What is Sarcomere Massage?
Sarcomere Massage is a specialized therapeutic technique developed at Visacova Santé. This approach targets the sarcomere—the smallest functional unit of muscle fibers—to address chronic pain, muscle tightness, and dysfunction. By applying focused pressure and specific techniques, Sarcomere Massage releases deep muscle tension, improves circulation, and restores optimal muscle function.
How Sarcomere Massage Works
When muscle tension becomes chronic, the sarcomeres can become "stuck," leading to tightness, discomfort, and dysfunction. By applying focused pressure and specific techniques, Sarcomere Massage helps release these restrictions, allowing the muscles to function more efficiently and reducing pain.
Beyond muscle fibers, Sarcomere Massage also addresses adhesions, trigger points, scar tissue, tendons, fascia, and nerve compression, providing a comprehensive approach to relieving discomfort and improving overall soft tissue health.
How Sarcomere Massage Affects
Tendons, Fascia, and Nerve Compression
Tendons
-
Tendons are the connective tissue that attaches muscles to bones. When tendons are tight or inflamed due to overuse, injury, or poor posture, they can cause pain and restricted movement. Tendons heal slower than muscles because of their limited blood supply, making them more susceptible to tension and stiffness.
-
Sarcomere Massage helps release tension not just in the muscle tissue but also in the surrounding tendons. By applying controlled pressure, the therapist can promote better circulation in the tendon, encouraging healing and reducing stiffness. This is especially important for conditions like tendonitis or tendinopathy, where tendons have become inflamed and painful.
Fascia
-
Fascia is the connective tissue that surrounds and supports muscles, tendons, and organs. When fascia becomes tight or restricted, it can cause a feeling of stiffness or a "rubber band" effect, limiting movement and contributing to pain.
-
Sarcomere Massage works with the fascia to release tightness and adhesions. As pressure is applied, the fascia responds by becoming more pliable and elastic, which helps restore the natural glide between muscles and connective tissues. This release of fascia tension enhances the freedom of movement and helps improve overall flexibility.
Soft Tissue Nerve Compression
-
Soft tissue nerve compression occurs when muscles, fascia, or other soft tissues press on nerves, leading to symptoms such as tingling, numbness, or pain that radiates along the nerve's pathway. Conditions like sciatica (periformis syndrome), carpal tunnel syndrome, or thoracic outlet syndrome often result from this type of compression, where the surrounding soft tissues create pressure on the nerves. It's important to note that soft tissue nerve compression (caused by muscle, fascia, or tendon tightness) can lead to nerve compression, which differs from spinal compression that involves pressure from the spine itself.
-
In Sarcomere Massage, the therapist uses specialized techniques to release pressure from the nerves by addressing the muscles and fascia that may be contributing to the compression. By targeting the soft tissues around the nerves, the therapist can improve the space available for nerve movement, reduce pain, and promote better nerve function. This approach helps alleviate the discomfort caused by nerve compression and supports overall neurological health.
The Sensations You May Experience During Sarcomere Massage
Sarcomere Massage is a deeper form of massage therapy, and it may feel intense at times, especially when addressing chronic tension or deep muscle restrictions. Here's what you can expect during the session:
-
Pressure and Discomfort: You may experience intense pressure in areas of muscle tension. While it may be uncomfortable, it should not be unbearable. Communicate with your therapist to keep it within your comfort zone.
-
Heat Sensation: As pressure is applied, you may feel warmth in the treated areas, due to increased circulation.
-
Burning Sensation: A burning or tingling sensation may occur, especially in fascia or deep muscle areas. This is normal during the release of tight connective tissue.
-
Muscle Stiffness and Soreness: Some soreness may occur after the session, similar to post-workout discomfort. Hydration and gentle stretching can help.
-
Relief and Increased Mobility: After the treatment, most clients experience relief, increased range of motion, and a feeling of lightness and improved mobility.
What Happens After the Session
After a Sarcomere Massage, you may feel reduced pain and rejuvenated as your muscles return to a more balanced state. It’s common to experience some delayed soreness as the muscles continue to adjust and heal.
To support recovery:
-
Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to help flush out any metabolic waste released during the session.
-
Gentle Movement: Light stretching or walking will help maintain flexibility and prevent the muscles from tightening back up.
-
Rest: Allow your body time to fully recover, especially if deep-seated tension was released during the session.
Is Sarcomere Massage Right for You?
Sarcomere Massage is highly effective for those dealing with chronic pain, muscle stiffness, adhesions, scar tissue, or muscle imbalances. It’s ideal for anyone looking to enhance flexibility, improve mobility, or recover from sports injuries, repetitive strain, or chronic conditions like nerve compression or fascia-related pain.
If you’re looking for a targeted, effective approach to muscle health and pain relief, Sarcomere Massage offers a comprehensive solution that works at a deeper level to restore balance and promote healing in your muscles, tendons, fascia, and nerves.
Book your appointment today and experience the lasting relief and improved mobility that Sarcomere Massage can offer.