While many of the same techniques used in Swedish massage are also used in deep tissue massage, the pressure is typically more intense and focused and will usually be focused on problem areas and stiff muscles.

Deep Tissue massage is designed to relieve severe tension (or injuries/adhesions) in the muscles of the neck and back and in the connective tissue, called fascia. It is “deep tissue” because it targets the muscles located below the surface of the top muscles, and will invariably work out hard knots or adhesions that exist in those muscles. The deep tissue massage involves stretching fascia, connective tissue that surrounds, supports and penetrates all of the muscles, bones, nerves and organs. Our deep tissue massage therapist works layer by layer through connective tissue and muscles and reaches down to the deepest accessible layers to loosen stiffness and improve  freedom of movement by releasing fascial adhesions and chronic muscle contraction issues. Deep tissue massage therapists use their fingers, thumbs, fists, forearms and elbows to stretch each muscle and fascia layer.  This can help the healing process for adhesions and scar tissue form in muscles because of injury, chronic poor posture, chronic or acute inflammation and repetitive motions.

So why would you need a deep tissue massage versus a Swedish massage?  For startes, they’re great for people who sit or stand in one position all day or who engage in physical activity on a regular basis. Muscles have a tendency to compensate for each another, creating an imbalance in the muscular structure of the body. Deep tissue massage eases the tension and alleviates stress on muscle groups.

While a deep tissue massage may be uncomfortable in comparison to Swedish massage, it shouldn’t hurt and your Absolute Massage Therapist in Kanata, Almonte, Carleton Place will always ask you to provide feedback if the pressure becomes to much to handle.

Some common reasons to consider a deep tissue massage include:

1. Chronic pain in a particular muscle group.
2. You are consistently involved in heavy exercise, physical activity, etc.
3. To overcome lingering injuries. These massages will help work out any kinks or knots that have formed as a result of that injury.

For residents in Kanata, Almonte, Carleton Place, Absolute Massage offers deep tissue massage to address deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue.  The deep tissue massage can be be tender, but communication with your therapist will ensure that it stays within your comfort level.