Therapeutic deep pressure targeting chronic pain, muscle knots, and tension. Ideal for athletes, those with physically demanding jobs, or chronic pain sufferers.
What is Deep Tissue Massage?
Deep tissue massage uses firm pressure and slow strokes to reach deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue (fascia). Unlike relaxation massage, which focuses on surface muscles, deep tissue work targets chronic tension, adhesions (knots), and areas of persistent pain.
This therapeutic technique is particularly effective for chronic aches, contracted areas such as stiff necks, upper back pain, low back pain, leg muscle tightness, and shoulder pain. It's not simply "harder pressure"—it's strategic, focused work that addresses specific problem areas.
Best For
- Chronic Muscle Tension: Persistent knots and tight areas that won't release with lighter massage
- Sports Injuries: Recovery from athletic activities, training, or competition
- Postural Problems: Tension from poor posture, desk work, or repetitive movements
- Repetitive Strain: Injuries from repeated movements (typing, lifting, manual labor)
- Limited Mobility: Restricted range of motion due to muscle tightness
- Chronic Pain Conditions: Fibromyalgia, arthritis pain management (with doctor approval)
- Post-Injury Rehabilitation: Recovery from sprains, strains, or accidents
Benefits of Deep Tissue Massage
💪 Breaks Up Muscle Knots
Releases adhesions (knots) that cause pain and restrict movement.
🩺 Reduces Chronic Pain
Effective for long-term pain management in back, neck, and shoulders.
🏃 Speeds Athletic Recovery
Helps muscles recover faster from intense physical activity.
🧘 Improves Mobility
Increases range of motion by releasing tight, restricted muscles.
📉 Lowers Blood Pressure
Studies show deep tissue massage can help reduce blood pressure.
😌 Reduces Stress
Even therapeutic work triggers relaxation response and stress relief.
What to Expect
Before Your Session: We'll discuss your pain areas, what causes them, and your goals. Deep tissue work requires clear communication about pressure and discomfort levels.
During Your Session: You'll feel firm, sustained pressure focusing on problem areas. Some discomfort is normal—the "good hurt" of releasing tight tissue. However, it should never be unbearable. Always communicate if pressure is too intense.
After Your Session: You may feel immediate relief or temporary soreness (similar to post-workout soreness). Drink plenty of water. Soreness typically resolves within 24-48 hours, revealing improved mobility and reduced pain.
Deep Tissue vs. Relaxation Massage
Deep Tissue
- Firm, focused pressure
- Targets specific problem areas
- Therapeutic goal-oriented
- May cause temporary soreness
- Best for chronic issues
Relaxation
- Gentle to moderate pressure
- Full-body, general treatment
- Stress relief focus
- Rarely causes soreness
- Best for stress & general wellness
Not sure which is right for you? We can combine both approaches in a single session!
Common Treatment Areas
- Lower Back: Chronic lower back pain, sciatica
- Shoulders & Neck: Office worker tension, tech neck
- Upper Back: Knots between shoulder blades
- Hips & Glutes: Hip pain, piriformis syndrome
- Legs: IT band, hamstrings, calf tightness
- Arms: Tennis elbow, repetitive strain
Techniques Used
- Stripping: Deep, gliding pressure along muscle fibers
- Friction: Pressure applied across muscle grain to break up adhesions
- Trigger Point Therapy: Sustained pressure on specific points of tension
- Myofascial Release: Stretching fascia to release restrictions
- Active Release: You move the muscle while therapist applies pressure
Is Deep Tissue Massage Painful?
There's often discomfort, but it shouldn't be unbearable. Think of it as "good pain"—the satisfying sensation of releasing a knot. Pain scale should be 6-7 out of 10 at most.
Important: More pressure doesn't always mean better results. Overly aggressive work can cause your muscles to tense up defensively. Effective deep tissue massage finds the right balance.
Contraindications
Deep tissue massage may not be appropriate if you have:
- Recent surgery or wounds
- Blood clots or clotting disorders
- Osteoporosis or bone fractures
- Active cancer or undergoing chemotherapy (without doctor approval)
- Severe bruising or skin conditions
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure
When in doubt, consult your healthcare provider before booking.
Recommended Frequency
- Acute Issues: Weekly sessions until resolved
- Chronic Conditions: Bi-weekly to start, then monthly for maintenance
- Athletes: Weekly during training, bi-weekly off-season
- Prevention: Monthly to prevent issues from developing
Aftercare Tips
- Drink plenty of water (helps flush metabolic waste)
- Light stretching 24 hours after
- Ice any areas of significant soreness
- Avoid intense workouts for 24 hours
- Allow your body to rest and integrate the work
Ready to Address Chronic Pain?
Book your Deep Tissue Massage and experience lasting relief.