Deep tissue massage targets chronic tension in muscles that lie far below the body’s surface. Deep muscle techniques involve slow strokes, direct pressure or friction movements that go across the muscle grain. When there is chronic muscle tension or injury, there are usually adhesions (bands of painful, rigid tissue) in the patient’s muscles, tendons, and ligaments, which can block circulation and cause pain, limited movement, as well as inflammation. Deep tissue massage works by physically breaking down adhesions to relieve pain and restore normal movement.

Unlike classic massage therapy, which is used for relaxation, deep tissue massage usually focuses on a specific problem such as chronic pain, limited mobility, recovery from injuries (e.g. whiplash, falls, sports injury) and repetitive strain injury, such as carpal tunnel syndrome.

The purpose of deep tissue massage is to release the chronic patterns of tension in the body through slow strokes and deep finger pressure on the contracted areas.  Deep tissue massage can help to alleviate chronic pain, reduce stress, and improve posture.It is also used to break up scar tissue, reduce inflammation, and improve circulation. By increasing blood flow and oxygen to the affected area, deep tissue massage also helps to break up adhesions and knots, which can cause discomfort and limit the range of motion.

What to expect at a deep tissue massage session

Before a deep tissue massage session, your therapist will discuss your goals and medical conditions and ask about any areas of concern. It's important to provide accurate information for a customised session. Deep tissue massage can be uncomfortable at times, as it targets deeper muscles, but the therapist will adjust the pressure and technique to ensure comfort. Drink plenty of water after the massage to stay hydrated. 

During the session, the therapist will use firm pressure and slow strokes with hands, fingers, and elbows and may use other techniques like stretching, kneading, and cupping. Some soreness after the session is normal and should go away within a day or two. In the end, the therapist will check on your comfort and provide tips on managing any discomfort. Your session should feel like manageable pain, rather than scary pain, and as though you’re accomplishing something each time.

Nine Benefits of Deep Tissue Massage

Reduced inflammation - Inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury or irritation and can lead to pain, swelling, and other uncomfortable symptoms. Deep tissue massage is an effective way to reduce inflammation and its associated symptoms.

Improved posture - Good posture is important for our health and well-being, and deep tissue massage can help maintain proper alignment and reduce pain and discomfort caused by poor posture. Deep tissue massage helps improve posture by addressing underlying tension and muscle imbalances in the body. It stretches and loosens tight muscles, improves joint flexibility through circulation, releases endorphins, and reduces tension and stress. These benefits also lead to better balance and body coordination. 

Relief from chronic muscle pain - Deep tissue massage can provide relief from chronic muscle pain by targeting the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. This releases built-up tension and reduces inflammation, leading to increased flexibility and reduced pain. 

Reduced scar tissue - Scar tissue is a common problem for many people, whether it’s from an injury, surgery, or something else, and can cause pain, limited range of motion, and other issues. Fortunately, deep tissue massage can help break up scar tissue, allowing for improved mobility and reduced pain. The massage therapist can use kneading and circular motions to break up scar tissue and increase blood flow to the area to promote faster healing.

Increased joint flexibility and range of motion - Deep tissue massage can increase joint flexibility and range of motion by targeting knots and adhesions in the deeper muscle tissue using slow, deep strokes and pressure to break up adhesions and improve circulation of blood and lymph fluids.

Reduced stress - When you are tired, the body releases hormones, one of which is cortisol, which is how the body responds to stress. By reducing cortisol levels and helping to relax the body, deep tissue massage can lead to improved sleep, mood, energy levels, and an overall reduction in stress.

Reduced headaches - Headaches are a common, debilitating problem that can disrupt our ability to enjoy both home and work life. Fortunately, deep tissue massage can be an effective way to reduce headaches and provide relief.  Deep tissue massage works to reduce tension in the muscles and tissues of the head, neck, and shoulders, which are the areas most commonly associated with headaches. In addition to relieving tension in the muscles, deep tissue massage can also help improve circulation so that more oxygen and nutrients can be delivered to the tissues in the head and neck.