Research shows that regular deep tissue massage can improve blood pressure and reduce stress. The stress and anxiety you experience from working out will subside when you get a deep tissue massage.
Deep tissue massage is especially beneficial for athletes and people who lift heavy weights. The muscles you work out with are tight and prone to injury. It is, therefore, a good idea to schedule an appointment every two weeks. Further, regular massages have other health benefits.
What is a deep tissue massage?
The benefits of a deep tissue massage are numerous. This therapeutic massage is prevalent among athletes, runners, and people who suffer from chronic muscle injuries. In addition to relieving acute pain, it can also be used for people with lower back pain or chronic conditions.
Studies have shown that people with fibromyalgia reported immediate relief from pain and decreased levels of anxiety and depression. Because the technique involves working deep into the muscle. It can cause soreness and tenderness, which may persist for a few days afterward.
Although deep tissue massage is a highly effective form of massage therapy, it can also be harmful to the body. Some people experiencing discomfort from a deep tissue massage should consider getting another type of therapy. Some people with fibromyalgia should avoid it altogether since the pressure is too much for their joints. Moreover, deep tissue works on scar tissue, which forms when the injury heals.
Deep tissue massage techniques
The best massage therapists use various techniques to treat a wide range of conditions. Among the most popular designs is deep tissue massage. This method is more intense than the average session and involves using little or no lubricant.
This technique aims to stretch and lengthen the muscles and separate adhesions. The strokes used in this technique will be shorter and slower than in other types of massage. The massage therapist aims to change the body’s structure while providing a complete change.
While the history of deep tissue massage is unclear, its effectiveness has been demonstrated in treating various conditions. In the case of chronic pain, it can help prevent and even alleviate the onset of arthritis. The techniques used for deep tissue massage also improve circulation.
Increased circulation will facilitate the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the muscle cells. In addition, improved blood circulation will reduce the risk of swelling in soft tissues and decrease the likelihood of injury.
The therapist may use their forearm, elbow, knuckles, and thumbs to apply pressure across muscle fibers. As the name suggests, friction releases adhesions and realigns tissue. This technique can cause discomfort and stiffness afterward, so it is recommended that you drink plenty of water later.
5 Benefits of deep tissue massage
One of the health benefits of deep tissue massage is reducing inflammation and muscle spasms. These two benefits have been linked to massage. The most common benefits of deep tissue massage are listed below.
Pain relief
A 2016 case study suggested that massage helped a pregnant woman with lower back pain. It also increases serotonin levels in the body and decreases pain in the legs.
In addition to physical health, this type of massage improves mental wellbeing and can improve respiratory function.
Stress relief
A deep tissue massage is an excellent way to relieve stress and tension. It can reduce blood pressure and improve lung function.
However, it is crucial to drink plenty of water before a deep tissue massage to make it more comfortable for you.
Lowers blood pressure
Several studies have shown that it does, but there is no concrete evidence. Your physician can add a massage to your treatment plan or prescribe a medication to decrease blood pressure. It is essential to know your health history, and your doctor will make sure that you get the right kind of massage.
One study conducted in Texas found that deep tissue massage can decrease blood pressure. People who had hypertension were more likely to have lower blood pressure after receiving the therapy.
In one study, subjects with high blood pressure reported that their systolic pressure decreased by 10.4 mm Hg and their diastolic pressure dropped by 5.3 mm Hg.
Reduces arthritis symptoms
Some types of massage may not be appropriate for people with acutely inflamed joints. In contrast, others may work well for those with chronic inflammation.
Various forms of massage help alleviate the pain of different types of arthritis. Some types of massage improve circulation in the arthritic joints, which reduces swelling and pain. This helps people living with arthritis improve their quality of life.
Rehabilitates injured muscles
Deep tissue massage increases the body’s circulation by flushing out waste products. It also reduces inflammation and improves the range of motion. It is also recommended after surgery and for those suffering from osteoporosis or cancer of the bones.
A deep-tissue massage is an excellent treatment for recovering muscle tissue. It helps to decrease the pain associated with sports injuries. It allows the body to return to a normal state of health. As a result, a deep-tissue massage is highly effective for alleviating the pain caused by injuries.
