Deep Tissue Massage

Slower and firmer than oil massage, working into the deeper muscle layers on the areas you point out. Usually the neck, shoulders, lower back or calves.

It is the treatment for tension that has been there for months rather than days. Desk work produces a particular version of it — a stiff neck, a band across the upper back, a lower back that aches by the afternoon — and sustained pressure on those areas does what a relaxing massage cannot.

It is also our firmest table treatment, and it should be uncomfortable in a way you can breathe through, never in a way you have to brace against.

Against traditional Thai massage the difference is direction. Thai works the whole body along its pressure lines and opens it out with stretches; this goes down into two or three places and stays there. Ask for deep tissue when you can point at the problem, and for traditional Thai when you cannot. The areas most often asked for are the neck and the base of the skull, the band across the upper back, the lower back, and the calves.

Who is this massage suitable for?

Persistent knots, sports recovery, or one area that will not release.
Chronic neck and back stiffness from long hours at a desk.

When should I avoid this treatment?

Not appropriate over an acute injury, an inflamed joint, or where you are taking blood-thinning medication without advice. Some soreness the next day is normal.

What does the therapist bring?

A massage table, fresh linen, towels and oil or balm.

How should I prepare?

Be ready to say clearly what hurts and how firm you want the pressure. Drink water afterwards.

Professional conduct

Professional draping throughout. Tell your therapist at any point if the pressure is too much; they will adjust.