Deep Tissue Massage
While a normal relaxing Swedish massage targets the superficial layers of muscle (closest to the skin), Deep tissue massage targets deeper layers of muscle as well as connective tissue. Not recommended for your first try at massage therapy, unless you know what you are getting yourself into.
This type of massage is performed on a massage table. The therapist will use firm to deep pressure using thumbs, forearms, elbows, and even knees to work into the person's body. Popular massage techniques used primarily in this massage is a combination of both effleurage (short/long strokes) and compression (deeper pressure) to target problem areas. Friction techniques may be used to break up body adhesion's from scarring.
Why would you want this type of massage? Unlike a relaxation massage, there may be some discomfort and pain when this massage is performed. It is important to tell your therapist if the pain or discomfort is out of your comfort zone. If the massage is too painful, there is a chance you'll be in more pain walking out than when you first walked in. Deep tissue massage works on specific problems such as chronic pain, lower back pain, postural problems, and restriction in movement to name a few areas it does well in.
This type of massage is also good for people that find deeper massage more relaxing than a regular Swedish massage. At Pain Relief Massage, this massage is used commonly with Neuro-muscular & Trigger Point Therapies to provide the best results. Have muscle problems? Try deep tissue massage! Easy online scheduling HERE.