Massage is an ancient practice that over the centuries has developed a variety of techniques. One of the deepest and most intense forms of massage is the deep tissue. In this technique, the therapist will go into the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue, commonly known as fascia to relieve tension. However, with all the benefits associated with deep tissue massage, you can also have side effects such as bruising.
Fundamentals of bruises
Bruises, also called muscle contusions, are areas of the skin where damage to the underlying connective tissue or muscle fibers occurs, causing bleeding under the skin. Since the skin is not broken blood extends below the skin, giving the appearance of black, blue or purple on the surface. The more blood to see involved, the greater the hematoma.
Pressure deep tissue
The bruising deep tissue massage is associated with the pressure your therapist on muscle tissue. In deep tissue therapist focuses more on the underlying fascia under the muscle, exerting enough pressure to loosen the areas that have been “joined”, commonly known as “knots”. The pressure required to successfully treat the nodes can result in damage causing a hematoma. However, it is important to note that not all deep tissue massages end in bruises. Furthermore, deep tissue massage can be a little uncomfortable at times, but it is a mistake to think that the treatment of deep tissues are, or should be, painful. These treatments are designed to reduce the pain, not to create it.
Easy bruising
Note that the bruises are more common if you own a skin with easy bruising, or suffer from a condition that leaves skin prone to bruising. For example, the ease of obtaining bruising becomes more common with age, due to the aging of the hair and the skin is thinner. There are conditions that cause blood clotting problems, or medications such as blood clotting drugs or corticosteroids, which can also make your skin more prone to bruise due to a deep tissue massage.
Alternatives
Not all types of pressure are so deep massage for muscle tissue. If you have sensitive skin prone to bruising, or if you suffer from a disorder that makes you susceptible to bruising, consider a lighter massage technique. For example, a Swedish massage pressure typically used less and longer strokes, exerting less pressure on areas susceptible to bruising. You can also ask your therapist to use less pressure if you are experiencing pain.
Treatment
If you experience bruises deep tissue massage, apply an ice pack or cold compress on the skin with the hematoma. The ice pack placed several times a day for about 48 hours after bruising occurred. If pain accompanies bruising, use a pain medication without prescription as acetaminophen or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen.