While massages are known to be a proven relaxation method, the benefits actually go beyond just relaxing. Betty Stengel, licensed Massage Therapist at Integrated Medical Solutions, answers all of your questions about deep tissue massage.
Q: What are the benefits of a deep tissue massage?
A:
Blood pressure can be reduced
Joint mobility is increased
Scar tissue breaks down
Helps relieve stress
Relief of arthritis symptoms and pain
Deeper pressure is beneficial to reduce chronic muscle tension
Q: How often should you get a deep tissue massage?
A: How often you receive a massage is dependent on the individual. If an injury is involved, you might receive a massage two or three times a week for a couple of weeks. If a massage is more for stress relief/ muscle tension, the individual might receive a massage monthly.
Q: Is it safe for everyone to get a massage?
A: There are situations when massage is not in the client/ guest/ patient’s best interest. For example, I am personally not comfortable giving a massage to a pregnant guest who is not in her second trimester or beyond. Other contra-indications are elevated blood pressure, too soon after surgical procedures, the person is physically ill with a fever, cough and stomach issues.
Q: What is the difference between a regular (Swedish) massage and a deep tissue massage?
A: Swedish massage increases stress relief and is better for relaxation. It also helps increase the immune system functions and blood circulation is improved. Deep tissue massage uses much more pressure to work the deepest layers of the muscle tissues, tendons, and fascia.
Both Swedish and deep tissue massage help with anxiety and stress, though Swedish massage will feel better for stress and anxiety relief.
Q: Do deep tissue massages hurt?
A: Deep tissue massage does not have to hurt, especially if the guest is adequately hydrated before and after the massage.
The guest should also stay in communication with the therapist if their comfort level has been compromised.
Q: Why is it so important to stay hydrated after a massage?
A: It’s not normal to feel sick after a massage. The difference between those who feel well and those who don’t is the amount of water that they consume.
Massage is dehydrating because of the work being done on the muscles and tendons, and drinking water allows the kidneys to effective release the waste generated by the massage to get the wastes out of the body.
Q: Is it true massages release lactic acid and/or metabolic waste?
A: There is no scientific evidence that states massage removes toxins from the body. The best way to protect yourself from getting toxins in your body is to avoid putting toxins in your body. Drink pure water, keep the kidneys free from stressors, such as coffee, alcohol, and excessive protein.
Interested in a deep tissue massage? Contact us today.
Disclaimer: The information contained on this site is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for advice, diagnosis or treatment by a licensed physician. It is not meant to cover all possible precautions, drug interactions, circumstances or adverse effects. You should seek prompt medical care for any health issues and consult your doctor before using alternative medicine or making a change to your regimen.