Center for Massage & Natural Health - Asheville, NC

A deep tissue massage uses slow, deliberate, and deeper pressure to reach the inner layers of muscle and connective tissue (fascia). It targets chronic muscle tension, adhesions (knots), and scar tissue that can cause pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion. Therapists often use their hands, forearms, or elbows to apply this focused pressure, which helps to break up adhesions, improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote healing from injuries or overuse. What it is and how it works Targets deeper layers: Unlike gentler Swedish massages, deep tissue massage focuses on the deeper structures of muscles and the surrounding connective tissue known as fascia. Breaks up adhesions: It works to break down muscle "knots" or rigid bands of tissue called adhesions, which can block circulation, cause pain, and restrict movement. Slower, firmer strokes: Therapists apply firm, sustained pressure and slow strokes to reach these deeper tissues and release tightness. Uses to...

For massage therapists, good body mechanics involve using proper posture, stances like the horse stance or archer's stance, and weight shifts from the legs to apply pressure efficiently and safely, which helps prevent injury to hands, wrists, and the back. Key techniques include aligning joints (stacking joints), maintaining a straight spine and neutral head position, and using larger muscle groups or tools like forearms and elbows instead of thumb or finger pressure. It's also essential to keep the massage table at an appropriate height to prevent overreaching or leaning, and to move the entire body, not just the arms, to deliver pressure. Core Principles Use Your Legs and Core: . The legs are powerful, so use them to generate pressure and support your movements. Maintain a Neutral Spine: . Keep your back straight and engage your core to support your posture and reduce strain. Align Joints: . Keep joints in a "closed pack" or straight, neutral position during move...