Deep tissue massage focuses on the deeper layers of muscle tissue. It is performed by deep elbow pressure and slow strokes on the contracted areas across muscle fibers, tendons and fascia. These techniques release the chronic patterns of tension in the body. This technique will aid in breaking up and realigning scar tissue. At first it may cause some minor pain but this will soon fade away.

Two techniques are used in Deep tissue massage: One is direct and the other indirect. The direct method attempts to find resistance in the body and the registered massage therapist will apply pressure to the muscle in order to locate this. The pressure is applied until the muscle resistance is released. The indirect method will move in the opposite direction of the resistance. The amount of resistance will determine the amount of pressure that needs to be applied.

There are quite a few reasons to have deep tissue massage. Tight muscle blocks oxygen and nutrients. This in turn causes a build up of toxins in the muscle tissue which leads to inflammation of the muscle. Deep tissue massage will loosen up this tight muscle, therefore, it improves circulation of the blood and oxygen and releases toxins from the muscles.  That's why it's important to drink as much water as possible after your massage, to flush out the toxins from your body.

Deep tissue massage will also relieve tension both mentally and physically. When you relax the muscles you will also release stress and mental tension. This in turn will improve your overall health.

However deep tissue massage should only ever be done by a registered massage therapist.  Also, in some cases, it is not advisable.  For example, deep tissue massage should never be done directly over bruised or inflamed skin or areas that have recently suffered a fracture, tumors, abdominal hernia, rashes or skin disease.

Patients suffering from heart disease or edema, phlebitis and thrombosis, should not have deep tissue massage treatments. Postoperative patients and pregnant women should also avoid this therapy, as should those undergoing radiation, or chemotherapy.

Although this massage therapy can be very beneficial you should always consult your registered massage therapist before having this treatment. Do not expect miracles, sometimes it takes a few sessions to see changes occur, especially if you have a long-standing chronic problem.