Deep Tissue Massage

Deep Tissue Massage is more than just a very firm massage with a lot of pressure exerted by the therapist. Although pressure is important, the intent is different from a Swedish or light oil massage.

With Deep Tissue Massage, the therapist is primarily working on the body’s connective tissue or ‘fascia’. Fascia can be found almost everywhere in the body; they sheath muscle fibres and the muscles themselves, form ligaments and tendons, and surround bones, organs, even the brain and spinal cord. They are both the glue and the protective covering of so much in the body. When the fascia are healthy they will move freely with the body. However, after injury, illness or prolonged lack of movement, the fascia can become hardened and stick to surrounding structures. This can cause pain, a reduction in the range of motion of an affected joint, and hardening fascia can accentuate poor postural patterns, for instance Dowagers Hump in the upper back. In Deep Tissue Massage, the therapist’s intention is to soften and help release chronically tight fascia which will allow the body to re-find its correct posture.

The sessions

At the start of a Deep Tissue Massage session the therapist will assess the client’s needs. He will then work specifically on areas that require release. The therapist uses a variety of long, deep strokes, slowly paced in specific areas to create softening and release, along with applied pressure and therapeutic stretching. The effect of working in one area will be felt in the whole body. Deep Tissue Massage of the whole body in one 60-minute- session is not possible nor is it advisable to work so deeply on all the body in one session.

The benefits of DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE

Deep Tissue Massage can be highly effective for

• Reducing chronic soft tissue pain in areas such as the back, neck, shoulders, and legs – Breaking up old scar tissue that has ‘stuck’ to surrounding tissue (adhesions)
• Speeding up healing time of muscular and soft tissue injuries, strains and sprains
• Reducing tightness and improving flexibility and joint range of motion

For appointment costs, please visit the individual practitioners’ pages.