What Is Deep Tissue Massage?

By Che Young, CMT

New massage clients often request deep tissue massage without really knowing what it is. They know they want to be more than just “rubbed on” and are often under the impression that massage is either light or deep. The reality is that there are dozens of massage modalities and a knowledgeable therapist can choose from several to give you the best massage to suit your goals.

Deep tissue massage is characterized both by the amount of pressure applied and by its muscle specificity. During deep tissue sessions therapists generally work the muscles of your body one region at a time, starting with broad general strokes of a moderate pressure to warm the area up and then using increased pressure they focus on specific muscles and muscles group starting first with those closest to your skin and then the deeper layers of muscle tissue.

Many people wonder if deep tissue massage hurts. It should feel intense and at times “hurt good.” That sensation comes from the areas of your muscles that are tight, knotted, or have adhesions. These are often the areas you are seeking help with. When pressure is applied to the area there is a combined sensation of relief and tenderness that is the “good hurt”. Clients usually like therapists to linger on those spots because despite the tenderness, it is a very enjoyable sensation. Outside of those tender spots a deep tissue massage should feel intense, but pleasurable. Your therapist can adjust the pressure to the level that works best for you. This may be different for different parts of your body, so communicate freely with your therapist.

Although massage therapists are skilled at reading the body and staying alert to your nonverbal cues of both pleasure and pain, you are always encouraged to talk to your therapist about how you are feeling throughout your session. A deep tissue massage should not be so deep that you hold your breath or tighten any of your muscles to brace from the pain. At that point you are reducing the effectiveness of the massage as your breath and relaxation are key in the therapeutic process. It is a good idea to breathe deeply throughout your massage both to oxygenate your muscles and help you cope with the intense sensations.

People love deep tissue massage because it makes them feel good. Deep tissue massage can result in increased range of motion, particularly in joints like the neck, shoulders and hips. Clients also experience relief from both chronic and acute muscular pain. Deep tissue massage is an effective pain management tool. After a deep tissue massage you might feel a little sore. This often sets in the day after the massage, much like the soreness you may feel the day after a workout. If any specific part of you was worked very intensely, icing the area can help minimize the soreness you experience. You will be advised to drink water after your massage, which will minimize soreness.