5 Signs You Need a Deep Tissue Massage

At Remedial Massage Preston, we often get asked:

"How do I know if I actually need a deep tissue massage?"

The truth is, while a relaxing massage can do wonders for general stress, a deep tissue massage is specifically designed to target deeper muscle layers, release chronic tension and restore movement when things have tightened up too much.

Here are five clear signs it might be time to book a deep tissue session.

1. You Have Constant Muscle Tightness That Doesn't Go Away

If you feel like you're carrying tight knots in your shoulders, back, or legs all the time — even after stretching or resting — that's a major red flag.

Deep tissue massage works by breaking up adhesions (knots and scar tissue) that simple stretching often can't fix (1).

We focus on the deeper layers of muscle, fascia, and connective tissue to release long-held tension and improve circulation.

👉 If this sounds like you, learn more about our Deep Tissue Massage services.

2. You’re Recovering From an Injury

Whether it's a sports injury, overuse injury, or minor tear, deep tissue massage can play a critical role in speeding up recovery.

By increasing blood flow to the injured area and breaking down excess scar tissue, deep tissue therapy helps the healing process and can reduce stiffness long-term (2).

We often work alongside Specific Physiotherapy Preston physiotherapists and exercise programs to co-manage injury recovery for better outcomes.

3. You Have Postural Problems or Work at a Desk All Day

Sitting at a desk or standing for long hours can create postural imbalances - think rounded shoulders, tight hips, stiff neck.

Over time, your muscles start to compensate, which can lead to pain and even injury. A deep tissue massage targets the specific muscles causing poor posture, loosens tightness, and restores alignment.

This is why so many office workers book in for remedial massage with us, and we often recommend incorporating deep tissue techniques if needed.

4. You’re Experiencing Chronic Pain or Limited Mobility

Pain that lingers for weeks or months (like chronic lower back pain, tight hips, or frozen shoulder) often means the problem isn't superficial (3).

Deep tissue massage goes beyond relaxation - it’s an active treatment technique to relieve:

• Muscle adhesions

• Trigger points

• Deep fascia tension

By addressing the root cause instead of just surface tension, you’ll usually notice improved mobility, reduced pain, and even better posture after a few sessions.

If you’re struggling with chronic musculoskeletal pain, you might also benefit from a professional physiotherapy assessment alongside massage.

5. Stress Is Manifesting in Physical Pain

Long-term stress can cause more than just mental burnout - it can live inside your body.

You might notice:

• Headaches

• Jaw clenching

• Tight chest

• Sore neck and shoulders

Deep tissue massage doesn't just feel good - it actively reduces cortisol levels, stimulates circulation, and rebalances your nervous system (4).

You'll walk out feeling like you can breathe properly again - not just mentally but physically.

Ready to Feel Like Yourself Again?

If any of these signs sound familiar, a deep tissue massage could make a huge difference.

At Remedial Massage Preston, our highly trained therapists tailor every treatment to your body’s needs — targeting the muscles that are crying out for real relief.

Book your deep tissue massage

📅 Book your Deep Tissue Massage in Preston today or contact us if you’re not sure which massage style is right for you — we’re happy to guide you. Your body will thank you for it.

References:

1. Physio.co.uk. (n.d.). Breakdown of scar tissue through massage. Physio.co.uk. Retrieved April 19, 2025, from https://www.physio.co.uk/treatments/massage/benefits-of-massage/breakdown-of-scar-tissue.php

2. Lubczyńska, A., Garncarczyk, A., & Wcisło-Dziadecka, D. (2023). Effectiveness of various methods of manual scar therapy. Skin Research and Technology, 29(3), e13272. https://doi.org/10.1111/srt.13272

3. Cleveland Clinic. (2023, November 6). Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis). https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/frozen-shoulder-adhesive-capsulitis

4. Pietrangelo, A. (2017, July 26). Deep tissue massage: Benefits, what to expect, and side effects. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/deep-tissue-massage