Deep tissue massage is a massage technique that involves gently but firmly kneading the muscle fibers, ligaments and tendons in order to promote the release of tension. It is most commonly used as a therapy that is focused on one or more specific issues, and a massage therapist must have a thorough understanding of the tissue layers under the skin in order to give a safe and effective deep tissue massage. Although massage may not necessarily be considered a medical treatment, it does involve manipulating the body, and there are therefore some things to consider before you go in for massage therapy. Here are the pros and cons of deep tissue massage.

This type of treatment may use Swedish massage techniques, such as trigger point therapy, assisted stretching, Active Release Technique, joint manipulation as well as deep tissue petrissage to release muscles and relieve pain.

Pros:

Pain relief thru the use of deep tissue massage.

Any kind of muscle pain or stiffness can be helped using deep tissue massage. Ongoing treatment can go a long way in treating muscle dysfunction caused by chronic tension, which can ultimately be a great pain reliever.

Deep tissue massage may improve muscle condition.

Deep tissue massage frees muscles, ligaments, and tendons of stress and tension that can cause knots, spasms, and stiffness. These benefits improve muscle condition in a way that results in better posture and greater flexibility, which lends to better overall fitness and well being.

Cons:

The intuitive need.

Massage is not an exact science. A massage therapist must have not only a physical feel for how the massage is working on the muscles, but also a mental feel – or intuition – about how to best work tension out of muscles. If a massage therapist goes too fast or is too intrusive, it can cause the client’s muscles to tense up, which is counterproductive and can cause pain.

Side effects of  deep tissue massage.

Even a deep tissue massage that is perfectly administered is likely to result in some side effects afterward. These might include muscle soreness, tenderness, fatigue, redness, and swolleneness. Side effects should be very mild, though, and will be minimal if the massage therapist is careful about her technique. These side effects often disappear within a day or so, leaving you feeling better than you felt before.

Unlike basic massage, which is used primarily for relaxation, deep tissue massage can be a great therapeutic tool for many of the body’s aches, pains, and chronic conditions. It is important that you find a practitioner who is well trained and who has a natural feel for providing this powerful therapy, so be sure to do your research before choosing a masseuse, and be sure to consult with a physician if your back pain is caused by a medical condition, or if you are in recovery from an accident.