Deep-tissue vs. Deep-Pressure
Sometimes people misunderstand these two terms.
Deep pressure means the therapist is pushing as hard as they can creating the maximum force against the body. In other words, someone getting this type of massage will be getting a simple Swedish massage with just a lot of extra pressure.
But, a deep-tissue massage is something very different. With deep-tissue the therapist slowly sink down through the various layers of muscle to get to the true problem area while causing as the least pain possible. While deep, hard pressure may be used at times the therapist uses his knowledge of where the specific muscles are located and where they attach. He focuses on the area giving the client the most problem. This target area is relaxed using several differing techniques. Some of these techniques are trigger-point, muscle energy testing, cross fiber friction, positional release etc.
Please note a hard pressure Swedish massage may be enjoyed without correcting the underlying problem causing pin or tension. Deep- tissue therapy targets specific areas alleviating the root cause of the problem leaving you feeling much better.