Deep Tissue Massage
Got a knot that's been there for months? Carrying tension in your shoulders or lower back that just won't shift?
Deep tissue massage gets into the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue to tackle the kind of tightness that sits too far down for a lighter touch to reach.
Using slow, sustained pressure and focused techniques, our therapists work to release chronic tension, ease persistent pain, and help the body move more freely. It's particularly effective for postural strain, aches from repetitive activity, and areas that have been holding tension for a long time. If you've been putting up with something that hasn't shifted on its own, this could well be the treatment that changes that.
If you're looking for something with more of a sports-recovery focus, you might also want to take a look at our Sports Massage page. We also offer Cupping Massage, which works particularly
What Can Deep Tissue Massage Help With?
Deep tissue massage can help with a wide range of muscular and soft tissue complaints, from recent strains to long-standing tension patterns that have built up over time.
- Chronic back, neck, and shoulder pain: sustained pressure into tight muscle and fascia can ease persistent aching and stiffness
- Postural strain: addresses the muscle imbalances that build up from desk work, driving, or repetitive daily movement
- Repetitive strain and overuse injuries: may help reduce pain and improve tissue function in areas affected by repeated loading
- Sports and exercise recovery: supports muscle recovery, reduces post-exercise soreness, and can help restore range of motion
- Limited mobility and stiffness: working into the deeper muscle layers may improve flexibility and ease of movement
- Tension headaches: tightness in the neck, upper back, and shoulders often contributes to headaches; releasing it can reduce frequency
- Scar tissue and adhesions: slow, specific work into affected areas may help improve tissue pliability over time
- Stress held in the body: many people carry mental and emotional stress as physical tension; deep tissue work can offer real, lasting relief
Meet Our Therapists
Our massage therapists hold qualifications from recognised professional bodies, including the Federation of Holistic Therapists, the Sports Massage Association, and the Institute of Sport and Remedial Massage. Their training covers anatomy, physiology, contraindications, and a range of deep tissue techniques. They are required to maintain professional insurance and keep their skills current through continuing professional development.
Nigel Gilderson
Massage Therapist
Dahnen Murdanaigum
Massage Therapist
Rahmah Patel
Massage Therapist
Gosia Tiwan
Massage Therapist
Ready to book your appointment?
We offer a range of treatments to help you feel your best. Book online,
call us or visit our centre to schedule your appointment.
What to Expect at Your First Appointment
- You'll usually be asked to undress to your underwear so your therapist can access the muscles directly; towels are used throughout to keep you covered and comfortable. If you'd prefer to keep clothing on, just let your therapist know and they'll work with you to find an approach that suits
- Your appointment starts with a short conversation about your health history and what's brought you in, including any particular areas of pain or concern
- Your therapist uses slow, firm pressure to work into the deeper muscle layers, and will check in with you regularly about how the pressure feels; always say if you'd like more or less
- Deep tissue work can feel quite intense in tight areas, and some tenderness during treatment is completely normal; it shouldn't feel sharp or unbearable
- You may notice a little soreness in the treated areas for a day or two afterwards, particularly after a first session; this settles and is usually followed by a sense of ease and improved mobility
Massage Pricing
Massage 30 Minutes
(All standard types)
£50
Osteopathy Sports Massage
60 Minutes
£125
Massage 60 Minutes
(All standard types)
£90
Lymphatic Drainage Massage
45 Minutes
£99
Massage 90 Minutes
(All standard types)
£125
Indian Head Massage
45 Minutes
£75
Your Questions Answered
Is it supposed to hurt?
Some discomfort during deep tissue massage is normal, and often a sign that work is happening in a tight area. It shouldn't feel sharp or unbearable. Think of it as productive rather than painful. Our therapists always check in about pressure and adapt to what feels right for you. If anything doesn't feel okay, just say so.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on what you're coming in for. A single session can make a real difference for some people, while those with more longstanding tension may benefit from a short course. Your therapist will give you an honest steer after the first appointment and won't suggest more sessions than they genuinely feel are worthwhile.
How is deep tissue massage different from sports massage?
There's considerable overlap between the two, and both work into the deeper layers of muscle. Sports massage tends to have a stronger focus on athletic performance, injury prevention, and event-specific recovery, while deep tissue is more broadly aimed at chronic tension, pain, and mobility. In practice, many of our therapists draw on both approaches and will adapt to whatever your body needs.
Is deep tissue massage suitable for everyone?
It's suitable for most people, but there are some situations where it isn't appropriate, including certain skin conditions, blood clotting disorders, osteoporosis, or areas of recent injury or acute inflammation. Your therapist will go through your health history at the start of the appointment to make sure treatment is safe and right for you. If you're unsure before booking, give us a call on 020 7733 9944 and we'll be happy to help.
Should I wait until it gets worse?
We hear this all the time: "It's not that bad yet, I'll see how it goes." The truth? Muscle and joint pain doesn't usually resolve the way a cut or bruise does. The longer compensation patterns continue, the harder they can be to correct. Early treatment often means: fewer sessions overall, faster recovery, lower risk of chronic issues, better long-term mobility. Prevention is always easier than cure.
Why Choose Brixton Therapy Centre?
- 7-day appointments
- Early morning and evening availability
- Emergency appointments when possible
- Phone support 7am-9pm
- Personalised exercise plans
- Confidential, detailed reports if needed
- Online booking, fast and secure
- Caring for the Brixton community since 1999
- Concessions for those on low income (call to ask)
- Concessions for NHS staff (call to ask)
Still Not Sure?
If you're in pain and wondering whether we can help, that's exactly why we're here. You don't need to know what the problem is. You don't need a referral. You just need to take the first step. Book online today or call 020 7733 9944 to speak to us.
Cupping Massage
Suction-based therapy that lifts the muscle layers rather than pressing into them, particularly effective for chronic tension and sports recovery
Deep Tissue Massage
Firm, targeted work on deeper muscle layers, well suited to chronic tension, postural strain, and persistent aches
Indian Head Massage
A seated treatment working the scalp, neck, and shoulders, popular for tension headaches and stress
Lymphatic Drainage
A very light, rhythmic technique that supports the lymphatic system and may help with fluid retention
Pregnancy Massage
Specifically adapted to support the body's changing needs during pregnancy
Reflexology
Pressure-point work on the feet, hands, or ears that aims to support wellbeing across the whole body
Sports Massage
Focused on athletic performance and recovery, and on keeping active bodies moving well
Swedish Relaxing Massage
A gentler, flowing treatment ideal for stress relief, tension, and general relaxation