There are numerous different types of massage. And boy, can it be confusing trying to figure out which type you need.
But with a little research and a little reading, you should be able to narrow it down.
And when all else fails, simply ask!
Deep pressure massage and deep tissue massage types are probably two of the most perplexing differentiations. They sound similar, but they are actually two different entities.
So, let’s get to the bottom of it once and for all. How are deep-pressure massages and deep-tissue massage different?
Deep Pressure Literally Refers to The Amount of Pressure Applied
Deep pressure simply means the massage therapist pushes harder or applies more pressure as they massage the overall body. Depending on your complaints, one area may require deeper pressure than other areas. And vice versa; one area may require light pressure than others.
Deep-pressure massage is usually not painful. However, it can be slightly uncomfortable. But it shouldn’t feel like a particularly bad pain. If it doesn’t feel good at all, make sure you communicate your feelings with your massage therapist.
Typically, deep-pressure massage is used as a technique for full-body relaxation and for reducing stress throughout the body.
Deep Tissue Massage Accesses the Deeper Tissues
Deep tissue refers to the body itself and working the tissues below the surface, such as myofascial tissue, muscle, and tendons. It is not a particularly sustained pressure. It, instead, involves strokes of varying pressures that are slow and that allow the knots or adhesions in the tissues to release. Your therapist glides over knots and may find trigger points throughout this process.
It may also be painful at times. However, it shouldn’t be consistently painful, and it should feel like a ‘good pain.’ This means it feels like it’s releasing something – not like it’s aggravating issues or causing you intense discomfort.
Deep tissue massage has an array of benefits as well. It releases muscle tension, improves mobility, and increases blood flow. Usually, this massage technique is applied to one specific part of the body or a few specific areas during the course of one appointment. Sometimes, you may feel sore the next few days following a deep tissue massage; this is absolutely normal.
How Do You Know Which One You Should Get?
Deep pressure is more for those seeking full-body relaxation. It may also be used in various other types of massage. And sometimes, it’s used as a warm-up for the tissues before digging into deeper layers or increasing the intensity of the massage.
Deep tissue, on the other hand, is more for problem areas, such as spots where knots or adhesions have formed. These may appear from injury, after injury, or from intense activity. It is useful in treating sports injuries and for recovery.
Your message may use a combination of the two or one or the other. But now you know a little more about what defines these two different techniques and what they’re used for in massage therapy.
Are you ready to book your next appointment? At Athlete’s Choice Massage, our registered massage therapists are committed to helping you get back to feeling your best. Book online or call us today.
