Also regarded as sports massage, deep tissue massage therapy is a method of treatment wherein pressure is applied to tendons, connective tissue, fascia and muscles under the skin. This type of therapy also affects deep down muscles. Compared to Swedish massage, for instance, deep tissue massage therapy is forceful and can be used not only for athletes but for non-athletes as well.

A therapist is said to be applying this type of massage when his or her fingertips are moving in a slow stroking fashion, which is being employed when the grain of the muscle, tendon or fascia is trailed. Slow stroking fashion is also done when pressure is applied across the grains of the fibers. The purpose of deep tissue massage is to release the tension or the built up strain in the fiber.

Among the benefits of deep tissue massage therapy are relief from pain, relaxed muscles, relief from tension and promotion of healing. Massage therapy also helps the body realign itself, eliminate toxins, help destroy scar tissues, aid in better blood circulation and increase oxygen flow. Moreover, this type of therapy also helps alleviate tension, headaches and neck pain. Trigger points can be reduced because of this therapy and since it is also regarded as a form of sports massage, deep tissue massage therapy can also help heal a sports-related injury, soft tissue damage, relieve back pain, reduce discomfort of "tennis elbow" and lessen symptoms of the so-called "golfer's elbow".

As the therapist utilizes slow yet intense strokes, the effects of the massage go deep into the fiber structure and through any superficial layers. Long, slow strokes may be done with the use of the therapist's forearms, knuckles, fingertips, fists, thumbs, hands and elbows.

Therapists use oil, lotion or a certain cream when applying massage therapy. When done correctly and effectively, the targeted areas will not incur too much pain. There may be a bit of soreness, though, but the positive results will prove to be far more important. A little bit of pain will become trivial if the end results are better, long lasting and favorable to the health in the long run.

Be warned, however, that this type of therapy can be uncomfortable at times. This would then call for the therapist to first warm the soft tissue before going deep into the fibers. Even with the continuous application of pressure, better or best results will be achieved if a comprehensive therapeutic program will be followed. Still, simple stretches and other easy exercises which you can learn from the therapist can also bring about good results.