There are many types of massage available and sometimes it can be a little bit confusing as to which one you should book. The most common source of confusion is between deep tissue massage and sports massage.
Sports massage can be used to prevent problems from occurring, whereas a deep tissue massage only treats existing conditions. Whilst similar strokes are used, these two types of massage usually differ in the amount of force and pressure applied. A sports massage is usually used to help injured or sore muscles and is thus less forceful, and quite pleasant to feel. A deep tissue massage is not always pleasant, but it is necessary.
The deep tissues in your back and neck, for example, can seize up and become tense, inflexible and stiff. In order to release the tension causing the muscle to relax and stop causing pain, a certain amount of pressure needs to be applied. This is not always a pleasant experience, however, it is short-lived and the long-term effects are well worth it. It is worth noting that chronic muscular pain can only be alleviated in this manner.
Goals
An easy way to differentiate between sports massage and deep tissue massage is by considering the outcomes of each treatment.
Sports massage has two types of aims. The first is to alleviate pain and soreness in the muscles by redirecting blood flow to the muscle, to rehabilitate overstimulated, overworked or somehow painful muscles. The second is to boost the performance of your muscles through the use of the same technique. This is why it is called sports massage, as athletes can benefit directly from such a technique.
Deep tissue massage has the aim of unlocking stiffened, cramped, or chronically rigid muscles. Muscles that have been subjected to repetitive activities in a setting where they were forced to repeat the same unhealthy task can leave them contorted into an unnatural angle or shape, with way too much stiffness, or with a number of problems that can cause pain and even damage. Deep tissue massage seeks to work on these problems, “unlocking” the muscles and tendons that may be thus affected and even realigning them to a more healthy position.
Who needs what
Sports participants of all levels, people whose job involves heavy lifting or moving heavy objects, physical labourers, and anyone with overexerted muscles will benefit from a sports massage.
If your problems are a little bit deeper, a deep tissue massage will be needed.
If you have chronic pain you suffer from every day as a result of repetitive tasks, if you have had stiff or sore muscles or tendons for a long time, then a deep tissue massage is what you are going to need. If you have just noticed muscular stiffness or soreness a sports massage will suffice.
Looking for a deep tissue massage/sports massage in Truro
I am based at:
The Old Bakery Studios (just past Radio Cornwall)
Blewett’s Wharf
Truro.
