Why Deep Tissue

Many of my new clients come to me for 1 reason -- deep tissue massage. I have a reputation -- my hands are strong from years of playing the piano and working in the garden! But what really is deep tissue massage? After talking with my clients I realize that many are really asking for is deep/firm PRESSURE, not deep tissue.


Here's the difference.



DEEP/FIRM PRESSURE is usually what I describe as integrated massage. It's basis is Swedish or relaxation massage, with long stokes moving tissue and lymphatic fluid towards the heart. This is the kind of massage that makes you 'feel good,' releases tension, promotes healing, etc. When I give a firm pressure massage I usually incorporate DEEP TISSUE work with my firmer massage. In a typical 1 hour massage I may use DT for 5 - 10 minutes where I and the client feels it needs to be used. The rest of the session focuses on firm Swedish massage to include all body parts.

Do you work out? Well, deep tissue is not the answer! Muscles that are dense and tight need to be stretched out, not forced apart. Here's an example. I had a recent client who wanted DT, complaining on a 'knot' near his right shoulder blade. But when I started working on his back I found that his entire scapula was frozen -- the muscles in this area were so tight that they wouldn't let this bone move at all. It was only after doing some passive stretches and movement that the shoulder blade freed up. And guess what -- the 'knot' disappeared.

True deep tissue massage can do more harm than good on overworked, overextended muscles. I can suggest stretches which are easy and effective, but only work if you use them! We should be looking at strength AND flexibility, not just bulk.



DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE is almost the opposite of Swedish/Integrative Massage -- instead of long strokes, specific points are held until that point 'releases.' Often DT focuses on one muscle or muscle group (like the muscles surrounding a shoulder). Reasons for using DT include injuries/scar tissue buildup, chronic/repetitive muscle issues, and trigger point therapy. Usually this technique includes warming up the muscle tissue with gentler strokes before moving forward. Only after the muscle has loosened is deeper pressure apply. In fact, using deep tissue techniques without warming up muscles first can injure tissue. One of my massage instructors nicely called it 'being invited into the muscle' (thanks Julie!). All of this takes time. My 1 hour DT massage focuses on 1 or 2 specific areas -- say, the shoulders, or lower back. Other areas of the body do not receive massage at all.

So if you're looking for a full body Deep Tissue massage, please be sure to schedule at 1 1/2 or 2 hour session!

Many other Massage Therapists advertise they do deep tissue massage. Be sure to ask for their definition before you make an appointment!



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