What is Deep Tissue Massage Therapy?

Deep-tissue massage is a massage therapy technique that involves manipulating the deepest layers of muscle, fascia, and connective tissues. This type of massage uses long, firm, slow strokes to lengthen, relax, and release tension from the muscles and other tissues.

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Deep-tissue massage typically focuses on the larger muscle groups, including the:

• Neck

• Back

• Shoulders

• Buttocks

• Thighs

Sports massage is a form of deep-tissue massage that helps athletes protect their muscles and joints. The treatment helps them recover more quickly after an injury or intense physical activity, too. Deep tissue massage is more specifically focused on chronic muscle tension and stress reduction.

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What are the benefits of Deep Tissue Massage Therapy?

The benefits deep-tissue massage can provide include: 

• Increased blood and lymphatic circulation 

• Decreased blood pressure

• Reduced inflammation 

• Released scar tissue and adhesions

• Increased relaxation 

• Improved athletic performance

• Improved mobility 

• Quicker recovery after a muscle or joint injury

• Decreased discomfort during pregnancy and labor

The massage therapists at AIM Health are certified and highly skilled at giving deep-tissue massage and adapting each session to fit your needs. 

Whether you’re pregnant, you’re an elite athlete, or you suffer from a chronic illness, they customize your massage experience to support your best health.

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What illnesses can Deep Tissue Massage help treat?

Deep-tissue massage and other forms of massage therapy help to reduce symptoms of chronic illnesses, including:

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• High blood pressure

• Anxiety and depression 

• Addiction 

• Arthritis 

• Chronic neck and back pain 

• Sciatica 

• Fibromyalgia 

 

Deep-tissue massage can also help improve recovery times after surgery or orthopedic injury, and may complement orthopedic massage therapy. It enhances the healing process by stimulating blood flow and the healing immune response to the areas of injury and inflammation.

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How is deep tissue massage therapy different from other types of massage therapy?

There are three main differences between deep-tissue massage and other styles of massage: the purpose, pressure, and depth

 

Purpose of treatment

Deep-tissue massage primarily focuses on relieving pain, preventing injury, and healing injured muscles and other tissues. Swedish massage focuses on relaxation and generalized muscle tension.

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Pressure

Deep-tissue massage uses hands, fingers, elbows, and forearms to create long, deep, firm strokes. Swedish massage uses gentler, lighter strokes using primarily the hands, palms, and fingers. 

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Depth

Deep-tissue massage impacts the deepest layers of the larger muscle groups and joints, including fascia, tendons, ligaments, and areas of injury. Swedish massage applies pressure to the more superficial layers of muscle and focuses on areas with generalized tension, such as the shoulders, back, and neck. 

 

Based on your health history and goals for your session, your massage therapist may recommend deep-tissue, Swedish, or another type of massage. They work closely with you to determine which one is the safest and most effective to meet your needs. 

 

For an expert deep-tissue massage, call AIM Health or schedule an appointment online today.