What are some of the main differences between Medical and Deep Tissue Massages?
There are several different types of massage, each with their own specific goals and techniques. When we discuss giving someone a medical massage vs deep tissue massage, it can be a little confusing until the sessions begin. To give you an idea, let’s take a look at what each of these massages is all about.
What is a Medical Massage?
A medical massage is a massage that has been requested by a doctor. This may be needed if a patient has been injured or if they suffer from a medical condition where they require pain relief, joint flexibility, and other health-related needs. The massage therapist will be given detailed instructions for the recommended therapies involved. They’ll then use specific techniques like trigger point therapy to achieve the person’s health goals.
What Is a Deep Tissue Massage?
Many people are under the misconception that a deep tissue massage is the same as a standard Swedish massage but with deeper strokes or firmer pressure. This is an oversimplification. With these types of massages, the therapist will apply pressure along with slow strokes to the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. There are a variety of benefits to deep tissue massage therapy, but it’s very often used for the alleviation of chronic pain.
How a Therapist Approaches Them
Since these massages can have a similar goal, it’s important to remember that subtle differences are paramount for success. Here’s a quick look at how a therapist will approach medical massage vs deep tissue massage:
Medical Message
Rather than being a choice made by the patient, a medical massage is requested by a physician. While a massage therapist will take what the patient says into account, the instructions provided by the physician are what’s important. They will use these instructions to determine the proper course of action to help the patient get back on track.
Deep Tissue Massage
Someone may come in requesting a deep tissue massage because a physician has recommended it. A therapist will base the treatment plan on what the patient says. The therapist will ask a variety of questions about pain, discomfort, and other issues they seem to be having. Then, if the deep tissue massage seems to be the best solution, they’ll explain the process.
Primary Benefits of Each Massage
Although they’re similar in nature, both types of massage have different benefits because they often have different primary goals. Here are the benefits you can expect from a medical massage vs deep tissue massage:
Medical Message
Medical massages have a wide range of benefits because they all depend on a patient’s specific needs as advised by their doctor. These can include reducing inflammation, alleviating chronic pain, lowering stress levels, improving sleep patterns, etc. This typically takes multiple sessions and will be followed up by the physician once the treatment plan has ended.
Deep Tissue Massage
The main reason someone may be in need of a deep tissue massage is that they’re suffering from pain due to a sore lower back, lingering muscle injury, or similar problem. By locating problem areas such as knots or fibrous adhesions, the therapist will be able to pinpoint the source of pain. They’ll then massage the proper areas to improve relaxation and alleviate the pain and discomfort.
Contact East West Healing Solutions for More Medical Massage Vs Deep Tissue Information
East West Healing Solutions understands the details of medical massage vs deep tissue massage. As the premier massage provider in Palm Harbor and the surrounding areas, we provide healing services that can alleviate pain, reduce stress, and keep you healthy. If you have any questions, call our healing instructors at (727) 216-3972. Also, be sure to check out the East West Healing Solutions store.
