What is a Deep Tissue Massage? | What are the benefits?

Youu’ve likely heard of deep tissue massage but might not know its purpose or benefits. This form of massage therapy is a common choice for athletes, people with injuries, and those dealing with chronic pain.

Deep tissue massage techniques differ from other forms of massage therapy, so it’s important to determine if this is the right massage style for your needs. This guide will help you understand what a deep tissue massage is, why it’s beneficial, and how to get the most out of your session.

Introduction to Deep Tissue Massage

So, what is a deep tissue massage? This type of massage is often compared to Swedish massage, in which a massage therapist uses gentle kneading or circular movements to relax tight muscles. However, deep tissue massage goes further. During these sessions, massage therapists apply more pressure by using their forearms and elbows to reach deeper layers of muscle tissue, targeting muscle and tendon damage and stiffness.

Deep Tissue Massage Benefits

Deep tissue massage helps relax and de-stress the body and mind while providing potential benefits for various conditions.

Injury Recovery

Addressing an injury is a common reason people seek out deep tissue massage. This technique targets adhesions ー bands of rigid tissue that cause pain and inflammation ー that form in muscles, tendons, and ligaments after an injury. These adhesions can disrupt normal muscle movement and blood flow. Deep tissue massage breaks down these adhesions, reducing pain and potentially improving circulation and movement (1).

Overall, research shows that deep tissue massage can decrease pain in various injuries and conditions when combined with other approved therapies. For example, a 2014 study found that combining deep tissue massage with a self-stretch exercise program helped reduce discomfort associated with plantar heel pain syndrome (2).

Results of another study, focused on individuals with subacute or persistent neck pain, found that in the short-term deep tissue massage therapy was more effective than advice to stay active to address pain intensity (3).

Tension & Stiffness Relief

Individuals with chronic stiffness and tense muscles can also benefit from deep tissue massage techniques. Massage therapists can loosen tight muscles in targeted areas, such as the lower back, neck, and shoulders, with deeper, slower, and more concentrated strokes.

How to Prepare for Your Session

When you make an appointment for a deep tissue massage, there are a few steps you should take to be ready:

1. Stay Hydrated

It’s always important to hydrate, but it is particularly beneficial for a massage. If you’re dehydrated, your muscles will be tighter and less flexible during your session. Drinking water keeps your muscles pliable and allows them to contract more readily, which makes it easier for massage therapists to break up knots and tension.

2. Consider Your Needs and Goals

Before your massage begins, your therapist will ask about any problem areas. Tell them about specific injuries, pain, or areas of concern. Think carefully about what you want to get out of your session ahead of time.

3. Shower or Take a Bath

It’s considered good etiquette to bathe before your massage. Doing so ensures your skin is clean and free of oils, making it easier for your therapist to administer the massage. Most people also find it more comfortable to be freshly clean during a massage.

4. Dress for Comfort

It is a good idea to wear loose, comfortable clothing to your appointment. The loose fit prolongs the relaxed feeling you get post-massage. Additionally, you might feel sore afterward, so cozy clothing will make you much more comfortable.

Deep Tissue Massage Aftercare

Aftercare is just as important as a deep tissue massage. What you do following your session influences how long the effects will last. Here’s what to do following a deep tissue massage:

1. Keep Drinking Water

For the same reasons you should hydrate before your session, drink water after the massage. Hydrating can also help with the soreness you might feel post-massage.

2. Eat Healthy

You don’t want to eat a heavy meal after a massage, but eating something light and nutritious is important. Your body needs nutrients to properly recover from injuries and get the full effects of a deep tissue massage. A good meal should include lean protein, leafy greens, whole grains, and fruits.

3. Get Plenty of Sleep

Your body heals during sleep. Get at least seven hours of sleep the night after your session to allow your muscles to recover from the massage.

Ready for a Deep Tissue Massage at WorldSprings?

WorldSprings is a wellness destination that offers something for everyone. Relax while enjoying a deep tissue massage and other spa services, soak in the therapeutic hot mineral springs, and create lasting memories with friends and family. Visit us online to book your visit.

1. Deep Tissue Massage. National University of Health Sciences. Retrieved January 24, 2025, from, https://www.nuhs.edu/patients/health-information/articles/deep-tissue-massage

2. Saban, B. et al. (April 2014). Deep massage to posterior calf muscles in combination with neural mobilization exercises as a treatment for heel pain: a pilot randomized clinical trial. Man Ther. Retrieved January 24, 2025, from, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24090993/

3. Skillgate, E. et al. (February 2020). Effectiveness of deep tissue massage therapy, and supervised strengthening and stretching exercises for subacute or persistent disabling neck pain. The Stockholm Neck (STONE) randomized controlled trial. Musculoskeletal Science and Practice. Retrieved January 24, 2025, from, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2468781219302036