Is a Deep Tissue Massage Better Than a Regular Massage
applies stronger pressure with deeper techniques that help loosen knots and relieve muscle rigidity.
Differences in Techniques and Pressure
Techniques applied by a regular massage therapist are usually gentle, working on superficial muscles. Some common techniques in massage include:
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Light pressing
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Kneading
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Sapping
These methods are generally utilized for relaxing the body and increasing comfort. It is ideal for people with light tension in their muscles or individuals who want relaxation only. More than 65% of people undergoing regular massage therapy describe themselves as relaxed, but the effect on deep muscle relief is weaker.
Deep tissue massage, on the contrary, involves the use of greater pressure and reaches the deeper layers of muscles and fascia. According to a report provided by the American Physical Therapy Association, deep tissue massage has been shown to decrease chronic muscle pain by more than 30%.
Health Issues Addressed
Regular aims at improving blood circulation, reducing minor fatigue, and eliminating stress. It addresses the following common benefits.
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Relieves minor muscle soreness
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Reduces mental stress
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Relaxes both body and mind
While regular massages are good for everyday muscle aches, they are ineffective against deeper muscle issues. Sixty percent of people claim to have a drastic reduction in stress after one or two regular massages, while for chronic pain, its impact is not that noticeable.
Deep tissue massage targets chronic pains, muscle injuries, and other deeper issues, especially regarding the following:
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Shoulder and neck pains due to long-time sitting
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Muscle recovery after sports injuries
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Chronic pain because of poor posture
Patients using deep tissue massager experienced reduced chronic pain by over 50%, and there is also a significant improvement in muscle flexibility and movement.
Duration of Effects and Long-Term Efficacy
The effects of regular massage usually last for a short time, making the procedure suitable for short-term relaxation and stress relief. Eighty percent of those receiving regular massage feel a decrease in mental stress within 24 hours of the session, but the effect on persistent body pain is weaker.
produces more long-lasting effects, because it acts deeply on muscles, long-term benefits include the following.
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Deep tissue massage can reduce pain by 30-50%.
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More than 60% of recipients of deep tissue massage show marked improvement in body posture after repeated sessions.
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More than a 15% improvement in muscle flexibility in athletes and persons with high-intensity physical work is realized after deep tissue massage.
Differences in Suitable Recipients
Regular massage can provide comfort and help them feel relaxed. Especially experiencing the unique functions of different can achieve better recovery effects. Examples include office workers, homemakers, or people who engage in casual exercise;
In one research study involving athletes, it was shown that deep tissue massage could reduce sports-related injuries by 15-30%. This applies to individuals who engage in regular high-intensity physical activity, as well as those experiencing chronic pain. Athletes, manual laborers, and individuals who sit for long periods and have developed shoulder and neck problems are better candidates for deep tissue massage.