Deep tissue massage is a massage technique that focuses on the deeper layers of muscle tissue and is designed to relieve severe tension in the muscle fascia and connective tissue.

It is used to relieve chronic patterns of tension in the body by using slow strokes and deep, direct finger pressure by either following or going against the grain of the muscles, fascia and tendons.

Deep tissue massage usually focuses on specific areas of the body where there is pain, stiffness and tension and can be successfully combined with Swedish massage for an all over satisfying experience.

Benefits of deep tissue massage:

• Reaches the deeper layers of muscle and relieves the tension there
• Releases deeply-held patterns of tension and chronic pain
• Releases toxins from muscles
• Relieves chronic pain resulting from stress, office work, exercise etc.
• Improves circulation of blood and oxygen
• Corrective as well as therapeutic

During a session, make sure to communicate with your therapist about the pressure and if it gets too uncomfortable or painful. Drink lots of water afterwards and stay away from alcohol or drugs for a day or two. The areas that were focused on may be tender for a day afterward, but if the massage was done correctly the pain should go away after 2 days.

It is important to be aware that Deep tissue massage is not a simple, miracle cure of relieving deep seated aches and pains.

Adhesions (knots) in muscles are developed over time, and therefore take time to treat properly. One must maintain a regular massage program, combined with relaxation techniques and stretching at home to really solve the problem on a more long-term.