What Is A Deep Tissue Massage?

Deep tissue massage is a type of massage that aims to release chronic tension patterns, improve flexibility and range of motion, and reduce stress and anxiety. It can be particularly useful for people with chronic conditions, such as fibromyalgia, sciatica, chronic headaches, athletes or anyone who engages in regular physical activity.

So what is a deep tissue massage exactly? Deep muscle and connective tissue layers are the focus of a deep tissue massage, which is therapeutic in nature. Through the use of slow, gentle strokes that either go in the same direction as the tendons, muscles and fascia or in the opposite direction, deep finger pressure helps to release tension in the body.

What Happens During a Deep Tissue Massage?

During a deep tissue massage, the therapist uses strong pressure and slow strokes to reach the deep layers of muscles and fascia. This focuses on specific areas of the body that may be experiencing chronic pain, recovering from an injury or suffering from stress-related tension.

A deep tissue massage usually focuses on areas of the body that tend to be sources of chronic pain and tension, such as the back, shoulders, neck and legs. These areas tend to hold a lot of stress and tension, and the massage techniques are intended to alleviate this tension and promote relaxation. Techniques used in deep tissue massage include the following:

  • Cross-fibre friction

Cross-fibre friction massage is a method of manipulating the muscles by applying pressure perpendicular to the muscle fibres. It is commonly used to break up scar tissue and adhesions that can build up in the muscles. This technique is believed to aid in healing and enhance the range of motion.

  • Trigger point therapy

Trigger point therapy is a soft-tissue treatment specifically helpful in releasing tension, knots and fascia. This kind of treatment might include sustained pressure, posture and movement correction, electrical stimulation, dry needling, and massage. 

  • Myofascial release

Myofascial release is a type of hands-on therapy that aims to relieve stress in the fascia, the connective tissue that encases the muscles. This approach is believed to increase flexibility and movement and alleviate discomfort.

  • Active release technique (ART)

ART is a manual therapy method that utilises movement and pressure to alleviate muscle and soft tissue tension and soreness. This approach is commonly used to manage pain, muscle injuries and tendons.

  • Muscle energy technique (MET)

MET is another manual therapy that utilises the patient’s muscle contractions to alleviate tension and enhance flexibility. The therapist directs the patient through specific exercises to help release tension in the targeted muscle or muscle group. The purpose of this technique is to improve the range of motion and release tension in the muscle.

Who Should Consider Getting a Deep Tissue Massage?

If you understand what is a deep tissue massage, then you know that it is intended to alleviate chronic pain and muscle tension. This makes it a suitable option for certain individuals, including people who experience chronic pain or muscle tension. They may find relief from deep tissue massage, as it can release muscle tension and improve circulation, thereby reducing pain and stiffness. It also benefits people who suffer from conditions such as fibromyalgia, sciatica and carpal tunnel syndrome.

Another group of people who may benefit from this massage technique are athletes or active individuals. These individuals may experience tight and tired muscles due to repetitive motions and intense training. Deep-tissue massage can help to alleviate these symptoms, improving flexibility and reducing the risk of injury.

Deep tissue massage can also be beneficial for people recovering from injuries. It can help reduce inflammation and swelling, promote healing and restore flexibility to the affected area. By targeting the deep layers of muscle tissue, deep tissue massage can accelerate recovery and improve overall function.

Potential Benefits of Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage aims to relieve chronic muscle tension and knots, which can result in various positive effects on the body and mind.

  • Improved circulation

A deep tissue massage can be beneficial for improving blood and oxygen flow throughout the body. This can help with reducing muscle soreness, increasing flexibility and supporting the immune system.

  • Reduced stress and anxiety

Anxiety and stress can cause physical tension in the muscles. Massaging the deeper layers of muscle tissue can help alleviate this tension, leading to a more relaxed state and reduced stress and anxiety.

  • Improved sleep

One way to enhance sleep quality is by having a deep tissue massage, which can aid in relaxation and decrease muscle tension. This can lead to an improved sleep experience and refreshment upon waking up.

