While many massage techniques induce relaxation with soothing and gentle kneading, deep tissue massage involves more intense

muscle manipulation. Deep tissue massage therapy is similar to Swedish massage, but the deeper pressure is beneficial in releasing chronic muscle tension. Additionally, this type of massage reduces stress hormone levels and heart rate while boosting mood and relaxation by triggering the release of oxytocin and serotonin.

Unlike most traditional massage that promotes whole-­body relaxation, deep tissue massage is often used to target specific trouble spots after an accident or injury has left you stiff and sore, as in instances of whiplash or falls.

Deep tissue massage is used to treat a variety of physical ailments such as:

• Chronic pain
• Fibromyalgia
• Injured muscles
• Limited mobility
• Postural problems
• Sciatica
• Osteoarthritis

A Typical Deep Tissue Massage

Before a deep tissue massage, a trained and certified massage therapist will discuss the client’s accident, injury or complaints of

Deep tissue massage works by breaking down muscle adhesions that can build up after an accident or a chronic illness. By applying intense, controlled pressure and friction to an afflicted area across the grain of the muscle, deep tissue massage relaxes rigid tissue and relieves the pain associated with stiff muscles, ligaments and tendons.

Deep tissue massage may cause some discomfort, and therapists encourage their clients to keep them informed about their comfort level and pain tolerance during deep tissue therapy.

Therapists may encourage their clients to apply ice to tender spots following a deep tissue massage. Some soreness the day after a deep tissue massage can be expected, though the discomfort should pass in a day.

Attending to the unique needs of expectant mothers is the goal of every prenatal massage. Certified prenatal massage therapists are specially trained to tailor their massage techniques to help alleviate common pregnancy complaints and to protect both mother and child during the massage.

How Does Prenatal Massage Work?

Prenatal massage is unique in its application. During the massage, the expectant mother is carefully supported by cushions and pillows in order to provide superior comfort and protect her and the baby from strain or injury. This also helps alleviate extra strain on the lower back and pelvic areas when the pressure of massage techniques are applied.

Prenatal massage is especially gentle, and deep tissue techniques are never used as a safety precaution. In fact, many areas of the body are avoided during this massage to protect mother and child, while extra attention is given to areas of the body that are particularly affected by pregnancy, like the feet and back.

The benefits of prenatal massage are numerous. The gentle kneading massage can be supremely comforting both physically and emotionally to an expectant mother, and the psychological benefit itself can be quite therapeutic. In addition to stress and anxiety reduction, prenatal massage can help reduce expectant mothers’ common aches and annoyances, like swollen ankles lower back pain, leg cramps and headaches.

Women with normal, low-­risk pregnancies can benefit greatly from prenatal massage. However, women in high­-risk pregnancies should consult their doctor or midwife before beginning a massage therapy program.

Intensely comforting and remarkably gentle, LaStone massage is a unique pampering experience that is perfect for those who prefer a lighter massage with many of the benefits of deep tissue work. With hot stone massage therapy, the heat conducted by the smooth stones used during the massage loosen and relax tense muscles, promoting deep relaxation that allows a massage therapist to manipulate the muscle intensely without causing pain or discomfort.

Hot stone massage is a variation of traditional massage techniques and engages the use of smooth stones containing basalt, which retains heat well. The smooth, rounded stones are heated in water to the ideal temperature and then placed in optimum spots on the body, such as the spinal column, and placed in the palms of the hands and between the toes. The stones are also often used as massage implements and help massage therapists deeply massage the muscles with minimal discomfort. Many hot stone massage clients enjoy the comforting warmth provided by the stones, making this type of massage very popular.

Hot stone massage offers many benefits. The warmth of the stones is welcomed by clients with cold feet, and the heat can spread warmth and also increase circulation throughout the body. Hot stone massage effectively zaps tension, relieves stress, and many report its ability to alleviate symptoms of disorders like depression, insomnia and arthritic stiffness.