Deep tissue massage techniques are used to break up scar tissue and physically break down muscle "knots" or adhesions (bands of painful, rigid tissue) that can disrupt circulation and cause pain, limited range of motion, and inflammation.

While some of the strokes may feel the same as those used in Swedish massage therapy, deep tissue massage isn't a stronger version of a Swedish massage.

 
At the beginning of a deep tissue massage, lighter pressure is generally applied to warm up and prepare the muscles. Specific techniques are then applied.

Deep tissue massage usually focuses on a specific problem, such as chronic muscle pain, injury rehabilitation, and the following conditions:

* low back pain
* limited mobility
* recovery from injuries (e.g. whiplash, falls)
* repetitive strain injury, such as carpal tunnel syndrome
* postural problems
* muscle tension in the hamstrings, glutes, IT band, legs, quadriceps, rhomboids, upper back
* osteoarthritis pain
* sciatica 
* piriformis syndrome
* tennis elbow
* fibromyalgia
* upper back or neck pain