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 of 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. We will use all of the “tools” we have available to give the most effective massage, which includes the use of our bare feet (Ashiatsu), Rolfing techniques, sliding cupping, and any other techniques we can use to help heal your deep muscular and tissue pains.  

It is important to drink plenty of water after the massage to flush metabolic waste from the tissues, and to follow all of our post-massage instructions. You may experience some soreness for a day or two after your visit. This is that “good pain” of relieving the tension that is living deep in your muscles and connective tissues. Dena’s pro tip: “Take an Epsom salt bath the evening after your massage. Don’t skimp on the salt!”