Ron started working out when his weight reached 110kg last year. Thanks to his hard work, (super-human) dedication, and focus, he managed to lose 30kg in 7 months with the support of his online trainer. He started to feel healthy, lighter, and happy. He was very particular about his performance every day. With time he noticed he had been feeling (physically) tired, his joints started to feel sore, and sometimes his muscles had cramps even after drinking plenty of water.
He knew he needed to get a massage service asap. He could understand how his joints and certain muscle areas felt sore, especially in the lower back, upper back, shoulders, knees, and feet. Well, the classic fatigue areas.
Since New Zealand was observing lockdown during the COVID pandemic, there was no scope of availing of massage services through online booking.
So, he decided that he would opt for the self-help route and massage those soar areas of his body as much as possible. Although he would try his best to take care of the soreness himself, he knew it wasn't enough. He felt he desperately needed a professional's help.
At the same time, his mind was not letting him step out for a massage, even though the panic had just relaxed in his city. He decided some more time and observed the situation.
After a month or so, he realised it's time to step out and finally give what his body has been asking for (screaming, actually!). So, he came to BodySense Massage Services in Christchurch through online booking. Ron described his situation, and we knew that he needed an hour-long deep-tissue massage service.
What is a deep-tissue massage?
A deep tissue massage helps treat various musculoskeletal problems, which includes strains and sports injuries. A massage therapist applies sustained pressure to the inner layers of the muscles and connective tissues with slow but deep strokes.
This aids in breaking up the scar tissues that develop after an injury (or workout, in this case) and helps reduce muscle and joint pain.
It also helps in speeding up the body's healing process by raising blood supply and decreasing inflammation.
Some of the advantages of getting a deep tissue massage.
Getting a deep tissue massage is deeply beneficial to the body and mind. Unlike the other massage therapies, this one tends to relieve joint pain and stiffness, letting you relax physically.
In various case studies, it has been proven that deep tissue massage helps to relieve severe lower back pain. According to the scientists, its symptoms were compared to those of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen.
Deep tissue therapy has also been said to assist with:
sports injuries
fibromyalgia
plantar fasciitis
high blood pressure
sciatica
tennis elbow
Deep Tissue versus Swedish Massage
Deep Tissue and Swedish massage are entirely two different types of therapies.
Although they both have some strokes in common, they have distinct purposes and have vastly different pressure levels.
Citing some distinctive features of deep tissue & Swedish massage.
Intended use: Deep tissue therapy is most often used to relieve severe discomfort, joint pain, and sports injuries. Swedish massage is mostly used for relaxation and relieving muscle pain brought about by daily tasks, including sitting at a screen.
Pressure: Swedish massage is a softer version of deep tissue massage that uses even less tension. Both styles use the hands and fingertips to knead and manipulate the muscles, although a deep tissue massage can often use the elbows and forearms to exert additional pressure.
Focus area: Deep tissue therapy focuses on the muscles' inner layers. It's used to manage muscle and tendon strains and discomfort and weakness in the joints and major muscle classes. Swedish massage works on the superficial layers of muscle and the areas of the body that retain the most pain, such as the spine, shoulders, and back.
What happens during the massage
Your massage therapist should begin by asking about the weak spots or pain areas before they start their therapy. A deep tissue massage may target any part of your body or only a certain region.
The massage therapist can use a lighter pressure to warm up the muscles in the beginning. They'll begin focusing on the trouble areas after the warm-up. Deep kneading and stroking with differing degrees of constant pressure can be used.
Will there be side effects?
Following a session of deep tissue massage, it's not uncommon to experience soreness for a couple of days. Soreness may be relieved by using a heating pad or a cold pack wrapped in a towel.
Though massage therapy is usually considered effective, deep tissue massage uses extremely firm pressure and may not be suitable for all people.
Consult your doctor if you are able to relate to any of the following situations
We suggest that you seek your doctor's advice before getting a massage session if you have a history of:
blood clots
clotting disease
been on blood thinners
Bleeding disorder
Have tumour
Seeking cancer care (such as chemotherapy or radiation)
Deep tissue massage should be avoided by people with osteoporosis or cancer that has spread to the bones, as the firm pressure used may cause a fracture. If you're breastfeeding, you can even avoid intense tissue massages. Swedish massage, for example, is a gentler form of massage that could be a safer choice.
If you have an infected wound or another kind of skin infection, you'll need to reschedule to prevent contracting a new infection or worsening a chronic one.
Knowledge of the therapy: The truth is, knowing how to provide deep tissue massage therapy requires experience and knowledge. It's not something that a newbie would be able to do very easily (not that we are discouraging). Some therapists specialise in this type of massage services. If you’re looking for a deep tissue massage in Christchurch, BodySense Massage is a great option.
Last but not least
We could tell how relieved Ron felt after just 15 minutes into the therapy. After two weeks, he came back (for another session) and told us how his workout had improved once he tried massage therapy, which is why he wanted to make sure that he continues doing so.
Deep tissue therapy is suitable for those who participate in a high-intensity aerobic activity like biking or who have an illness or persistent pain. Swedish massage is gentler and could be a safer choice if you have poor pain tolerance or are searching for relaxation from sore muscles. If you have an ongoing medical problem, see a doctor before opting for deep tissue massage.
How do I find a therapist?
If you want to try a deep tissue massage, it's important to work with a qualified massage therapist in Christchurch. Our Christchurch massage therapists at BodySense Massage not only have many years 5 to 7 years of experience but also possess educational background and professional training in the field. Trust your gut and seek the best massage service in Christchurch. Book your session online today!
Comments