Deep tissue massages are a form of pressure treatment. Deep tissue massage incorporates slow strokes with strong finger pressure to release muscular tension and stiffness. The primary pain area is generally the focus of deep tissue massage. Neck, neck shoulders, buttocks, and legs are some of the most common areas treated. It’s also used on arms and toes, such as with plantar fasciitis. Increased pressure relieves discomfort brought on by injury or constriction.
With the time and amount of money invested in getting a massage therapy, it is important to prepare ahead of time and have a strategy in place for what to do afterward.
Before The Massage
There are a few things you can do to prepare for deep tissue massage. It’s important to drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your massage. This will help to ensure that your muscles are properly hydrated, making them more receptive to deep tissue manipulation. You should also avoid eating a large meal before your massage, as this can lead to discomfort during the session.
It’s also helpful to avoid any strenuous activity in the hours leading up to your deep tissue massage. If you’re feeling particularly tense or sore, it may be beneficial to take a hot bath or shower before your appointment. The heat will help loosen your muscles and make them more pliable for deep tissue work.
During The Massage
When you arrive for a deep tissue massage, your therapist will likely ask you about any pain or discomfort you’re currently experiencing. It’s important to be as open and honest as possible during this conversation, as it will help them to tailor the session to your specific needs. Once you’re both on the same page, they’ll begin the massage.
Deep tissue work can sometimes be uncomfortable, but it shouldn’t be unbearable. If at any point during the massage you start to feel sharp pain or excessive pressure, let your therapist know immediately. They can adjust their technique accordingly.
After The Massage
After a massage, many people feel great. However, the pain often returns within 24 hours or less in some cases. Thankfully, there are several things you can do after your massage to help your treatment last longer and keep you from getting as sore.
Have A Bath
How does one feel about soaking in a hot bath? I’ve heard it before — sink into hot water after a massage! You can take some time for relaxation in this way as described above. Add Epsom salt to the bathroom to relieve itchiness. The magnesium in Epsom salt is absorbed through skin whilst hot water is used for re-opening the blood vessels thus increasing circulation. You may buy Epsom salt at most superstores or pharmacies and they usually cost a bit of money.
Sleep On Your Back
Sleeping on your stomach can reverse the effects of a deep tissue massage. Because deep tissue massages work out knots and tension deep in your muscles, sleeping face down after treatment can make the pain worse. So instead, spend the night on your back or side, and take advantage of the extra relaxation to get some deep, restful sleep.
Drink Lots Of Water
Drinking plenty of water helps to flush out toxins that have been released from your muscles during the massage. It also helps to keep your muscles hydrated, which prevents cramping and soreness. aim for eight glasses of water per day, and increase your intake if you exercise regularly or are exposed to hot weather.
Apply Ice
If you experience any pain or discomfort in the days following your deep tissue massage, you can apply ice to the affected area. Wrap a pack of ice in a towel and apply it to the area for 15-20 minutes at a time. This will help to reduce inflammation and pain.
Take It Easy
Avoid strenuous activity for the first 24 hours after your deep tissue massage. This includes things like running, heavy lifting, and cardio exercises. Instead, take a walk, go for a light swim, or do some gentle stretching. This will help your body to recover from the treatment and avoid further injury.
Avoid Taking Alcohol
Massage can help to improve circulation and increase blood flow throughout your body. Alcohol, on the other hand, is a vasodilator, which means it widens your blood vessels and can actually decrease blood flow. So while a post-massage cocktail might sound like a good idea, it’s actually not the best choice for recovery. Stick to water or herbal tea instead.
Use Your Foam Roller And Tennis Ball
A foam roller and tennis balls are two relatively simple tools that can do a lot to help you feel good between doctor’s visits or massages, and work on problem areas with little effort. Just search for “foam roller” on YouTube, and you’ll find hundreds of videos showing how to use one effectively.
Do All Of Your Stretches
Stretches and exercises can go a long way toward relieving your body’s stress points. For example, stretching out your pectoral muscles through the front of your chest may help open up your shoulders. To strengthen your shoulder blades, perform a stretch while exercising the rhomboid muscles. The typical American posture is excessively tense pectorals and weak rhomboid muscles, which causes forward rounded shoulders. A little time to stretch out the overly tight muscle tissue and build up stronger weaker tissues might help with mid-back discomfort as well as headaches.
Conclusion
Deep tissue massages are intended to treat deep-seated muscular discomfort. The therapist uses slow, deep strokes to massage the inner components of your muscles and connective tissues.
Massages can help with chronic pain. It’s critical to note what to do after therapy to aid your body in recovering properly. Only get massages as often as you can stand them if you prefer deep tissue massages that are too strong. You may try a different type of massage or talk to your therapist about ways to make the experience more pleasant for you if deep tissue massages are too harsh for you.
