Deep tissue massage works by physically breaking down these adhesions to relieve pain and restore normal movement. To do this, the massage therapist often uses direct deep pressure or friction applied across the grain of the muscles.

What conditions is deep tissue massage used for?
Unlike classic massage therapy, which is used for relaxation, deep tissue massage often focuses on a specific problem, such as:

* Chronic pain
* Limited mobility
* Recovery from injuries (e.g. whiplash, falls, sports injury)
* Repetitive strain injury, such as carpal tunnel syndrome
* Postural problems
* Ostearthritis pain
* Fibromyalgia
* Muscle tension or spasm

It is especially helpful for chronically tense and contracted areas such as stiff necks, low back tightness, and sore shoulders.

According to the August 2005 issue of Consumer Reports magazine, 34,000 people ranked deep tissue massage more effective in relieving osteoarthritis pain than physical therapy, exercise, prescription medications, chiropractic, acupuncture, diet, glucosamine and over-the-counter drugs. Deep tissue massage also received a top ranking for fibromyalgia pain. People often notice improved range of motion immediately after a deep tissue massage.

How fast will I get results with a deep tissue massage?
It depends on a number of factors, such as whether it is acute or chronic, your posture, your body's strengths and weaknesses and your own willingness to change. Undoing chronic knots and tension built up over a lifetime is best achieved with an integrated program that includes exercise, work on your posture and ways of moving, relaxation techniques and a regular program of massage..

What can I expect during my visit?
You will be asked to disrobe and lie on a massage table, under a sheet. The room will be warm and relaxing music will be playing. The massage therapist may use fingertips, thumbs, hands, elbows, and forearms during the deep tissue massage. You may be asked to breathe deeply as the massage therapist works on certain tense areas. It is important to drink plenty of water as you can after the massage to flush metabolic waste from the tissues.

Precautions
Massage is not recommended for certain people:

* infectious skin disease, rash, or open wounds
* immediately after surgery
* immediately after chemotherapy or radiation, unless recommended by your doctor
* people with osteoporosis should consult their doctor before getting a massage
* prone to blood clots. There is a risk of blood clots being dislodged. If you have heart disease, check with your doctor before having a massage
* pregnant women should check with their doctor first if they are considering getting a massage. Massage in pregnant women should be done by massage therapists who are certified in pregnancy massage.
* massage should not be done directly over bruises, inflamed skin, unhealed wounds, tumors, abdominal hernia, or areas of recent fractures.

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