Massage therapy treatments have been around for thousands of years. The oldest record of documented massage treatments is dated around 4,000 years ago and was found in an ancient Chinese medical text. Even the ancient Egyptians benefited from hand and foot massage therapy. Massage therapy continued its passage through time with the Greek physician, Hippocrates, followed by the Romans with Galen and then the Swedes with Pehr Heinrick Ling. Since that time, massage has continued to pave its way into modern-day alternative treatments for various illnesses.
Deep Tissue Massage in Action
Of the many different types of massage therapies available, deep tissue is one of the best treatments for painfully tight or injured muscles. Deep tissue massage involves relieving tension, as well as aiding in the healing of muscular injuries through the use of pressure applied in deliberate strokes to the various layers of muscle, tendons, and connective tissues.
Massage therapy is not a replacement for regular medical care, but it is a very effective treatment for reducing pain and muscle tension. Many medical doctors recognize the benefits of massage therapy and will, therefore, refer their patients to a licensed massage therapist for treatment of certain conditions or injuries.
Benefits
Deep tissue massage works by breaking down any adhesions or scar tissue and improving the blood circulation to the affected area. This helps to improve pain and inflammation and, over time, will help with mobility and range of motion.
Side Effects
- Pain
- Soreness
- Headaches
- Nausea
A stimulated tight or injured muscle may respond with temporary pain, but this will soon subside. The more the muscle is worked by the massage therapist, the more temporary pain there should be. Be sure to let the therapist know if you are experiencing pain because sometimes this can be corrected by the therapist, simply by adjusting the work intensity on the muscle.
Sometimes, soreness can be expected after a deep tissue massage therapy session, but this will also improve over time as the muscle is worked. Headaches are rare and are usually caused by something else, such as an awkward position during the massage therapy. Finally, because vigorous massage can stir up some of the build-up of toxins that are in the body, mild nausea can sometimes result.
Cautions
While most people can enjoy the benefits of a massage, it should be avoided by those with the following conditions:
- Bleeding disorders
- Health conditions requiring blood thinners
- Burns
- Open or healing wounds
- Deep Vein Thrombosis
- Fractures
- Severe Osteoporosis
- Severe Thrombocytopenia
Deep tissue massage is one of many styles of massage therapy treatment available today. There are also many other uses for massage besides muscular pain or injury. Some styles of massage are best for relaxation, while others are more therapeutic. If it is therapeutic massage that you seek, speak with your doctor or therapist to determine the best type of massage treatment for you.
