Deep tissue massage is served up with strong pressure for a reason. While it still has the stress-busting benefits of a Swedish massage, it goes one step further to target specific aches and pains. A serious rubdown can loosen up scar tissue, untangle knots and move sub-layers of muscle back into the right place (if you’re squeamish, don’t worry – it all feels surprisingly satisfying).
Here are three tell-tale signs you’ll benefit from a deep tissue massage.
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1 Your workouts have reached a plateau
You've been heroically visiting the gym for months, but those weights are a) becoming a bit too easy for you to brag about on Instagram and b) starting to feel a bit – dare we say it – monotonous.
Let's be honest, half (OK, nearly 100% of) the reason we go to the gym is so we can bask smugly in glory afterwards. So when you want to crack it up a notch, consider a deep tissue massage. It'll loosen you up, increasing flexibility and making it easier to work out those muscles you never knew you had.
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2 That lower back pain is basically part of you now
If you've got a niggling pain in your lower back that's been bothering you for a while, it can be tempting to ignore it and just hope it'll go away. But if weeks have turned into months, and suddenly you realise you can't remember a time you didn't have back pain, it's best to tackle it head on. A regular deep tissue massage can really help to release deep tension – you'll be surprised to see how quickly those dull aches and pains can vanish.
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3 You slouch at your desk
Office workers, this might sound familiar: hunching over your computer can lead to bad posture. Yet although you've heard this… thousands (?) of times before, you may not have heard so many solutions – other than a standing desk or taking regular walks. If neither of those are an option (your boss might not take kindly to you strolling slowly round the office every 30 minutes), deep tissue massage can help.
Slouching happens because the muscles that hold your torso upright get sore from leaning over. Deep tissue massage can help to relax the muscles, rubbing away the tension so it's easier to sit a bit that bit taller.
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FAQs
How does a deep tissue massage help with workout plateaus?
A deep tissue massage can increase your flexibility and make working out easier. By loosening muscles and improving movement, it helps you target muscles you may not have noticed before. This can make your workouts feel less monotonous and help break through a plateau.
What benefits does a deep tissue massage offer for lower back pain?
A regular deep tissue massage can help release deep tension and relieve nagging lower back pain. Consistent sessions may help dull aches disappear, especially if discomfort has lasted for weeks or months. Addressing the issue directly tends to have the best results.
Can a deep tissue massage improve your posture if you sit at a desk?
Yes, deep tissue massage can help relax the muscles that support your torso and reduce tension from slouching. By easing soreness from hunching over a computer, it makes sitting upright much more comfortable. Office workers who tend to slouch may find an improvement in their posture after treatment.
What issues can a deep tissue massage help address?
Deep tissue massage is designed to target specific aches, pains, tension, knots and even scar tissue. The technique works on deep muscle layers and is especially helpful for those dealing with sports-related aches, persistent pain or muscle tightness from poor posture. Many people find the release feels surprisingly satisfying.