What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of deep tissue massage, which we offer in Louisville at CaloSpa? For most people, it is the thought of being crushed by the elbow of a merciless massage therapist. Some people imagine themselves gritting their teeth and holding on to the edges of the table with a white-knuckled grip, holding back the tears as their muscles are steam-rolled. Feel free to breathe a sigh of a relief, because this is not what deep tissue massage is about!
The Truth
Unlike a Swedish/relaxation massage that really only works with the most superficial layers of muscle tissue underneath the skin, deep tissue is simply a technique in which the massage therapist works with several layers of muscle and connective tissue. Deep tissue focuses on the release of muscle tension and chronic knots (also known as adhesions). Deep tissue can also break up scar tissue from previous injuries.
A common problem is that stressed muscles can block nutrients and oxygen from getting to where they need to go, and this will cause inflammation that allows toxins to build up in your muscle tissue. The inflammation and toxins contribute to the pain and stress a person feels in a certain area of muscle. Deep tissue breaks up and releases the built-up toxins by loosening the muscles. With the toxins released from the body, fresh blood and oxygen can then circulate through one’s body as they should.
One of the most important things to remember to do during a deep tissue massage is breathe deeply during the session and also while you are relaxing afterward. Bringing lots of fresh oxygen into the body, and into the muscles themselves, will help you receive the maximum amount of benefit from your session.
Just as our massage therapist, Leslie, stated in her blog post about informing your massage therapist about how much pressure you prefer during a massage, the same advice applies to deep tissue massage. The massage should not hurt, but it will be a little uncomfortable at times compared to a relaxation massage. Never allow the pressure to become too much or extremely painful, as this may do more harm than good.
It is highly recommended that you are properly hydrated before you receive a massage, and it is also crucial to drink plenty of water after a deep tissue treatment. This helps assist the body in completely flushing out the built-up toxins that were released during the massage. It is common that sometimes there will be some residual soreness a day or 2 after deep tissue, and drinking plenty of water can help eliminate a lot of this post-massage soreness. Soaking in a hot Epsom salt bath can also be beneficial after a deep tissue session, as the Epsom salt helps pull toxins from the body out into the water.
Your muscles need rest after one of these massages. Even if you don’t feel any soreness, make sure that you refrain from any strenuous activity the day of your deep tissue massage.
So now you know everything you need about a deep tissue treatment. Come in and see for yourself the amazing benefits of this healing massage technique.
May you be well,
Jordan Cox, LMT
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