What is Therapeutic Massage Therapy?

What is a Therapeutic Massage?

Therapeutic Massage Therapy is a style of massage therapy which focuses on getting results vs. just relaxing. Using this term indicates that the purpose of the massage is to achieve a structural change or therapeutic benefit in the body. It is style of treatment where massage therapists mobilize your soft tissue (muscles, tendons, fascia, etc) to restore normal functional use. You should expect to feel great long after your therapeutic massage session ends, instead of just relaxing for an hour.

Benefits of Therapeutic Deep Tissue Massage?

Many of the structures in need of massage treatment are deeper in the body. A relaxation massage or lighter-style of massage will not change these deeper soft-tissue structures. Therapeutic Deep Tissue Massage uses heavier pressure to release tissue which is harder to access in the body. It will also break up adhesions and scar tissue in those deeper tissues. This style of work doesn’t have to be painful, especially when applied by a skilled therapist. While at times there can be some “therapeutic discomfort”, most of our clients tell us that this work feels great. It also has much more lasting results and is deeply relaxing.

Is a Therapeutic Deep Tissue Massage a Full-Body Massage

While this style of work can be a full-body massage, usually it is not. Since it is designed to make a change or shift in your body, this work will focus on your area of complaint so you can get a better result. Focused work does not mean that we will only work where you “point”. We will assess your dysfunctional patterns, propose a treatment plan and perform the therapeutic treatment most appropriate for you.

What Should I Expect During my Session?

Expect your therapist to ask you questions about your pain pattern before the session, throughout the treatment and after your appointment. Where does it hurt? When did your tightness or pain start? What else have you tried? How’s my pressure?

Your massage therapist should have you rate your discomfort on a 1-10 scale before and after your session, so you can track progress and make sure you’re getting results. During the treatment, expect to be asked questions which inquire about pressure. Rating discomfort during your treatment is important so we don’t inflict harm. Therapeutic work is usually rated 6-8/10 whle work rated 1-3/10 is likely used to warm up tissue or simply to help you relax. Expect your massage therapist to outline a treatment plan and talk to you about your posture and a home-care routine.

Choosing a Therapeutic Deep Tissue Massage Therapist

When you’re looking for a therapeutic deep tissue massage, find a therapist or clinic which has many years of experience. Inquire about your specific tightness, discomfort or needs to see if this is something the therapist or clinic is familiar working with. Also, ask them if they’re results oriented and if they take treatment notes to track progress. You’re not looking for an hour of relaxation, you need results!

How Boulder Therapeutics can Help You.

At Boulder Therapeutics, we’re here to help. We’ll customize your massage treatment plan, review your routines, educate you on your imbalances and empower you to take care of yourself with stretches & strengthening routines. We’ve worked with injuries, tightness, professional athletes & teams since 1999. And we get RESULTS!