When there is chronic muscle tension or injury, there are usually adhesions (bands of painful, rigid tissue) in muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Adhesions can block circulation and cause pain, limited movement, and inflammation. Deep tissue massage works by physically breaking down these adhesions to relieve pain and restore normal movement.

To do this, the massage therapist often uses direct deep pressure or friction applied across the grain of the muscles.

There is "pain", and there is "good pain"; this is the "good pain". Realistically though, at certain points during the massage, most people find there is usually some discomfort.

Occasionally, stiffness or pain may follow after a deep tissue massage, but it should subside within a day or so.

Unlike classic massage therapy, which is used for relaxation, deep tissue massage usually focuses on a specific problem and actually treats the problem.  Deep tissue is recommended with chronic pain issues, limited mobility, recovery from injuries (e.g. whiplash, falls, sports injury) Repetitive strain injury, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, Postural problems, shoulder impingement, plantar fasciitis and and general tension.

People often notice improved range of motion immediately after a deep tissue massage although the full benefit with set in about 3-4 days post massage.

Dena and her team therapists may use fingertips, knuckles, hands, elbows, forearms, knees and feet during the deep tissue massage.  This is not speedy work, this is Deep Slow Intentional bodywork and we can spend 90 minutes resolving one specific problem. You may be asked to breathe deeply as your massage therapist works on certain tense areas. It is important to drink plenty of water after the massage to flush metabolic waste from the tissues.

Dena's pro tip: "Take an Epsom salt bath the evening after your massage.  Don't skimp on the salt!"