Important tips to follow
While massage can dehydrate your body, remaining hydrated to ensure the best results is crucial.
Your muscles will feel more relaxed and can relax by increasing blood circulation. In addition, you’ll experience an increased range of motion and flexibility.
Long-term benefits of deep tissue massage
Many people swear by the long-term benefits of deep tissue massage. A regular session can help you resolve muscle tension and relieve chronic pain. Unlike a traditional massage, this type of treatment doesn’t require invasive surgery or other medical procedures.
Overall health and fitness
Whether a single treatment or a series of treatments, deep tissue massage can improve your overall health and fitness level. It’s a beautiful way to improve your physical condition and stay fit!
Athletes performance
Studies have shown that deep tissue massage can help athletes reduce stress and increase their range of motion. This can help athletes improve performance by reducing lactic acid buildup in their muscles.
Reduce postpartum depression
The benefits of massage are not limited to athletes. They can also reduce anxiety and reduce depression. The psychological benefits of this treatment are also substantial. It can even reduce postpartum depression. In addition, it increases circulation, which can be beneficial for those with heart disease and high blood pressure.
Improves respiratory functions
In addition to improving mental health, deep tissue massage helps with respiratory function, digestion, and chronic constipation. Many people who get massages also report improved sleep and decreased stress. The relaxation associated with these sessions has long been proven to help treat various conditions, including insomnia.
Deep tissue massage benefits for athletes
Athletes who undergo deep tissue massages tend to perform better than athletes with less tension. This is because the process reduces muscle tension and improves relaxation. It also increases range of motion and flexibility.
The body also recovers from physical activity faster, allowing the athlete to perform better the next day. It can help prevent injury and increase performance. In addition, deep tissue massages can relax the body and help an athlete focus on their sport.
In addition to helping athletes with specific injuries, deep tissue massage is beneficial for the athlete’s overall health. It can reduce blood pressure and improve lung function. It also helps to relax the body before a deep tissue massage.
A deep-tissue massage can dehydrate the body, making it easier for the masseuse to work on specific muscles. Moreover, it can help the athlete achieve more restful sleep, crucial to recovery.
Regular deep-tissue massages help athletes increase their range of motion. More flexible athletes have a higher chance of winning. As a result, deep tissue massages increase an athlete’s flexibility and range of motion.
They break down muscle tightness, stretch muscle fibers, and reduce scar tissue to improve flexibility. Athletes who regularly get deep-tissue massages report increased range of motion and decreased pain.
What to do after a deep tissue massage?
After a deep tissue massage, what to do can help you recover from your appointment faster and feel better for longer. A massage helps relax your muscles and gives you a peaceful sense of wellbeing afterward.
Following these steps will ensure your muscles recover properly and quickly after your session.
- A water bottle will help flush out the toxins and lactic acid that the massage has released. Drink plenty of water before and after your session to stay hydrated and avoid muscle aches and pains.
- Rest is crucial after a deep tissue massage. You should make sure you have ample time to recuperate. You should avoid strenuous exercise right after your treatment.
- Stretching after a massage will help the body flush out toxins and prevent muscle pain afterward.
- Try to rest for at least two hours before trying to get back into your workout routine.
- You should also avoid running, as your muscles are still sore and tender. Gentle stretching is beneficial for your strengths as well as for your recovery.
- After your deep tissue massage, you should avoid heavy lifting or exercising.
How long do the benefits of deep tissue massage last?
Deep tissue massage is an excellent choice for individuals who experience chronic muscle pain, muscle tightness, and injuries. It can also benefit those suffering from trigger points, tiny knots, or muscles within the tissue.
The benefits of deep tissue massage are well-known. Still, it’s essential to communicate your medical history with your massage therapist to ensure you are not at risk of any potential side effects. In the worst-case scenario, the massage could aggravate your condition.
After a deep tissue massage, the best thing you can do is to drink plenty of water. This will flush out toxins and help your body heal faster. You should also stay away from alcohol and caffeine.
While deep tissue massage is an excellent treatment for many conditions, it should be conducted by a qualified professional. This way, you won’t increase the risk of severe side effects or aggravation of existing conditions.
