Deep Tissue Massage in Albuquerque
More and more people are discovering the benefits of massage therapy. Your own doctor may even recommend regular sessions. Before committing to the experience, it might be helpful to understand more about what is involved in this type of therapeutic massage.
Therapeutic massage is more than just a luxury; it’s a powerful technique that can address various physical ailments. Many clients find that regular sessions can significantly reduce their pain levels and improve mobility.
What Can I Expect from a Deep Tissue Massage?
If you’re already experienced with other types of massages, you might assume that this is just another term for a Swedish massage. While some of the techniques may seem a little similar, the intent of this massage is much different.
In contrast to lighter techniques, this massage engages the deeper layers of muscle and fascia. This is crucial for those who have chronic pain or specific injuries. For instance, athletes often utilize this type of therapy not only to recover from injuries but also to enhance their performance by maintaining optimal muscle function.
A deep tissue massage begins with the therapist providing light pressure. This is similar to stretching, before beginning any physical exercise, in that it prepares the muscles for a more intensive workout. Once the muscles are warmed up, the therapist will begin the deep muscle techniques. They include:
Throughout the session, the therapist may also incorporate other modalities such as trigger point therapy, which targets hyperirritable spots within the muscle that can cause referred pain. This multi-faceted approach ensures a comprehensive treatment that addresses not only the symptoms but also the underlying causes of discomfort.
- Stripping – A process of gliding the hands along the muscles to provide a deeply reaching pressure. The therapist will utilize his thumbs, knuckles, forearm, and thumbs in this technique.
- Friction – Here, pressure is applied in a direction opposite of the grain of the muscle. This helps to bring the muscle fibers back into alignment.
Because deep pressure is applied, you may feel some discomfort or pain during the process. However, as you get used to receiving this type of massage, this type of “pain” will eventually be experienced as “good pain” by the client.
Understanding the difference between good and bad pain is essential for clients. Good pain is often a sign that the muscle is being effectively manipulated, promoting circulation and releasing endorphins, while bad pain could indicate injury or excessive pressure. It’s vital for clients to communicate openly with their therapists about their comfort levels throughout the session.
The Benefits of a Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue massages can also integrate elements of myofascial release, a technique that focuses on relieving tension in the fascia surrounding muscles.
While scientific research is limited on the issue of what health benefits a deep tissue massage provides, patients continuously report the same benefits. The following health improvements have been shared by many individuals, after undergoing a deep tissue massage:
Clients who experience chronic stress may also find significant benefits from deep tissue massage. The therapeutic touch aids in physical relief and contributes to psychological well-being by reducing cortisol levels and promoting relaxation.
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- Relief of neck pain and upper back pain
- Relief of lower back pain
- Relief of pain caused by Fibromyalgia
- Alleviation of Tennis elbow symptoms
- Reduced symptoms of Piriformis syndrome
- Fewer symptoms of Sciatica
- Alleviation of Osteoarthritis pain
Many clients report experiencing reduced muscle tension and improved circulation after just one session. Chronic conditions such as arthritis can also see marked improvement through regular deep tissue massages.
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- Release of muscle tension in problem areas
- Improved posture
- Relief from repetitive strain injuries (carpal tunnel syndrome, etc.)
- Faster recovery from injuries
Recovery from injuries is another significant advantage of this type of therapy. For instance, athletes recovering from an injury can benefit from the enhanced blood flow to the affected area, which promotes healing.
If you would like to know more about deep tissue massages, contact us at (505) 235-8032 for an initial consultation.
To experience the full range of benefits, it is often recommended to engage in a series of sessions rather than relying solely on a single treatment.
