One of the most common treatment techniques used amongst all manual therapists, whether it be a Myotherapists, Osteopaths, or Physiotherapists would be deep tissue massage (DTM).
Once a patient has been assessed and areas of restriction and notable tightness have been located then DTM will be a very important part of the treatment. Whilst it can be uncomfortable and painful for a patient it is known to produce highly beneficial results.
During DTM the practitioner will warm the area up by starting with light massage to increase circulation and awareness to the designated area. Once the practitioner feels the area is very tight or has lots of notable trigger points and taut muscular bands they will then start to increase the intensity of the massage into that spot. By going deeper for longer and even pausing on certain trigger points (Digital Ischemic Pressure) the patient will start to feel those areas of tension release and pain begin to decrease.
DTM when performed by a professional can be seen as the ultimate form of muscle release. Whilst many practitioners will prescribe at home exercises, stretches and foam rolling for patients to perform away from the treatment room there is no replacement for hands on therapy.
DTM can be very helpful in so many conditions including:
- Areas of the body that have been overworked through sporting or occupational activities
- Chronic tight tissues due to sustained incorrect postures
- Injury rehabilitation, strains and tears of muscles due to exercise or sport and accident
- Fatigue or lactic acid building up in muscles
- Chronic muscular pain
- Pre race preparation or post competition recovery
- Headache and Migraine
- Overuse injuries
- Stress
