A deep tissue massage targets deep layers of muscle and surrounding tissues. Compared with a Swedish massage, it requires much deeper, slower strokes using tools such as the elbow, the fists and the forearms. It also requires more communication between the massage therapist and the client to ensure a perfect level of pressure without pain. A lot of people have a 'no pain, no gain' ethos with deep tissue massage. However, a deep tissue massage should not be intensely painful; this can cause more damage than good. The feeling should instead be deep pressure and deep release of muscular tension, great for tight or injured muscles that need a more intense treatment than a Swedish massage.

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Deep tissue massage aims to work out the knots and adhesions from stressed, overworked muscles and connective tissue (fascia) to help alleviate immediate pain, as well as referred joint and muscle pain. It also promotes faster healing by increasing blood flow and reducing inflammation; one of my personal favourites is the use of 'trigger point therapy' where knots (commonly in the upper back) are located and held firmly with a finger, thumb or elbow until a feeling of 'release' is felt. 

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Deep tissue massage will be focussed on a particular area rather than a full body massage (e.g. the legs or the upper back). I can incorporate deep tissue techniques into your Swedish massage or I can do a session solely dedicated to the area in need. We will decide the best course of action before your session; each massage is unique and will be tailor-made to benefit you the most.​

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After a deep tissue massage you can expect to feel a little tender in the area that has been worked alongside a feeling of relief and looseness. Your body will be in a much better state of balance and flexibility once areas of tension have been worked on. This can result in a reduction in referred pain in other areas of the body too. 

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If you're new to deep tissue techniques and a little apprehensive but want to give it a go, let me know. I can help introduce it gently and work out whether its the massage style for you, or not!