Deep tissue pain can have many causes, but often not many solutions; a deep tissue massage could be just what you need to release that tension. Visit Hawaii Natural Therapy for more information or to schedule a deep tissue massage in Honolulu today!
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You’ve heard the phrase, “pressure forms diamonds” haven’t you? Well, sometimes a little extra pressure can create something beautiful! In this case, we’re talking about Deep Tissue massage and the incredible healing benefits it offers through releasing tension throughout the body.
The precise origin of deep tissue massage has not been clearly identified but experts believe that this modality dates back to use by ancient Egyptians. Later in history we see clear evidence of deep tissue massage around the 19th century was used in Canada to treat different medical conditions, namely whiplash. In the late 1800s, deep tissue massage was introduced in the United States but was not practiced much at that time. A Canadian physical therapist by the name of Therese Pfrimmer developed a clear procedure in 1946 for the modality while attempting to recover from paralysis in her legs. Therese published a book in 1970 by the title of “Muscles: Your Invisible Bonds” and deep tissue massage expanded throughout the United States and globally in popular use addressing soft-tissue injuries and more chronic pain.
Deep tissue massage has since been established to treat a wide range of conditions such as musculoskeletal complications (strains or sports injuries).
This style of massage therapy is designed to release tension within deeper layers of the fascia and below through the muscle; reaching through these layers can help improve mobility, reduce pain exponentially and release tightness in problem areas.
You may have heard some of the common myths about deep tissue massage - for example, “deep tissue massage can be painful and leave you with a lot of bruising”, this is not true! Your massage therapist will speak with you about any questions or concerns you may have, but rest assured that your comfort and relaxation will always be top priority at Hawaii Natural Therapy!
Here are a few more common misconceptions about deep tissue massage:
There are far more that just eight benefits of deep tissue massage, but we thought we’d start with just a few of the top reasons you should consider a deep tissue massage:
Depth of pressure is the number one difference between deep tissue and Swedish massage. The therapist will use a light gliding style during Swedish massage sessions vs a weighted depth of pressure of a deep tissue massage.
The Swedish modality is a lot gentler and focuses on the superficial layer of your muscles, it is typically aimed to promote calmness and reduce everyday muscle tension. Swedish massage should lead the body into full relaxation with a light to medium pressure.
Deep tissue massage is aimed to target specific areas of pain and tension, and can aid in treating sports related injury around muscles and tendons. The benefits of a Swedish massage are incorporated into a deep tissue style massage for all inclusive healing. Someone with high levels of stress would more than likely opt for a deep tissue massage over a Swedish style for the additional benefits. For areas like the lower back, shoulders and stiffness in the neck; deep tissue targets the inner layer of your muscles and releases tension to open mobility of joints. Deep tissue is perfect for anyone experiencing posture issues, osteoarthritis, any muscle tension, or chronic pain.
Deep tissue massages should not have to be a painful experience for anyone! The client should always take the lead based on the individual level of pain or discomfort experienced, there may be times where multiple sessions are needed to address a specific problem area. Person to person, everyone has a different threshold for pain, please make sure to communicate this with your therapist for the best results. You should feel comfortable speaking directly to your therapist about a plan of treatment. You should never bruise from a deep tissue massage, be sure you are always seeking a trainer professional for treatment.
Although the goal of a deep tissue massage is not to hurt you, the common misconception that “deep tissue massage is painful” has a slight truth to it. There is a slight discomfort that comes with the pressure falling directly on a problem area, however the release and relief experienced post session is often more than worth the few moments of discomfort. Feedback during your session is always important, make sure communication and dialog are open so long as you need to continue to update your therapist. Deeper and deeper is not always better, if you’re feeling extreme discomfort during your session or if a problem area is too painful to put pressure on, tell your massage therapist and they will adjust!
Speak with your doctor for approval prior to treatment if you have issues with blood clotting, have had very recent injury, are over the age of 55 or have any major health risks.
If you are experiencing chronic muscle pain or tension, deep tissue massage could be beneficial for you to schedule a deep tissue massage weekly or bi-weekly until the problem area is treated or pain has subsided.
Contact us today to schedule your Deep Tissue massage in Honolulu at our massage clinic, featuring carefully curated massage rooms each representing a different location on the Hawaii islands. At Hawaii Natural Therapy we are your Deep Tissue massage specialists, visit one of our talented therapists for your next service. Book online for a single or couples massage!
Call us today to ask us for more information (808) 200-4611.
Sources: Hawaii Natural Therapy (www.bestoahumassage.com), International Pfrimmer Association (www.pfrimmer.com)
