The ubiquitous deep tissue massage may not mean what you think it means.

Go to virtually any spa and an aggressive “deep tissue” massage is offered as an alternative to a relaxing “Swedish” massage. Over decades of marketing, deep tissue has become synonymous with deep pressure in the eyes of the public. However, true deep tissue massage has nothing to do with the pressure the therapist uses to deliver it.

Deep tissue actually refers to a massage that addresses more than just the surface layer of tissue.  True, one may use firm pressure or aggressive techniques to achieve this if the client and session goal warrants it. Conversely, one may also use gentle, slow, and light pressure techniques to access deeper layers of muscle and fascia.

Just as the term deep tissue does not prescribe a particular pressure, it also does not comprise a specific set of techniques. A therapist may use many techniques and styles of massage to access the deeper tissues of the body– including Swedish.

So, why would someone use deep tissue massage?

Team members at Nimbus typically uses some form of deep tissue massage for most sessions involving relieving pain, easing muscular tension, and improving ease of movement. Sometimes a surface muscle or fascia is the only reason for the problem, but very often deeper layers are involved. The therapists can target different muscles or tissues at different levels to pinpoint and relieve the problem.

Nimbus therapists have a variety of different techniques in their toolboxes. They will, therefore, adjust their style and pressure to suit the needs and preferences of each client. They can accommodate people who love firm pressure as well as people who need “gentle deep tissue.”

Some massage styles that may be used to access deep tissues include Trigger Point Therapy, Neuromuscular Therapy, Thai Massage, Myofascial Release, Sports Massage, Orthopedic Massage… the list goes on and on. A few styles that do not typically address deeper tissues include Lymphatic Massage, Energy Work, and Pre/Post Surgical Massage.