Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue massage is a therapy that focuses on realigning deeper layers of muscles and connective tissue. It is beneficial for chronic aches and pains. The massage therapist uses slower strokes with more pressure than a classic Swedish massage. The strokes are slower, and the pressure is deeper and concentrated on areas of tension and pain.
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The benefits of Deep Tissue massage include:
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Relieves chronic muscle tension and knots - Apply focused pressure to release muscle knots and deeply held tension.
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Breaks up scar tissue and adhesions - Cross-fiber friction techniques break down rigid, dense tissue bands.
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Reduces muscle pain and soreness - Pressure and stroking movements alleviate trigger points and muscle pain.
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Improves range of motion - Stretching and myofascial release increases the mobility of muscle tissue.
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Increases blood flow and circulation - Kneading motions enhance blood flow to aid healing.
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Reduces inflammation - Flush metabolic waste and swelling to decrease inflammation.
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Helps heal injuries and aid recovery - Increase blood flow to injured areas to accelerate healing.
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Improves posture through muscle releases - Release tight muscles to bring the body back into alignment.
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Provides relief from chronic pain and tightness - Apply pressure to muscle trigger points to alleviate referred pain.
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Reduces stress and promotes relaxation - Slow strokes trigger the relaxation response and calm the nervous system.
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Improves flexibility and mobility - Stretching techniques lengthen shortened muscles and enhance range of motion.
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Here's a list of key components and techniques used in Swedish massage:
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Friction - The therapist uses deep, circular movements over the area being massaged with fingers and thumbs. This helps break up scar tissue and adhesions.
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Trigger point therapy - Pressure is applied to specific myofascial trigger points to relieve muscle knots and tension.
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Cross-fiber strokes - The therapist applies pressure across the grain of the muscle to break up muscle knots and spasms.
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Forearm massage - The therapist uses forearms and elbows to apply body weight pressure and get deeper into the tissue.
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Petrissage - The therapist uses kneading, rolling and lifting techniques on the muscle to facilitate circulation.
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Rocking and shaking motions - Rhythmic motions are used to relax the deeper musculature.
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Common areas of focus include the shoulders, lower back, legs and neck where tension accumulates.