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Enjoy a Therapeutic Deep Tissue Massage in Wilmington NC

May 27, 2015

When suffering the aching pain of overused muscles or the energy-draining stress of everyday life and need the therapeutic benefits of a deep tissue massage Wilmington NC residents know they can depend on Coastal Massage and Bodywork to provide them with a unique massage that targets deep layers of muscles and connective tissue throughout the body.

Deep tissue massage therapy not only relieves pain caused by injury, overexertion or stress but also improves circulatory system functioning, eases tension in strained muscles and stimulates endorphin production. Endorphins are naturally analgesic neurotransmitters that are normally released during vigorous exercise to make you feel slightly euphoric. Deep tissue massage therapy “tricks” connective tissue and muscle into thinking you are exercising, which results in significant increases in endorphins.

Physical and Psychological Benefits of a Deep Tissue Massage

Peer-reviewed research studies have discovered that deep tissue massage therapy provides the following benefits:

  • Relieve musculoskeletal pain
  • Reduce depression and anxiety
  • May help reduce heart rate and blood pressure temporarily
  • Decreases blood cortisol levels (cortisol is a hormone known to increase the risk of heart disease, hypertension and diabetes when sustained at high levels in the body)
  • Soothes the pain of muscle spasms caused by fibromyalgia
  • Promotes recovery from whiplash, sports injuries or repetitive strain injuries (carpal tunnel syndrome or tennis elbow, for example)
  • Alleviates sciatica and osteoarthritis pain
  • Encourages cell metabolism and the generation of new cells within inflamed tissues
  • Improves immune system functioning

How Does Deep Tissue Massage Therapy Work to Relieve Pain and Improve Mood?

Research indicates that deep tissue massage therapy blocks pain receptors due to stimulation of the PNS (parasympathetic nervous system) as correct. Activation of the PNS promotes generation of endorphins and serotonin, two hormones strongly implicated in improving mood by naturally reducing tension and anxiety. In fact, a “runner’s high” and a “massage high” seem to rely on the same physiological principles associated with neurotransmitters levels in the brain.

Deep tissue massage also dissolves rigid, painful bands of tissue called adhesions that impair functioning of muscles, ligaments and tendons, block circulation of oxygenated blood to these tissues and limit movement.

How is a Deep Tissue Massage Performed?

Our massage therapists will use a series of firmly realized strokes and manipulations to release “knots” and adhesions existing in your strained muscles. Because deep tissue massage is deliberate and intense, the massage is often used as the example for describing a “full body massage” that begins at the shoulders and typically ends when your therapist reaches your upper legs or calves.

Strong, rhythmic strokes work to reach the deeper layers of the muscles and connective tissues. These forceful strokes release “knots” embedded in muscles and tissues to enhance mobility, decrease muscle spasms, improve lymph and blood circulation and reduce ischemia, a condition in which tissues suffer painful deficiencies of oxygen and glucose.

Deep tissue massage is an incredibly nurturing style of massage that involves your therapist working deeply with the tissue rather than on the tissue. Although this kind of massage may be slightly more uncomfortable than other types of massage, it will relieve pain, tension and muscle inflammation so that you can enjoy an active, healthy, pain-free life.

Not sure which type of massage you need? Our licensed massage and bodywork therapists can incorporate a variety of massage modalities into your massage for a completely customized experience.

Book your next massage by calling (910) 201- or scheduling online