According to the Mayo Clinic, deep tissue massage is a massage technique that uses slow forceful strokes to target deep layers of muscle and connective tissues. It is very helpful for people who suffer from recurrent and severe muscle tightening or who have muscle damage from injuries. However, there are a few problems that can result from this type of massage that recipients first should be aware of.
Bruising and Pain
According to the Mayo Clinic, bruising is one side effect that can result from a deep tissue massage. This bruising may feel quite deep and leave you feeling very tender for several days afterward. Some people even report that they have such severe pain that they may need to take a few days off from work or take mild pain relievers. However, taking hot baths and relaxing right after a massage can help treat the pain and bruising.
Blood Clots
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, if you suffer from blood clots or have had pain in one part of your body (such as the leg) for an extended period of time, it may not be wise to get a deep tissue massage. Basically, the deep forceful strokes that are used during the massage technique can cause a blood clot to be released into the blood stream. This can lead to strokes, heart attacks, embolisms or even death. Therefore, seeking the advice of a physician before getting a deep tissue massage may be best.
Nerve Damage
In very rare instances, nerve damage can occur with deep tissue massage. Because deep tissue massage uses harder, more forceful strokes than some other types of massage, when it is done too hard it can result in nerve damage. This is especially true in people who have more tender skin, such as young children or the elderly. If you are is sensitive to touch or have a tendency to have numbness after bruising, talk to your physician before getting a deep tissue massage.
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Writer Bio
Kristie Jernigan is a health writer with over 17 years of experience as a medical social worker. She has worked mainly with the elderly population and with children. She holds a Bachelor of Science in psychology and early childhood from East Tennessee State University and a Master of Science in health care administration and gerontology from the University of Phoenix.