Deep tissue massage was a phrase originally coined by massage consumers to describe the amount of pressure they prefer. However, over the past several years, the term has been used by licensed massage therapists (LMTs) to name a modality of massage. A massage should be a relaxing experience and never painful. We encourage you to speak freely with our massage therapists about your comfort levels at any point during the massage experience.
Deep tissue massages come in a variety of forms such as trigger point therapy, neuromuscular therapy and integrative connective tissue work. All of these techniques can be incorporated into almost any modality of massage and any amount of pressure can be used.
Three types of Deep Tissue Massage:
- Trigger Point Therapy: Trigger point therapy alleviates certain paint points within the body. A trigger point is a a tight area within muscle tissue that will trigger pain in other points in the body. For example, if you have neck pain, it could trigger sharp or dull pain in the head. As a customer, we encourage you to communicate with your massage therapist about where you pain is located so that we may identify the exact location and relieve discomfort.
- Neuromuscular Therapy: This type of therapy concentrates an amount of pressure surrounding a muscle spasm. Our therapists are well-trained in the areas of alternatiing pressure applications around muscle spasm areas. Again, communicate with your massage therapist on your comfort level.
- Integrative Connective Tissue Work: Connective tissue massage aims to relax tight muscles and will improve blood flow and circulation. This therapy may be best for those who have tight, contracted muscles from repetitive movements due to work, hobbies and other frequent activity. This also stimulates the stretch reflex in muscles.
According to LiveStrong.com, a deep tissue massage has been known to relieve chronic pain in certain areas of the body, improves blood pressure, breaks up scar tissue, and relieves stress and tension within the body.
Similar to a Swedish massage, a deep tissue massage is coupled with some intense pressure, which is beneficial in releasing tension throughout the body. Remember, a massage should never be painful. Communicate with your massage therapist on your comfort level.
Massage is not a “no pain, no gain” scenario. The pressure that is best for you is whatever pressure feels therapeutic and enjoyable to you. The sensation can be on the verge of uncomfortable, but only in a good way. You should be able to breathe normally and keep your body relaxed. Any massage that makes you tense up your body is counterproductive to your therapy.
To schedule a massage with Z Salon, call 502.426.2226 or contact us here!
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