Be at Your Best With FlexiFit Physiotherapy

A deep tissue massage is a therapeutic technique that targets the deeper layers of muscle tissue. This form of massage can be particularly helpful for individuals who suffer from chronic pain, restricted movement, or muscle tension. It is important to seek a trained and experienced practitioner who can tailor the massage to your specific needs and preferences.

At FlexiFit Physiotherapy, we take a holistic, preventative approach to managing pain. Our team believes that building a strong foundation of overall health can prevent future chronic pain and movement problems. Contact us here for more details. 

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FlexiFit Physiotherapy
FlexiFit Physiotherapy
94 Google reviews
J
J
I can commend Georgia and Tessa for their excellent hands-on approach. So many physios nowadays are often hands-off, so being treated at FF has been a refreshing change 🙌🏻
Kirsten Alexander
Kirsten Alexander
Georgia and Tessa are both friendly and professional and have helped fix my injuries and get me moving again. They are very hands on and I highly recommend them
Danielle de Gail
Danielle de Gail
The girls at FlexiFit are simply amazing. So kind, friendly, understanding and knowledgeable. They know exactly what my body needs. My neck pain has improved dramatically since going here. Love my visits!
Meil's Curic
Meil's Curic
The team at FlexiFit Physio are exceptional practitioners who genuinely care about the outcomes for their clients. When you book with Georgia or Tessa you know you have their full attention for the session, they are not juggling multiple clients and their hands on therapeutic approach is seamless and extremely effective to reduce pain and enable progression from injury. I can not recommend them more highly. Thanks guys!
Julia Fujikawa
Julia Fujikawa
My experience at FlexiFit Physiotherapy has been truly exceptional, and I would wholeheartedly recommend both Georgia and Tessa to anyone in search of effective support for managing persistent pain conditions. Both Georgia and Tessa have been integral to my journey in addressing both acute knee pain and long-standing issues with back pain, tension headaches, and migraines. In the past, my interactions with healthcare professionals haven't always yielded lasting results. However, the level of attentiveness and authentic care they've shown for my overall well-being and the underlying causes of my pain are clearly reflected in their hands-on approaches, follow- up care and advice and healing strategies. I feel so lucky to have found this practice.
Yolande Van Vuuren
Yolande Van Vuuren
These girls saved my day! Professional & friendly service… despite being fully booked, they were quick to respond & help me on the first possible cancellation! Felt so bad with vertigo, was off balance and literally needed support & help to get into the rooms, walked out a different person, independent & without help… just amazing!
Jenny Duke
Jenny Duke
I’ve been seeing firstly Georgia and then Tessa at Flexifit Physiotherapy since I moved to the area early in 2022. I went there initially because I wanted a physiotherapist in the Collaroy area, but then I stayed because they really help. They have always listened to my various problems, asked questions and then worked using both hands-on therapy and have given me exercises to do at home to complement the treatment, making sure I knew what I was doing and doing it correctly. You get their undivided attention for the whole appointment and it never feels like you are being rushed through as just another body to be treated and that they’d rather be somewhere else. Thank you and long may you keep up the good work!!!
Elizabeth Koudsy
Elizabeth Koudsy
Highly recommend the professional, personalised and friendly service delivered by both Tessa and Georgia. I sort after their expertise to alleviate back/shoulder/neck aches. Their hands on treatment style is effective and worth a visit. I feel like I have a new lease on life after an appointment.
Alan Bowers
Alan Bowers
Sisters are doing it... After years of uncomfortable aches and twinges I was referred to FlexiFit. Georgia is my therapist and I'm ecstatic to report no more sleep deprived nights and an improved range of movement in my shoulders and overhead. Coupled with an arsenal of exercises for prevention. I give you 5/5 Georgia - Thank you, so very much
Ivona Richter
Ivona Richter
Georgia is just amazing!! The treatment is personalised and hands on, providing exceptional results. I have no hesitation in recommending her services to anyone!!