The Origins of Deep Tissue Massage
Originating from the USA, Deep Tissue massage is a technique that can be quite intense and is applied to the deep muscle layers of the body.
Deep Tissue is not a standalone “massage” because it is rare for me to apply its techniques to the entire body. Instead, it is a set of deep massage techniques used according to your previously identified needs, ideally combined with Swedish massage, which can already be quite intense.
These techniques are performed using the forearms, fists, thumbs, or elbows. Careful listening, slowness, and precision are essential. Regular feedback and communication between us will be crucial to ensure you receive the maximum benefits!
The practice of Deep Tissue requires genuine expertise and attentive listening at all times. It is not about “causing pain for the sake of pain,” as some may think. A methodology that considers the order and nature of the techniques allows for desensitization of the skin receptors and muscles before reaching the deeper layers.
The Benefits
Deep Tissue massage helps to:
- Restore balanced posture to the body (after several sessions).
- Break down adhesions, release structures to restore their initial movement.
- Create space between the muscles and their fascia.
- Create space between the fascia layers.
- Facilitate better sliding of the structures over one another.
- Relax the muscles.
- Allow the nerves, blood vessels, and lymphatics to 'breathe' better.
- Promote harmony among all the structures.
- Break down adhesions: When adhesions occur, the fascia thickens, forming scar tissue, which will dissolve once the adhesions are broken down through the work of the massage therapist.
Contraindications
- Fever
- Infectious diseases (bacterial or viral)
- Recent surgical intervention (less than three months ago)
- Recent fractures and injuries
- Bone and skeletal disorders (osteoporosis, etc.)
- Circulatory disorders (lymphangitis, phlebitis, significant varicose veins, arteriosclerosis, etc.)
- Blood clotting disorders (hemophilia, thrombosis, hematoma)
- Skin inflammations (dermatoses, skin infections, burns, recent wounds or scars, open wounds, cuts)
- Severe pathologies (cancer, tumors, etc.)
- Early pregnancy or high-risk pregnancy