what does deep tissue massage do to the muscles?
By Manisha Wijayanayagam, Registered Physiotherapist and Pelvic Health Provider
If you find yourself relating to statements like "If I drop something on the floor, it now belongs to the floor" or "My shoulders are holding on to tension from 2007", then deep tissue massage might be perfect for you!
Deep tissue massage is a therapeutic technique used to target deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue and focuses on relaxation of these tissues. Deep tissue massage applies a firm pressure to reach underlying muscle fibers, fascia, and tendons. This method is often used to treat musculoskeletal issues, including those related to chronic pain, injury recovery, and tension built up over time. Understanding the effects of deep tissue massage on muscles helps explain why it is a favoured approach among athletes, massage/physical therapists, and individuals suffering from chronic muscle tension.
One of the primary effects of deep tissue massage is the reduction of muscle tension. Over time, muscles can develop taught bands called trigger points, which are more commonly referred to as “knots”. Trigger points can manifest due to stress, repetitive motion, or poor posture. If severe enough, they cause pain, restrict normal movement and impair circulation. Deep tissue massage aims to break down adhesions in the muscle and fascia caused by trigger points through sustained pressure. This releases tension and restores elasticity to the muscle fibers, making them more pliable and functional.
Improved circulation is another significant benefit of deep tissue massage. The firm pressure used by the massage therapist encourages blood flow to areas with restricted or impaired circulation. This increased blood flow delivers more oxygen and nutrients to the muscles, which helps reduce inflammation and promote healing. Enhanced circulation also aids in the removal of metabolic waste products, such as lactic acid, that can accumulate in muscles following intense physical activity. This is why a deep tissue can feel great after that marathon, half marathon or Hyrox event!
Deep tissue massage also helps in reducing muscle pain. When muscles are overworked or injured, they tend to become inflamed and sore. Deep tissue massage relieves pain through a number of mechanisms:
Stimulating Pain-Reducing System: Massage activates nerve receptors that send signals to the brain, which can help "close the pain gate" and reduce the perception of pain.
Releasing Endorphins: Massage triggers the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers, which help reduce pain and improve mood
Reducing Stress Hormones: By promoting relaxation, massage can lower levels of cortisol, a hormone associated with stress, and increase levels of serotonin and dopamine, which have mood-stabilizing effects.
By targeting the deeper muscle layers, massage stimulates the body's natural healing processes, often leading to decreased pain and discomfort. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with chronic conditions like fibromyalgia, sciatica, or lower back pain, as well as those recovering from muscle strains or sports injuries.
Another important effect is the improvement of muscle flexibility and range of motion. Tight muscles can limit joint movement and lead to compensatory patterns that strain other parts of the body. Deep tissue massage helps loosen these tight areas, allowing muscles to stretch more freely and joints to move through their full range. This can enhance physical performance and reduce the risk of future injuries, especially for athletes and physically active individuals. You might even find yourself moving a little more like your younger self—just without the questionable fashion choices.
It’s worth noting that deep tissue massage can also have systemic effects. Although primarily focused on muscles, the release of tension and stimulation of circulation can also activate the parasympathetic nervous system, leading to a reduction in overall stress and anxiety. This holistic benefit further supports recovery and overall muscle health.
While deep tissue massage may cause some temporary soreness, the long-term effects on muscle health are generally positive when performed correctly. It’s important to consult with trained professionals to ensure the technique is appropriate for your specific needs.
In conclusion, deep tissue massage is a powerful therapeutic tool that positively impacts muscles by reducing tension, enhancing circulation, promoting healing, and improving flexibility. Its benefits extend far beyond just relaxation, making it an effective strategy for maintaining muscular health and treating a variety of chronic and acute conditions.
If you’re interested in experiencing deep tissue massage or learning more about it, you can book an appointment with one of Cadence Physiotherapy’s exceptional massage therapists: Stephen Clynick and Vicky Milne.
