06/21/2026
What is a deep tissue massage?
You may have heard it. “You need a deep tissue massage.” Or “I was so sore after my deep tissue massage.” What does that mean, exactly? What techniques constitute deep tissue? Is it just pressing hard everywhere? Is it using elbows or tools? Does it have to hurt? Why does it cost more?
Therapeutic massage is another term for Swedish massage, which uses several general techniques: gliding, kneading, pressure, drumming, and shaking. In my practice, I use gliding to assess the muscles underneath my hands. Once I know how tight they are, I can use kneading and pinpoint the pressure to the areas that need it the most. I might use drumming or chopping to loosen an area up, and I almost always end each session with a gentle shaking/rocking to help the body reset to a new, relaxed normal.
Deep tissue massage happens in that middle part of the massage. If someone has chronic tightness, the deeper muscles may also be involved. For example, the top muscles on your back are the trapezius. Upper, middle and lower trapezius form a kite shaped layer that covers the back. It is easy to knead those muscles as they are on the surface. Underneath you will find the rhomboids and rotator cuff muscles, and even deeper lie the latissimus and spinal muscles. Those are harder to reach and massage therapists usually use deeper pressure using thumbs, elbows or tools to treat them.
That deeper pressure can sometimes cause soreness, but so can the release of any lactic acid that had been trapped in the tight muscles. It can cause minor discomfort, but shouldn’t cause actual pain. I usually tell my clients that on a scale from 1-10 where 1 is no pain and 10 makes you want to jump off the table, I’m aiming for at most a 6. Pain raises your blood pressure and makes you tense other muscles, and no one wants that.
Why does it cost more? Most facilities charge more for advanced techniques and training, or for add-ons like aromatherapy. At Still Waters, except for advanced techniques needing extra certification, like lymphatic drainage or craniosacral, we simply charge for our time. We will use whatever technique will best treat your issues.
Reach out in email, text or phone to ask questions or book your next session.
Still WatersTherapeutic Massage Still Waters Therapeutic Massage provides a variety of massage experiences with different prices based on the type of massage and length of the appointment. To learn about the available offerings and prices, view the pages for Massages or Prices. To submit a form to c...
