Deep tissue massages are used to break up scar tissue and break down muscle adhesions (the “knots” that we feel in our muscles are muscle adhesions, which are bands of rigid and painful muscle tissue). These knots can inhibit our circulation and cause pain and inflammation.
The body consists of many layers of tissue and even layers of muscle on top of other muscles. Deep tissue massage addresses all the layers, not just the ones that are easiest to access.
Chronic aches and pains, such as those caused by rounded shoulders or a forward head from leaning over a desk, the chronic low back pain felt from being forced into a single standing or seated position all day, often see the most benefit from deep tissue massage. Deep tissue is also commonly used to treat athletic injuries or general over use pain.