5 Benefits of Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage uses slow, deliberate pressure to reach muscle layers and fascia that lighter styles miss. It is ideal for people with desk stiffness, chronic knots, or training volume that leaves muscles glued down.

Five benefits to know: 1) Relieves chronic muscle pain by breaking up adhesions that limit glide between muscle layers. 2) Restores range of motion in shoulders, hips, and spine so you move with less resistance. 3) Speeds recovery after workouts by improving circulation and flushing metabolites. 4) Lowers stress through slow, sustained strokes that activate the parasympathetic system. 5) Supports posture by releasing tight hip flexors, traps, and pecs that pull you forward.

How to get the most from a deep tissue session: - Hydrate before and after to help lymphatic drainage. - Warm up tight spots with a brief hot shower so muscles accept pressure more easily. - Use a 1 to 10 pressure scale; ask the therapist to stay at 6 to 7 for most of the session to avoid next-day soreness. - Plan light movement later (a short walk or mobility flow) to keep tissues supple.