Deep tissue massage uses firm pressure and slow strokes to reach deeper layers of muscle and fascia (the connective tissue surrounding muscles). Deep tissue massage is a particularly effective massage for people with muscular pain. It's used for chronic aches and pain and contracted areas such as a stiff neck and upper back, sore shoulders, low back pain and leg muscle tightness.

Deep tissue massage helps to refresh and relax muscles, increasing the blood flow and therefore the oxygen flow around the body. It helps to get rid of toxins in very sore and strained muscles, which aid the healing process.  Deep tissue massage is often used to treat people who are recovering from accidents, and for sports injuries, as it increases blood circulation in muscles that are underused, relieves chronic muscle tension throughout the body, and can also break down scar tissue and "knots" deep in the muscles.

Massage is good for the mind as well as the body boosting mood and helping with relaxation.  There is usually some stiffness or tenderness after a deep tissue massage, however, this shouldn’t last more than a day or two. Stretching and putting ice-pack on any painful areas can help to reduce this. Drinking water also helps with muscle rehydration and to flush out the toxins that are released during the massage. It’s sensible to avoid strenuous activity immediately after a massage.