When it comes to massage therapy, there are so many options out there—from spa-like, relaxation massages, to prenatal or sports massages, to lymphatic drainage massages. Each has its own benefits, depending on what you’re looking for in a massage.
Here, we’re going to talk about deep tissue massage—what it involves, who it’s for, and the benefits you can expect from your massage therapy.
What is a deep tissue massage?
A deep tissue massage is a therapeutic massage treatment where firm pressure is applied to reach deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue.
Who can benefit from a deep tissue massage?
In short: anyone. Deep tissue massages are beneficial not only for athletes or really muscular people but can be useful for many different people who may be experiencing pain, particularly muscle pain, decreased range of motion, or deep achiness related to muscles and joints.
A lot of times, when you feel tightness in your muscles on the surface, it actually starts at a deeper level. A more superficial treatment, like a traditional soft tissue massage, may help with some of these issues and help you feel better and looser temporarily. However, it might not be addressing some of those deeper contributing factors, which is why a deep tissue massage is aimed at getting to some of those deeper areas that are affecting things like pain or mobility.
What can I expect when I come in for a deep tissue massage?
An image may pop into your head of a massage therapist jumping onto the table, sticking their elbow into your hip muscle or shoulder, and just pressing with all their might right away. However, that’s far from accurate! With deep tissue massage therapy, it’s important for your therapist to slowly work into the tissue, starting on the surface and slowly adding more pressure over time. This process slowly causes relaxation on the surface, allowing us to work toward addressing some of the deeper, underlying issues and symptoms you’re experiencing.
If you’re someone who may be worried about having too much pressure put on you, we’re here to assure you that you don’t need to be! Our massage therapists take a customized approach with every single patient that comes through Endeavour and will work with you to find a rate of pressure that works for you and that your body needs. They’ll also identify and target the areas where deeper pressure will be most beneficial to you, and avoid areas where it may be counterproductive for your body and your goals.
What to expect after your massage treatment
You may experience some soreness after your treatment which should subside after about 24 hours, at which point you’ll likely start feeling better, looser, more mobile, and less in pain. We also recommend that you keep hydrated after your treatment, especially in the first 48 hours, as well as performing any exercises or movements recommended by your massage therapist to make sure you get a full, lasting benefit from your massage therapy treatment.
Looking for a massage therapy clinic in Toronto? Contact us at Endeavour to learn more and book your treatment.