Deep tissue is a broadly used term for the utilization of deep pressure during massage-usually employing a range of modalities or types of massage (relative to those practiced by the therapist) with the goal of accessing muscle groups beneath the superficial layers. This process lengthens and stretches soft tissue fibers, relieves fatigue from overuse or injury, disperses muscle adhesions (the binding of fascia with collagen, also known as 'knots'), increases joint flexibility and provides the client with a more thorough sense of relief. While the goal of deeper work is not relaxation per se, as one might imagine with Swedish or lighter touch modalities, the end results can be profoundly calming.
Muscle adhesions
When muscles are strained by overexertion or injury, the body reacts by sending collagen to the swollen muscle fibers and/or micro-tears in the tissue. This natural form of bandaging is an attempt to repair the area by adding strength. Think of it as a cast for the muscle. This can be a very good thing in the short term, especially when injuries are involved and the fibers are torn. Overtime however, these interwoven, hardened bands continue to expand, become uncomfortably 'knotty' and begin to affect the range of motion and general mobility. Using deep pressure to the affected area along with heat therapies can help dissolve the casting that was once beneficial but is now creating its own set of issues.
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