Chapter 1 Theory

Outline

Theoretical Approach

Forces Applied to the Body

Compression

Tension

Torsion

Shear

Bend

The Nature of Tension and Discomfort

Emotions and Deep Tissue Massage

Approach to Deep Tissue Massage

Benefits of Deep Tissue Massage

Summary

Objectives

1. Discuss definitions of deep tissue massage.

2. Understand what is meant by deep tissues.

3. Explain the forces that act on the tissues of the body.

4. Understand how tension works.

Key Terms

bend

compression

deep tissue

gravitational forces

homeostasis

mechanical forces

modalities

pain-spasm-pain cycle

shear

stress

stressor

tensile force

tension

torsion

Deep tissue massage therapy is one of the most frequently requested services in the massage profession. Many massage therapists recognize this and offer this modality. Deep tissue massage is commonly misunderstood and it can be unclear whether clients are requesting a deep tissue massage session or are asking for a massage with stronger pressure. Many clients often associate deep tissue massage with pain, hard or strong pressure, and often invasive massage techniques. Although there is a level of truth to this association, a good deep tissue session should not cause pain or discomfort. There may be a delayed onset of muscle soreness; however, any type of massage approach can cause this. Many schools often teach deep tissue massage as a technique that uses increased pressure to access the deeper layers of the tissues, often inadvertently overlooking the diverse applications of deep tissue massage techniques.

In this book we explore approaches to the applications and approaches to accessing the deeper tissues of the body. In Part 1, we explore the theoretical approaches like force, nature of tension, and pain and benefits of deep tissue massage. We also look at the importance of postural, functional, and gait assessments as well as some of the common modalities that are important to deep tissue massage. Part 1 ends with an overview of the tools and techniques used during deep tissue sessions. Part 2 breaks the body down into smaller regions and addresses common pathologic conditions experienced in those regions for which a deep tissue approach may be beneficial.

Theoretical approach

As a modality, deep tissue massage focuses on addressing the muscular complaints that are rooted in the deeper layers of the musculoskeletal system. Deep tissue massage should not be viewed as a separate modality, but rather as the use of several different techniques of therapeutic massage to enhance the overall outcome of the session. Deep tissue massage is a mindset, an intention, and an approach using the tools and talents possessed by a therapist to address specific musculoskeletal complaints (Figure 1-1).

Figure 1-1 Deep tissue massage.

Deep tissue massage is one of the most versatile and effective techniques for musculoskeletal complaints. It integrates techniques from Swedish Massage, Therapeutic Touch, Neuromuscular Techniques, Myofascial Techniques, and Structural Integration to address all levels of the body. A deep tissue session uses techniques from these foundational approaches to work through the layers of the body as needed to reach the target muscle. Deep tissue integration is effective because it is an outcome-based approach and uses the techniques necessary to reach a desired outcome. Knowledge and understanding in anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology is extremely important in deep tissue approaches.

Forces applied to the body

Kinesiology and pathology are important tools to understand some of the causes for the muscular pain and holding patterns expressed by the client. Understanding the forces that play on the body helps in the application of the proper techniques to help with pain management and aid in the restoration of homeostasis. There are two primary classifications of forces that play on the body. These are fields and mechanical forces. Fields are forces like magnetic and electrical forces, which we have limited control over. Mechanical forces such as resistance and gravity are forces we have some control over. These forces can be the cause of the injury, but can also be applied to the body to remove the restrictions and tension that is causing the pain. Five main types of mechanical forces are applied to the body: compression, tension, torsion, shear, and bend.

Compression

Compression occurs when two or more structures are pushed together. This occurs with most massage strokes, but it also occurs in everyday life and injuries. Compression as a force can be beneficial or detrimental to the body (Figure 1-2).

Figure 1-2 Compression.

Many structures are susceptible to the effects of negative compressive forces. Nerves may become impinged between bone and muscle or compressed between muscles. The vertebrae are under constant compressive forces when standing and because of poor posture. Whether structures are pinched between bone and muscles, bone and bone, or by a narrowing of the passageways they travel through, the end result can be numbness and tingling or potential degenerative and compressive disorders.

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