Deep tissue massage and trigger point therapy are two popular techniques used in massage therapy for the treatment of muscle pain and tension. While both techniques share some similarities, they differ in their approach and objectives. In this article, we will discuss the science behind deep tissue massage and trigger point therapy and how they work to alleviate pain and tension in the body.
What is Deep Tissue Massage?
Deep tissue massage is a type of massage that uses deep pressure to target the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. The primary objective of deep tissue massage is to release tension in the body and improve circulation by breaking down adhesions and scar tissue. Unlike other types of massage, deep tissue massage is a more intense and focused form of massage therapy that can be uncomfortable at times.
Deep tissue massage has been shown to have many benefits, including reducing chronic pain, improving mobility and flexibility, and reducing inflammation. According to a study published in the International Journal of Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork, deep tissue massage can also reduce blood pressure and heart rate, making it an effective form of relaxation therapy for those with high levels of stress or anxiety. (1)
What are Trigger Points?
Trigger points are knots or tight bands of muscle fibers that can form in the muscles due to overuse, injury, or stress. These trigger points can cause pain and discomfort, as well as refer pain to other areas of the body. Trigger points are commonly found in the neck, shoulders, back, and hips, and can cause headaches, joint pain, and muscle weakness.
What is Trigger Point Therapy?
Trigger point therapy is a form of massage therapy that is used to alleviate pain and tension caused by trigger points. The objective of trigger point therapy is to locate and release trigger points in the muscles by applying pressure to the affected area. This pressure can be applied using the fingers, elbows, or other massage tools.
Trigger point therapy has been shown to be an effective form of pain relief for those with chronic pain conditions, including fibromyalgia and myofascial pain syndrome. According to a study published in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, trigger point therapy can also improve range of motion and reduce muscle stiffness in those with neck and shoulder pain. (2)
How Does Deep Tissue Massage and Trigger Point Therapy Work?
Deep tissue massage and trigger point therapy work by targeting the deeper layers of muscle tissue to alleviate pain and tension. Deep tissue massage works by breaking down adhesions and scar tissue that can form in the muscles due to injury, overuse, or stress. This helps to improve circulation and mobility, as well as reduce inflammation and chronic pain.
Trigger point therapy works by locating and releasing trigger points in the muscles that can cause pain and discomfort. By applying pressure to the affected area, trigger point therapy can help to release the tension and restore normal muscle function. This can reduce pain and improve range of motion, as well as reduce the likelihood of future injuries.
The Science Behind Deep Tissue and Trigger Points Massage
The scientific community has conducted several studies on the effectiveness of deep tissue massage and trigger point therapy in alleviating pain and tension in the body. Here are some of the opinions of the scientific community:
A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that deep tissue massage can significantly reduce pain and improve mobility in patients with chronic low back pain (3).
According to a study published in the International Journal of Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork, deep tissue massage can reduce blood pressure and heart rate, making it an effective form of relaxation therapy for those with high levels of stress or anxiety (4).
A review published in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies found that trigger point therapy can be an effective form of pain relief for those with chronic pain conditions, including fibromyalgia and myofascial pain syndrome (5).
Another study published in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies found that trigger point therapy can improve range of motion and reduce muscle stiffness in those with neck and shoulder pain (6).
A review published in the Journal of Manual & Manipulative Therapy found that trigger point therapy can be an effective treatment for tension headaches (7).
Overall, the scientific community generally agrees that deep tissue massage and trigger point therapy can be effective forms of treatment for pain and tension in the body. However, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind these therapies and to determine the best practices for using them.
Deep tissue massage and trigger point therapy are both effective forms of massage therapy that can be used to alleviate pain and tension in the body. While they share some similarities, they differ in their approach and objectives. Deep tissue massage is a more intense and focused form of massage therapy that is used to break down adhesions and scar tissue, while trigger point therapy is used to locate and release trigger points in the muscles that can cause pain and discomfort. If you are experiencing chronic pain or tension in the body, deep tissue massage and trigger point therapy may be effective forms of treatment to consider.
If you’re experiencing chronic pain or tension in your body, consider booking a massage at our Remedial Studio. Our experienced massage therapists specialize in deep tissue massage and trigger point therapy, which are both effective forms of treatment for relieving pain and tension in the body. Whether you’re dealing with tight muscles due to stress, overuse, or injury, our skilled therapists can help you feel better and improve your mobility and flexibility. Don’t suffer in silence – book your massage today at our Remedial Studio and experience the healing benefits of deep tissue massage and trigger point therapy.
References:
- Alan David Kaye, Aaron J Kaye, Jan Swinford, Amir Baluch, Brad A Bawcom, Thomas J Lambert, Jason M Hoover. The Effects of Deep Tissue Massage Therapy on Blood Pressure and Heart Rate. Int J Ther Massage Bodywork. 2019;12(2):23-30.
- Elizabeth A Tough, Adrian R White, Suzanne Richards, John Campbell. Variability of criteria used to diagnose myofascial trigger point pain syndrome–evidence from a review of the literature. Clin J Pain. 2007;23(3):278-286.
- Daniel C Cherkin, Karen J Sherman, Janet Kahn, Robert Wellman, Andrea J Cook, Eric Johnson, Janet Erro, Kristin Delaney, Richard A Deyo (2011). A comparison of the effects of deep tissue massage and therapeutic massage on chronic low back pain. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 17(3), 229-238.
- Adelaida María Castro-Sánchez, Guillermo A Matarán-Peñarrocha, Manuel Arroyo-Morales, Manuel Saavedra-Hernández, Cayetano Fernández-Sola, Carmen Moreno-Lorenzo (2011). Effects of myofascial release techniques on pain, physical function, and postural stability in patients with fibromyalgia: a randomized controlled trial. Clinical Rehabilitation, 25(9), 800-813.
- César Fernández-de-las-Peñas, Cristina Alonso-Blanco, Maria Luz Cuadrado, Robert D Gerwin, Juan A Pareja (2006). Trigger points in the suboccipital muscles and forward head posture in tension-type headache. Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain, 46(3), 454-460.
- Albert Moraska, Clint Chandler, Amanda Edmiston-Schaetzel, Gaye Franklin, Elaine L Calenda, Brian Enebo (2008). Comparison of a targeted and general massage protocol on strength, function, and symptoms associated with carpal tunnel syndrome: a randomized pilot study. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 14(3), 259-267.
- Anuphan Tantanatip, Ke-Vin Chang (2004). Myofascial pain syndrome. Journal of Manual & Manipulative Therapy, 12(2), 79-88.