A few years ago, I took a course on how to successfully and appropriately apply deep tissue massage techniques into my practice to help my clients heal. I have seen some amazing results from even one simple treatment. However, there are certain situations where a deep tissue massage would be an inappropriate form of treatment. I wanted to write an article to set the record straight on what deep tissue massage therapy is and proper care to let the body heal.
A lot of people have the “no pain, no gain” mind set, believing that more pressure is always better and that massage therapy should be painful. It can be common for clients to feel a bit of discomfort for a day or two following one of my massage treatments. It is usually the good kind of soreness, like after a really good workout. If the sensation is still present after a few days, it means that we worked too deep for your body. For your first few treatments, I usually don’t go too deep. This is to make sure your body gets used to the techniques and reduce the chance of post-massage soreness. By establishing a pain scale from 0-10 and finding the character of the pain can help to determine if a deep tissue massage is appropriate. Using the chart below, please keep in mind that massage treatments should never go above a 7.
Much like a workout, deep tissue massage challenges the soft tissues of the body. The techniques are intended to release tension and adhesions in the connective tissues to allow for freer movement, but can cause swelling in the tissues. I always give small reminders for proper home care to help eliminate these side effects. This usually includes applying ice. Cold therapy will help promote drainage of the area and shut down the pain receptors for short term pain relief (please review my Hydrotherapy Part 1 for more information). Going for a small walk will help stretch the tissues and promote drainage. A quick walk can help you to feel rejuvenated and fresh. The exercise program we discuss will help restore the tissues to a proper length (Back In Balance Therapeutic Massage).
The deep tissue massage techniques I can incorporate into the treatments can be broken down into three different and unique catagories (Mally, 2008):
Elbow Techniques: by using my the broad surfaces of my elbow, I am able to use my body weight to apply a deeper pressure, sinking into the structures to release tension.
Stretching Techniques: these techniques are preformed slowly to target certain structures and train your body to get more range of motion.
Joint Mobilization Techniques: these mobilizations are beneficial for increase range of motion in the joints. It is important to note that they are NOT chiropractic adjustments- they are slow and gentle movements to help ease pain and increase mobility. They can be used to prepare your body for receiving a chiropractic adjustment.
Here are some examples of when deep tissue massage may not be appropriate (Mally, 2008):
Pain: as mentioned earlier, pain may signify tension being released. But there is a difference between that type of pain and pain being inflicted by massage therapy. It is important to keep the lines of communication open to avoid unnecessary damage to the tissues.
Drugs/Alcohol: keeping your system clear of toxins will not interfere with your feedback.
Inflammation: deep tissue massage can draw more fluid to an area. If it is already inflamed, other techniques will be beneficial.
Infections/Fever: generally, massage is contraindicated as it can spread the condition and make it worse.
High Blood Pressure: deep tissue massage temporarily increases blood pressure before it lowers it. This increased demand on the heart can cause serious damage (even if it is minimal).
Impairment of Nerve Function: if there is a lack of sensation to an area, deep tissue massage can cause damage without you even knowing it.
Deep tissue massage can be very beneficial if it applied appropriately. It is very important to keep me informed of any changes that are happening before, during and after your massage treatment. This information is beneficial in formulating a treatment plan that is appropriate for you, and reaching your treatment goals.
How was your response to my deep tissue massage treatments? Did you notice any changes? If you are a new client to me, do you have any reservations or concerns regarding deep tissue massage?
Please feel free to ask me any questions! Thank you for taking the time to read this article. I hope you enjoyed reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it.
References:
Back In Balance Therapeutic Massage. (n.d.) After Your Massage. Retreived on May 10th 2015 from http://www.bibtherapeuticmassage.com/after-your-massage/
Deep Tissue Massage with Dr. James Mally [Motion picture on DVD]. (2008). United States of America: Abundant Health.
Pain Scale Retreieved from Hyperbole And A Half for the Better Pain Scale from: http://jezebel.com/5878712/when-a-lady-hurts-she-hurts-more-than-a-man
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