Deep Tissue Massage
“For some, deep tissue work can lead to deep relaxation post-session”
Deep Tissue massage tends to be a pretty polarizing option amongst those seeking soft tissue work. On one end, an athlete might not consider a massage beneficial unless they’re gritting their teeth through the entire session. On the other end, an athlete might tense so badly from one ounce deeper pressure than they can handle that any benefit will be lost.
In this blog
I hope to educate you on the benefits of deep tissue massage and the proper time various types of athletes should seek out these techniques.
The Benefits
Benefits of Deep Tissue Massage are wide-ranging. For those with adhesions, or deep-set knots in the muscle belly, properly applied deep tissue techniques can work out the affected muscle fibers. An athlete with tight muscles may find deep, slow strokes to help muscles from sticking to one another so that they may work more autonomously. For some, deep tissue work can lead to deep relaxation post-session and contribute to better sleep and lower stress levels.
When to schedule a deep tissue massage?
This answer will vary depending on the reasoning behind setting up a deep tissue massage. The one constant for all is to allow at least 48 hours after the treatment before intense physical activity. Deep Tissue massage can leave muscles feeling sluggish or fatigued for up to 72 hours.
For the serious athlete
Deep tissue work for maintenance, the best time to set a session would be after a strenuous workout. This allows the muscles to receive the full benefits of the massage before the next hard workout.
For the athlete
Experiencing soft tissue pain, tightness or injury, deep tissue massage should be administered during the repair stage of healing. Once in the repair stage, treatment can be sought out as soon as possible. There should be at least 48 hours between sessions.
For the casual athlete
Looking to help lengthen shortened muscles through deep tissue techniques, anytime is a good time for treatment. Be sure to space sessions at least 48 hours apart.