Deep tissue massages are known as a form of massage therapies that emphasize the realignment of connective tissue and the deepest layers of the muscles. This type of massage is especially beneficial for those who suffer with chronic pain and aches such as a stiff neck, shoulder aches, and upper/lower back pain. In this article, Massage Lee’s Summit dives into answering questions about the benefits of deep tissue massage including does deep tissue massage release toxins?

Many of the strokes that are used in traditional massage therapy are also used in deep tissue massage, however, the movements are a lot slower. There is more pressure placed on specific areas of the body where the client is experiencing pain and tension. Additional pressure is necessary in order for the massage therapist to reach the connective tissue around the muscles (fascia) and the deep muscle layers. 

There are a lot of questions that clients often have about deep tissue massage such as:

– Does deep tissue massage release toxins from the body?

– What types of toxins are released from the body?

– What are the advantages of getting a deep tissue massage?

– How often should a person get a deep tissue massage?

More About Toxins

Society is becoming more health conscious, and as a result, people are always looking for ways to improve their health and to hopefully undo some of the damage they have caused to their bodies in the past. 

With this rise in health consciousness, there are also more discussions about ‘detoxing’ and the best ways to get toxins out of the body. This has led to an unlimited mountain of information both on and offline regarding detoxing, cleanses and even detox foot pads. There are also some massage therapists that believe massages can also help to remove toxins from the body.

When answering the question, does deep tissue massage release toxins it is important to know what toxins are. People often use the words ‘detoxification’ and ‘toxin’ incorrectly. Detoxification is the removal of a harmful substance, and a toxin is a poisonous substance that can cause antibody formation when it is introduced into the muscles and tissues of the body. 

deep tissue benefits explained further

Toxins and the Human Body

There are different types of toxic substances, and many are made in the body. These toxins are a part of the body’s physiological processes. 

For example, there are five organs in the body where body-produced wastes are released from. They are:

– The skin

– The lungs

– The liver

– The kidneys

– The intestines

From these organs, different types of body-produced wastes accumulate within the body. These wastes are catabolic waste, digestive waste, and metabolic waste. 

With that said, deep tissue massages do not flush any toxins out of the body, and that includes lactic acid.

toxins and deep tissue massage

Environmental Toxins

Humans are also exposed to environmental toxins such as metals, pesticides, herbicides, gasoline and other chemical pollutants. Environmental types of toxins are found in the water, building materials, air, soil, cosmetics and other products. 

Once these types of toxins have entered the body, they are either stored, secreted or bio-transformed. The digestive process is an example of bio-transformation. 

The main issue with biotransformation and organic pollutants is that these substances can not be effectively or efficiently changed into substances that can be easily eliminated from the body. As a result, they can become stored in the muscles and tissues of the body. 

The tissues in the body where these pollutants accumulate are the liver, kidneys, bones and adipose tissue. Accumulation is believed to cause many chronic and adverse health conditions. 

Bringing the question of does deep tissue massage release toxins back, use the information shared above when considering the answer. Although it would be great if deep tissue massage could directly remove these substances, it cannot. However, these pollutants can be removed through sweating. 

So, are there any benefits to deep tissue massages?

Deep tissue massages typically focus on the area(s) of the body where a person is experiencing chronic pain or is recovering from an injury such as carpal tunnel syndrome, sports injuries or postural issues. 

Deep tissue massage has been credited with being more effective at relieving pain than prescription medicine, over-the-counter medication, chiropractic, diet or physical therapy. Those who suffer with fibromyalgia pain often notice their range of motion improves after receiving a deep tissue massage. 

benefits of deep tissue massage therapy

Tips to Prepare for Deep Tissue Massage

There are some things that clients can do on their own if they are looking to get the most out of their massage session. By preparing for the massage ahead of time, they will benefit even more from their time on the table. 

Stay Hydrated

One of the first things that a client should do is stay hydrated. Muscles that are hydrated are pliable. This means that the massage therapist will have an easier time breaking the knots in the muscles without causing the client pain or extreme discomfort. Always start drinking more water at least 24 hours before the appointment. 

After the massage is over, continue drinking water. Maintain a high hydration level to help ward off any potential side effects such as nausea and soreness. 

Showering and What to Wear

A shower will also help make the massage experience more relaxing. The warmth of the water will help loosen any tight muscles. 

Wear comfortable and loose clothing during the massage session. Wearing looser clothing will make it easier for the client to put their clothes back on before leaving the clinic. 

Clients should also schedule deep tissue massage therapy appointments at least once a month until the pain is managed, and then at least every six weeks for maintenance. 

Final Notes on Deep Tissue Massage Questions and Benefits

Deep tissue massage offers an array of benefits for those in chronic pain and/or recovering from an injury. Even though there is no scientific evidence that answers yes to the questions does deep tissue massage release toxins from the body, these therapeutic massages offer other health benefits that a person may be missing out on. Massage Lee’s Summit offers the best massage therapy services along with information on all the different therapy techniques. Visit our website to learn more!