Deep tissue massage is a therapeutic technique using slow, firm pressure and deep strokes to target inner layers of muscle and connective tissues.

It is focuses on realigning deeper muscle layers and connective tissues, targets chronic tension in muscles that lie far below the body’s surface, often causing a "good pain" or discomfort during the session.

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

Expect the therapist to use forearms, elbows, and knuckles to work on specific "knots" or adhesions. It is common to experience soreness or stiffness for 1–2 days after the treatment

Deep muscle techniques involve slow strokes, direct pressure or friction movements that go across the muscle grain.

Massage therapists will use their fingers, thumbs or occasionally even elbows to apply the needed pressure. It is especially helpful for chronically tense and contracted areas such as stiff necks, low back tightness, and sore shoulders

Unlike classic massage therapy, which is used for relaxation, deep tissue massage usually focuses on a specific problem, such as: chronic pain, limited mobility, recovery from injuries (e.g. whiplash, falls, sports injury), repetitive strain injury, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, osteoarthritis pain, fibromyalgia, and muscle spasms.