Deep tissue massage is a powerful technique that can relieve chronic pain, improve mobility, and enhance well-being. But how does it work? How does it compare to a Swedish massage?
In this blog, we’ll review the differences between Swedish and deep tissue massage, discuss when one type of bodywork would be more beneficial than another, and explore the impressive benefits that deep tissue massage has to offer.
What is Deep Tissue Massage?
Deep tissue massage is a type of massage therapy that focuses on realigning the deeper layers of connective and muscle tissue. Our massage therapists use slow strokes, detailed movements and deep pressure throughout the entire body to target muscle fibers, tendons, and fascia. This type of massage is often used to release chronic tension and help people manage any ongoing pain they’re experiencing.
Swedish Massage vs Deep Tissue
The primary difference between Swedish and deep tissue massage is pressure and detail. Our massage therapists will apply more pressure and use more detailed strokes to reach deeper layers of muscles and connective tissues. Although Swedish massage is relaxing, it generally does not involve the same amount of depth into the muscles as deep tissue massage does.
What are the Benefits of Deep Tissue Massage?
Deep tissue massage is especially helpful for those experiencing chronic pain, exercise enthusiasts, and people with chronic injury issues. If a client has contracted areas such as a stiff neck, tight upper back, lower back pain, tightness in their leg muscle tightness, or sore shoulders, they could benefit from a deep tissue massage.
It’s also been shown to decrease blood pressure after just one session. A few other key benefits include:
- The opportunity to identify and release chronic patterns of tension
- Increased joint movement and range of motion
- Quicker recovery time with injuries
- A chance to break up scar tissue
- Reduced stress and anxiety
- Improved posture
This Sounds a Lot Like Sports Massage. Are They Similar at All?
Sports massage is different from deep tissue in a couple of ways. First, the massage therapist will ask the client a few questions to identify which areas of the body are affected by the sport. Depending on the activity, various areas of the body could be affected in different ways.
Second, sports massages involve more manual stretching and assisted range of motion movements than deep tissue massages. Our massage therapists will use specific stretches to target muscle tightness, increase flexibility, and move the body.
Third, it may not involve deep pressure. At the beginning of a session, we’re focused on identifying whether or not the client has a sports-related injury.
At Vinings Massage & Wellness, we get a lot of clients that get injured from playing golf or tennis. Tennis elbow in particular can be a very painful experience which is why many people seek out help targeting the area and bringing movement back to it. Sports massage incorporates a range of motion exercises into a session, so it’s not solely about massage, per se.
Key Takeaways
Deep tissue massage is an incredibly beneficial type of bodywork that can help to reduce chronic pain, improve posture and range of motion, decrease stress levels, and more. There are several key differences between Swedish and deep tissue massage which allows it to provide unique benefits. If you’re interested in experiencing a deep tissue massage for yourself, book with Vinings Massage & Wellness today!
