Does deep tissue massage have to hurt?
Updated: Oct 4
A lot of people book a deep tissue massage expecting to grit their teeth through it. Some have had one before that left them bruised and sore for days, and assume that is the price of it working. Others never book at all because they think it will be too much.
It does not have to hurt, and in my experience it works better when it does not.
What deep tissue massage actually is
Deep tissue massage works on the deeper layers of muscle and the fascia around them. The pressure is slower and more focused than a relaxing massage, and I often stay in one area for a while, waiting for the tissue to soften before going any further.
"Deep" describes where the work is aimed, not how hard I press. Reaching the deeper layers is mostly about patience. If I push too hard, too fast, the muscle tightens to protect itself and I end up working against it.
What it should feel like
You will feel it. Some spots may be tender, and some of the pressure can feel strong, the kind people call a "good hurt". What it should not be is sharp, or so uncomfortable that you are holding your breath or tensing somewhere else to cope.
A rough guide I use with clients: if ten is "get off me", we are aiming for around an eight. Strong enough that you know we are working on something, but still something you can breathe through and relax into. Past that, your body starts guarding and the treatment stops doing its job.
You are always in charge of the pressure. I check in during the session, but I would much rather you tell me it is too much (or not enough) than put up with it.
How you might feel afterwards
Some people feel loose and light straight away. Others feel tender for a day or two, a bit like after a workout, especially if it has been a while or we worked on an area that has been holding a lot. That usually settles on its own, and gentle movement and a good night's sleep help.
Bruising or soreness that lasts several days is not a sign the massage worked harder. It usually means the pressure was more than your body needed.
Who it suits
Deep tissue massage suits people with tightness that keeps coming back, such as a neck and shoulders that never quite let go after a day at a desk, or legs that feel heavy after a long run or a day in the garden. It also suits anyone with an old injury that still feels stiff, or who finds a lighter massage pleasant but not enough to make a difference.
You do not need to be sporty. Most of the people I see are not. If a niggle has been building for a few weeks, it is worth dealing with sooner rather than later, and I have written about why in small aches are worth paying attention to.
When to check with your GP first
Deep tissue massage is not always suitable. If you have a recent injury, swelling, numbness, pain you cannot explain, inflammation, a skin infection, or a condition such as a clotting disorder, speak to your GP before booking. If something comes up during a session that needs someone else to look at it, I will tell you. I have written more about that in when massage alone is not enough.
Deep tissue massage in Sissinghurst
I work from my home clinic in Sissinghurst, just outside Cranbrook, and see clients from Goudhurst, Tenterden and the villages around the Weald. Deep tissue work is part of most of my treatments, alongside sports massage and myofascial release, and dry needling or cupping if you want them. You can read more on my massage treatment page.
If you are not sure deep tissue massage is right for you, get in touch and we can talk it through. If you are ready, book your massage with me.
