Deep tissue massage focuses on specific body areas rather than the full body. Its goals are to decrease spasms and taut muscle, restore flexibility and range of motion, and relieve pain caused by toxicity, trigger points (those tender knots in a muscle), and other muscle/connective tissue dysfunction. In addition, Deep Tissue can reduce the development of adhesions and excessive scarring following surgery or trauma.

While all massage deals with the muscles of the body, deep tissue massage directly targets individual muscle fibers. For a variety of reasons, including trauma and aging, muscle fibers lose their smooth functioning. Deep tissue massage unsticks the fibers and releases deep patterns of tension. The result is muscles that are relaxed, soothed and relieved of toxins. This can help them function at full capacity.