Deep Tissue Neck Massage: What to Expect

Deep tissue massage is a type of therapeutic massage that works extremely well when it comes to releasing tension and stiffness in all of the major muscle groups in specific areas of the body, including the neck. Deep tissue neck massage can provide you with instant relief that lasts longer than most pain medications.

Deep tissue massage techniques are so effective that professional athletes often use them to help prevent and treat injuries. Multiple sessions may be needed to create change in the muscle tissue and offer long term relief from pain and discomfort.

What to Expect When You Get a Deep Tissue Neck Massage

Why Your Neck is so Tight in the First Place

• Cold Temperatures– colder weather causes us to tense up, and that tension will build over time causing neck pain.
• Computer Work – Sitting at a desk and working on a computer all day is a huge factor when it comes to neck tension. This tension and pain comes from poor posture and/or leaning over your keyboard for long periods of time. If you are the type of person that works a desk job and are consistently looking down at your keyboard or sitting incorrectly, this could be the source of your pain.
• Stress – Muscle tension, aches, and pains often follow an episode of nervousness, anxiety, fear, and elevated stress. If you are a person who suffers with chronic stress, this could very well be the cause of your chronic pain.
• Exercising Incorrectly – We all know that exercise is good for our bodies, but if you lift weights, do yoga, or another type of weight-bearing exercise without proper form it could actually harm your body.
  

How to Prepare For Your Massage

You don’t have to do much to prepare for your deep tissue neck massage. Do some light stretching and massaging of the neck for a couple of days before your massage if possible. I also suggest that you drink plenty of water 24 hours before your appointment.

Will the Massage Hurt?

This is an extremely common question, and the honest answer is that it might be uncomfortable at times due to the firm pressure put on the deep muscles. With that being said, massage should never cause intolerable pain. The level of pain will of course depend on individual pain tolerance, but should never exceed a 7 on a scale from 1 to 10. When I ask my clients what amount of pressure they prefer, some say “You can’t hurt me” to communicate that they prefer firm and deep work. The truth is you can be hurt by massage done incorrectly, so seek out an experienced, professional massage therapist that excels at deep tissue massage when scheduling your session.

What To Do After Your Massage

Once your massage is over, you may want to put ice on the areas that your therapist applied extra pressure to. This will help reduce inflammation and prevent unnecessary pain and swelling. You may be sore for a few days after the massage. Also, make sure you drink plenty of water after your massage. Drinking water is essential for keeping your body tissues hydrated and flexible, but it’s especially important following a deep tissue massage. And do not hesitate to ask your therapist for stretches you can do to prevent those muscles from tensing up again after your session.

Deep tissue massage, particularly on an area as delicate as the neck, should always be performed by a trained massage therapist. It is one of the best ways to combat painful neck tension, and although it may not be the most relaxing massage you have ever received, it will definitely provide relief so you can get back to your life pain-free.

If you feel that deep tissue massage or another type of massage therapy is right for you, schedule your appointment today.