Deep massage: Benefits and side effects

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Deep massage is a full-body massage method used to relieve chronic pain, improve range of motion for muscles, bones, joints, etc. In addition, this method also brings countless other benefits to health. strong.

1. What is a deep massage?

Deep massage (deep tissue massage) is a holistic massage technique used primarily to treat musculoskeletal problems such as muscle strains and sports injuries. It involves applying constant pressure to the body by performing slow, deep strokes to target the deep layers of muscles and connective tissues.
From there, deep massage helps to break down scar tissue formed after injury, while reducing muscle and tissue tension. Besides, it also promotes faster healing of muscles and bones by increasing blood flow to the injured area and helping to reduce inflammation effectively.

2. Benefits of deep massage

Deep tissue massage offers both physical and psychological benefits. Unlike other massage techniques that focus mainly on relaxation, deep massage helps treat muscle pain and improve joint stiffness. Besides, it also helps the patient relax mentally. A study done in 2014 on 59 people showed that: Deep tissue massage helps reduce pain in people with chronic low back pain. It has a similar effect to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen.
In addition, deep tissue massage also helps to support the treatment of cases: Sports injuries, fibromyalgia, plantar fasciitis, sciatica, high blood pressure, elbow injuries,. ..

3. Deep massage process

The process of deep massage is done as follows:
Before the deep tissue massage, the massage therapist will ask the patient about the health problem areas. Deep tissue massage can be done on the whole body (full body massage) or just focus on one area; When the patient is ready, the patient is asked to lie on his or her back or stomach. Need to undress in massaged areas; The masseuse will massage gently to warm up the patient's muscles. Then, they will use pressing, deep strokes, ... with different pressure.

4. Side effects of deep tissue massage

After a deep massage, the patient may experience soreness that lasts for several days. To relieve pain, patients can apply hot or cold compresses. Although massage therapy is generally safe, deep tissue massage uses very strong pressure, so it may not be safe for some people. Accordingly, people with a history of blood clotting or blood clotting disorders; are taking blood thinners ; have a bleeding disorder; If you have cancer or are undergoing cancer treatment (chemotherapy or radiation therapy), talk to your doctor before giving a deep tissue massage.
People with osteoporosis or cancer that has spread to the bones should avoid deep massage because strong pressure can cause fractures. In addition, pregnant women should not massage deep tissue, instead, you can choose a gentler form of massage such as Swedish massage. People with open wounds or skin infections, need to schedule deep massage accordingly to prevent the old wound from getting worse.

5. Difference between deep massage and Swedish massage

Deep massage and Swedish massage are two different forms of massage. They have the following differences:
Purpose: Deep tissue massage is mainly performed to treat chronic pain and muscle or sports injuries. Swedish massage is mainly used to help the body relax and relieve muscle tension due to daily activities; Force: Swedish massage is a gentler form of massage and uses lower pressure than deep tissue massage. Both forms involve using the palms and fingers to massage the muscles. However, deep tissue massage also uses the elbows and forearms to put more pressure on the muscles; Impact Area: Deep tissue massage focuses the impact on the inner layers of muscles. It is made to treat muscle and tendon injuries, pain, and stiffness in major muscle groups and joints. Swedish massage focuses on the outer muscle layers and tense body parts such as the neck, shoulders and back. Deep massage is suitable for people who participate in high physical activities such as jogging or people with injuries, chronic pain,... For those who have a low pain threshold or are looking for ways to reduce muscle tension, it can be chosen. gentler forms of massage. And for those who have underlying medical conditions, it is necessary to talk with a doctor before deciding to have a deep tissue massage.

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Reference source: healthline.com