deep tissue massage can lower levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. It may also increase oxytocin, the relaxation hormone. This is why deep tissue massage is so important for people who suffer from chronic stress and tension. Massage is a constant line of defense for a body at war with stress.
