Deep Tissue Study Guide 1

The Rules of Muscles

1. Muscles that are anterior on the body perform flexion

2. Muscles that are posterior on the body perform extension

3. Origins are proximal/ medial on the body

4. Insertions are distal/ lateral to the body

5. A muscle that crosses a joint acts on that joint

6. Origin attachment is less mobile than the insertion attachment

7. Flexion decreases joint angle/ extension increases joint angle

Deep Tissue

Fascia - an uninterrupted 3D web of connective tissue that runs through the entire body. Surrounds muscles and organs; protects, connects and aids in movement and stability

• Methods of releasing fascia

- 2-finger"push-pull" - J stroke - Skin rolling

- S Bend - Cross hand release

Fascial restriction: Negatively affects mobility and comfort by adhesions that can prevent full movement of individual, sections and whole muscle groups. Fascial dysfunction can also constrict nerves, causing pain and allowing damaging effects of friction.

Deep Tissue Massage vs Swedish Massage

Swedish Massage focuses on moving blood and lymph through the body.

Deep Tissue focuses on muscles and fascia.

Major differences: Goals and intent, comfort, intensity, flow/ routine, interaction, recovery, benefits, and frequency

Art Riggs: 7 Deep tissue techniques

1. Lengthening strokes

2. Cross fiber strokes

3. Anchor and stretch

4. Working in direction of stretch

5. Freeing muscles from entrapment

6. Allowing shortening

7. Separating muscle compartments

2 Standard rules of pressure

1. Deeper: slower

2. Massage deep enough to be effective and not cause harm

The most common misconception about Deep Tissue Massage: The massage must be heavy pressure and has to be painful