Massage has been used as a technique since the ancient times by the Romans, who believed in leading luxurious lifestyles and pampering their bodies in order to fully relax.
Table of Contents
The cause of muscle tension
Human bodies are made of skeletons and muscles, which give us structure and enable movements. Hence, repetitive movement and contracted control of our muscles cause tension. This contributes to muscle tightness, inflexibility, build-up of scar tissue and muscle imbalance, thus altering our body posture at the time our muscles are contracted.
More often than not, those who lead a sedentary lifestyle, athletes, or gym rats who train with weights or work out regularly are the most prone to muscle tension .
Deep Tissue Massage Therapy vs Myofascial Release
Deep Tissue Massage Therapy
To counter these aches, Deep Tissue Massage Therapy involves kneading and stroking the soft tissue to loosen the knots. Benefits include relaxation of muscles, reduction of stress by releasing endorphins (anti-stress hormones that makes us happier), improvement of blood circulation, flushing out of toxins through urination, reduction of blood pressure after a 45 to 60 minute massage and lastly, improvement of flexibility. Deep Tissue Massage Therapy sessions should be scheduled weekly for optimal results.
Myofascial Release
Myofascial Release treatment uses sustained pressure to roll against the connective tissues. This is done by using the flat bone of the therapist’s lower arm to release muscle tension or knots which helps to get rid of scar tissues from repetitive usage during prolonged physical activities.
Comparison table
| Aspect | Deep Tissue Massage | Myofascial Release |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Broad muscle groups | The fascia (80% of body composition) |
| Pressure | Slower, deeper pressure | Gentle, sustained pressure |
| Duration | 75 to 90 minutes | 30 to 55 minutes |
| Aim | Pain relief, movement restoration | Muscle and fascia release |
Find a therapist
For those interested in experiencing a deep tissue massage, it’s crucial to find a skilled massage therapist.
Julian Eymann is a highly regarded Guest Therapist at sen Spa known for his mastery of deep tissue massages. With years of experience and a reputation for delivering deeply therapeutic and relaxing massages, Julian is a favorite among clients seeking relief from muscular tension and stress.
Sam Azmi, a dedicated Massage Therapist at sen Spa, specializes in Sports Massage, catering to the needs of athletes and individuals with sports-related concerns. Sam’s in-depth knowledge of sports injuries and performance optimization has earned him a stellar reputation among clients seeking specialized sports massage therapy.
To schedule a session with Julian Eymann and Sam Azmi, contact sen Spa to learn more about their availability and services.
Final thoughts
Ultimately, it is also the responsibility of the individual to ensure that their muscles are in tip-top condition. One can achieve this through regular stretching, which helps to maintain flexibility and ensures joints are able to attain full range of motion without any pain or discomfort.
After all, prevention is better than cure; get started now and have a pain free fall vacation!
About the author
Desmond is one of the Club’s longest-serving Personal Trainers and has been in the fitness industry for more than 20 years. A certified fitness instructor through the Federation of International Sports, Aerobics and Fitness, he has a wide skill set to assist his clients in achieving their goals. If you are recovering from an injury and require advice on an appropriate training regime, want help to gain muscle mass, or with weight loss, Desmond can tailor a program to suit your specific needs. He can often be seen giving his clients a post-workout massage to help release any muscle tension.
