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Deep Tissue Massage

To begin your deep tissue massage treatment, your massage therapist will first warm up your muscles using warm oils and direct pressure. This helps to relax your top layer of muscle, so your therapist will be able to reach deeper layers of the muscle tissue. Once your muscles are warmed up, your massage therapist will apply deeper pressure using their hands, elbow, knuckles and thumbs. They will apply sustained pressure using slow, deep strokes to target the inner layers of your muscles and connective tissues. This can help to break up any scar tissue that may have formed from an injury or repetitive motion.

During a deep tissue massage, you may feel some discomfort. The discomfort should feel like a "good hurt", the kind that feels good at the same time — like you’re giving your body something it’s been asking for. But it shouldn’t feel painful.  Pain may cause your body to tense up, making it harder for your massage therapist to reach the deeper layers of muscle. So, if you feel any pain, definitely let your massage therapist know. That way they can adjust their technique or further prep your muscles before continuing. It is important to feel open and relaxed with your massage therapist, so that you feel comfortable providing feedback on the pressure and area being worked on. Massage pressure tolerance is incredibly varied from person to person. This is why we often recommend a recurring appointment with a massage therapist you enjoy.

Note: Sometimes your therapist may combine Swedish (aka relaxation massage) massage techniques and deep tissue massage techniques, depending on the issue you’ve described. At Academy Massage Therapy, we like to cater our treatments to the unique needs of our clients. This is why we’ll also start your appointment by asking you what has brought you in, so we can adjust your treatment accordingly.