Deep Tissue Massage

What is deep tissue massage?

Deep tissue massage uses slow, controlled movements and sustained, firmer pressure to work on deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. Unlike a lighter relaxation massage, it focuses more intensively on areas of muscular tension and tightness.

Your therapist may use their hands, thumbs, knuckles or forearms to apply pressure to specific muscle groups. Although deep tissue massage is known for its stronger techniques, the pressure can be adjusted to suit your comfort and preferences.

What is deep tissue massage good for?

Deep tissue massage is often chosen by people who enjoy firmer pressure or want focused attention on muscles that feel particularly tight or tense. Common reasons for booking include:

• Neck and shoulder tension: Focused pressure can help ease tight muscles associated with desk work, prolonged sitting and everyday activities.
• Back muscle tightness: Slow, controlled techniques may help relieve feelings of tension in the upper and lower back.
• Leg and hip stiffness: Targeted massage can focus on muscles that feel tight after standing, walking, exercise or physical work.
• Post-exercise muscle soreness: Deep tissue massage can be a relaxing addition to your routine when muscles feel tired or tense after physical activity.
• Persistent muscular tension: Sustained pressure allows your therapist to spend more time working on areas that regularly feel tight or uncomfortable.

Despite the firmer pressure, many people also find the slower pace and focused attention of deep tissue massage calming and relaxing.

Deep tissue massage vs remedial massage - what's the difference?

Deep tissue and remedial massage share some techniques, but they have slightly different approaches. Deep tissue massage emphasises slow, sustained and generally firmer pressure to work on areas of muscular tightness. It's often chosen by people who prefer a stronger massage experience.

Remedial massage is more individually targeted towards specific muscular concerns and may combine different techniques, including lighter or deeper pressure, depending on your needs. Both treatments can be personalised, and your therapist can help you decide which approach is more suitable.

If you prefer gentle strokes and a treatment focused primarily on unwinding, a relaxation massage may be a better choice.

What happens during a deep tissue massage?

Before your massage begins, your therapist will ask about areas of muscle tension, your treatment goals and how much pressure you prefer. Let them know about any sensitive areas, injuries or relevant health conditions so the treatment can be adapted to your needs.

Your session typically involves slow strokes and focused pressure on the muscle groups you'd like treated. Depending on your preferences and appointment length, your therapist may spend additional time on areas such as your shoulders, upper back, lower back or legs.

Communication is important throughout your massage. You can ask for lighter or firmer pressure at any time, and your therapist can adjust their techniques to keep the treatment within your comfort level.

Frequently asked questions