WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF  DEEP TISSUE  MASSAGE?

Deep Tissue massage is an intensive treatment that focuses on the deeper layers of the muscles. Special “cross fiber” techniques aim to break up scar tissue. This is especially beneficial for athletes and those with an active lifestyle.

Deep Tissue massage focuses on realigning deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. These sessions will use more intense pressure than what is used during a Swedish massage and it is normal for people to experience a manageable amount of pain while therapists work on tight and contracted muscles. For any type of athlete, Deep Tissue massage will assist in injury prevention and improved training. All varieties of sports and physical activities can lead to imbalances that can cause injury. By improving circulation, eliminating tight spots and working out adhesions that impede optimal performance, massage can facilitate repair and help to keep athletes at their best.

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING YOUR SESSION:

Deep Tissue sessions actually do include some Swedish-style strokes, but the movement is slower and the pressure is deeper, concentrating on areas of thick fibrous tissue.  Your therapist will also be using “tools” that will deliver deeper pressure such as elbows, forearms, knuckles, and fists.  Those who would like to have a more gentle session and whose primary goal is relaxation should look into Swedish Massage. You may also choose to customize your session- choosing Deep Tissue for problem areas and Swedish for the rest.

HOW MANY SESSIONS ARE NEEDED?

This will always depend on your specific goals and the nature of your muscle dysfunction.

For those who are seeking massage as a preventative method to shore up minor imbalances in the body, achieve relaxation, and improve circulation- once a month will be perfect for you.

If you are trying to ease muscle tension from an old injury or from repetitive muscle usage, you should expect that it will take more than one session to achieve these results.  The longer you have been living with a muscle dysfunction, the longer it will take to work through the many layers of fibrous tissue.  For somebody coming in with a dysfunction that has been bothering them for a long time, an average scenario might look something like the following:

1. Initial visit to assess and ease outer muscle layers

2. Follow up appointment in one week to ease the middle layers of tissue

3. Second follow up appointment in one week to ease the deepest layers of tissue

4. Monthly maintenance visits to preserve muscle integrity and prevent return of dysfunction

For athletes, there are many studies showing the benefits that can be received from regular massages.  Some of these benefits include, reduced muscle tension, increased range of motion, decreased muscle stiffness and soreness after exercise, enhanced athletic performance, and prevention of injuries when massage is received regularly. For more information and references, please visit the AMTA website.

HOW MUCH DOES A SESSION COST?

You can my rates here.