Deep Tissue massage is a type of therapy where the masseuse uses firm pressure and slow strokes to reach deeper layers of muscle tissue. It uses a more focused technique, as the therapist works to release chronic muscle tension or ‘knots’. Knots can block circulation and cause pain, limited movement, and inflammation.

The Deep Tissue technique is mostly used for chronic aches and pain such as a stiff neck and upper and lower back pain, leg muscle tightness, and sore shoulders.

Generally, when the therapist is working on areas where there are adhesions or scar tissue you may feel some discomfort or some light pain.Pain can also occur when the therapist uses movements against the muscles rather than moving with them. However, you should always feel free to speak up if the pressure is too much for you and the therapist will adjust the technique or reduce the pressure.

It’s not true. Pain isn't necessarily good!In fact, you might unconsciously tense-up, guarding your body from pain and making it harder for the therapist to reach deeper muscles.You are always better off with less pressure, only as much pressure as you can take whilst still feeling relaxed.

Deep Tissue Massage is used for therapy and rehabilitation - not relaxation. It’s possible to feel some soreness the next day. This may last for 48 hours and it is a normal healing process. Stretching and a hot bath may help ease and relieve soreness.

Eases Pain: Deep Tissue Massage can be used for conditions such as tennis elbow, shin splints or low-back pain, potentially providing some much-needed relief.

Breaks up scar tissue:  It can help break up and eventually erase scar tissue.

Improves flexibility:  Regular deep tissue massage can improve flexibility and range of motion, making them less injury prone.

Aids recovery from injuries (e.g. whiplash, falls, sports injury)

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms or illnesses below – it is worth discussing the treatment with a medical professional ahead of time.  I am also happy to discuss whether I can help relieve any of the symptoms – but it’s worth checking-in ahead of time.

Acute injuries– Sprains/ strains within the acute inflammatory stage. Within the first few days of incident, injuries should be avoided. Very light massage during and definitely after this stage can speed recovery time, the healing process, and limit scar tissue formation.

Varicose veins.

Open wounds. Again, massage after the acute stage can help limit scar tissue.

Areas with sensation loss.

DVT (deep vein thrombosis, i.e. blood clots)

Cancer

Bacterial infections. Boils and/or inflamed hair follicles.

Contagious conditions. Cold sores, fungal infections like athlete’s foot and ringworm.

Recent surgery

Pregnancy: Deep Tissue Massage is not allowed during the first trimester of pregnancy as the baby is not stable yet

Fever

Kidney disease

High blood pressure