Deep Tissue Massage More Harm Than Good

Often clients come in and say, “I want a deep tissue massage.” In my experience I find a therapeutic massage to be more beneficial and here’s why.

When you say deep, a massage therapist is focused on deep. You may be fighting against the pressure believing, “no pain, no gain” or you will endure the pain believing in a day or two after the soreness goes away you will feel better. In some instances that may be the case. But what if you can experience relief without the pain!

Therapeutic massage may include myofascial release, trigger point therapy, neuromuscular massage and more depending on the skill of the clinician. Here’s an example: with a therapeutic massage you may need some deep or trigger pint work on your shoulders and specific work to the low back muscular attachments and some point work to the hips. My clientele have found specific targeted work with a combination of modalities is often better than deep full body work.

Deep tissue is contraindicated in some conditions specifically if you bruise easily or have osteoporosis. Cancer patients or survivors would be best to avoid deep tissue massage especially if lymph nodes were removed. It is best to give your massage therapist any medical information necessary so together your plan of care can be for your best.

Be mindful of what your body truly needs. Sometimes a relaxation massage can help you in unimaginable ways. Your mind may clear, and you may feel lighter and more present. And sometimes specific deep work is indicated.

Be open and listen to your body. Work with your therapist to be clear on your needs and expectations. A good therapist will use specific massage techniques and adjust the pressure to address your needs.