The term “deep tissue” refers to the system of connective tissue supporting and connecting the soft-tissue structures of the body, also called fascia. Deep-tissue massage is a manipulative therapy centered on treatment of said connective tissues and muscles. Often called connective-tissue massage (CTM), it aims at releasing tension and relieving pain from deep within the tissue in order to trigger healing in the internal organs.
This system of bodywork is grounded in the belief that changes in the superficial tissues (i.e., increased muscle tone, changed interstitial fluid in the tissues, hypersensitivity to touch) are indicative of dysfunctions in the deep tissues; these interactions are provoked by the body’s neural reflexes.[i] In utilizing deep-tissue techniques, then, massage therapists manipulate the surface of the body to stimulate reactions deep within the body.
To address specific dysfunctions, the body is divided into several reflex zones, each of which corresponds to an internal organ. Because of this, the client must be thoroughly consulted and examined before their treatment. Practitioners observe changes in the connective tissue, identify the reflex zone wherein the changes have occurred, and then treat that zone to improve the function of its corresponding organ. To execute the massage, they apply firm pressure to the affected areas of the body with the fingertips and palms in the form of gliding and cutting strokes. Additional techniques involve pulling and stretching the skin to soften the connective tissue.
History
The historical roots of deep-tissue techniques are somewhat uncertain. Some claim this touch therapy was first used in ancient Egypt while others believe its origins to be much less prehistoric. Regardless of its ancestry, however, experts agree that the modern incarnation of CTM was pioneered by Elizabeth Dicke, a German physiotherapist, in 1928. While suffering from a circulatory dysfunction in her right leg, Dicke performed deep-tissue techniques on herself; and when her circulation successfully improved, she began conducting research on her methods.[ii]
In 1989, John Latz, another prominent pioneer of CTM, attempted to optimize preceding methods of treatment by delineating five underlying principles of deep-tissue therapy:
- Leaning controlled body weight into the client
- Maintaining alignment
- Movement through the alignment
- Using oblique angles of contact
- Contacting with soft and relaxed hands and body.[iii]
Latz founded the Institute for Structural Integration (ISI) in 1992, after receiving advanced certification in massage therapy from the Rolf Institute. He is often accredited as a developer of the deep-tissue technique.
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Health Benefits
The most apparent health benefit resulting from deep-tissue massage therapy is the alleviation of chronic pain and tension. This includes pain associated with sports-related injuries, arthritis, fibromyalgia, carpal tunnel syndrome, sciatica and other musculoskeletal conditions. Deep-tissue massage also results in improved posture and increased flexibility. Individuals suffering from restricted mobility may experience an extended range of motion.
- “Connective Tissue Massage.” www.plaza.ufl.edu/ltji/massage-types/connective-tissue.html. Accessed Nov. 4, 2013.
- Luedecke, U. (1969). “History, Basis and Techniques of Connective Tissue Massage.” Australian Journal of Physiotherapy, 15 (4). 141-47.
- Latz, J. “CTM.” Institute for Structural Integration. www.johnlatz.com. Published May 2001. Accessed Nov. 4, 2013.