Scan any local groups and you'll undoubtedly come across a post seeking deep tissue massages believing that is the answer to the aches and pains. Thank the upgrade (spend more money) marketing messaging from spas for the misinformation that has spread through the public like wildfire. Here's 5 common myths that you need to know regarding deep tissue massages.

1. Deeper is better. FALSE. Deeper does NOT mean better, or more effective. So often I come across those that believe the deeper bone-crushing pressure is needed to steamroll knots out of their back. Sadly, all this deep tissue work does is increases the tension by activating built in protective reflexes. Yes, it increases surrounding tension. That's why you have to continually return for more deep tissue work.

   
   

2. Deep pressure is needed for widespread pain. False. Widespread pain is caused by superficial layers of fascial restriction. Fascia is the web like layer of connective tissue that is between the skin and the muscle, it also surrounds muscles and organs. Deep pressure doesn't allow for the unraveling of the fascia because your body is too busy responding to the perceived trauma.

   
   

3. Deep tissue is just a deep Swedish massage. FALSE. So many new therapists mistake a heavy handed Swedish massage with deep tissue. Deep work requires skills of advanced techniques in myoskeletal therapies, access deep layers of musculoskeletal tissue without causing harm. Deep work is not meant to be done all over the body.

   
   

4. All tight muscles require deep work. False. The only muscles that require deep work are the deep muscles of the body. Jumping into those deep layers, however, triggers defensive contractions of surrounding muscles making the area more tense. Slow, moderate pressure while gently increasing depth allows access to those deeper musculoskeletal tissues without triggering the protective reflexes of the body.

   
   

5. Deep tissue costs more because it is more effective. FALSE. It costs more as a way for spas to upcharge clients for the therapeutic treatment they are already coming in for, along with compensating therapists for the extra wear on their body. When you go for a therapeutic session, you should expect the right modality will be chosen by the professional without needing to pay more for the therapy you booked.

   
   

   You may like deeper pressure, or even prefer deeper pressure on some areas. That is completely different. A skilled therapist will know how to soften and relax the superficial muscles before accessing the deeper layers. I have never been a fan of upcharging clients for the therapeutic modality needed to help them, though it is a common practice in the field. At Sacred Soul, when you sign up for a therapeutic massage, you get the body therapy you need without sneaky fees if you want problems areas addressed. Imagine that, getting the actual bodywork therapy you signed up for. Fact is, most clients don't need deep tissue, they just need a knowledgable therapist.

   
   

   See you on the table!