The Truth About Deep Tissue: What Every Client Should Know to Maximize Your Massage.

By Kisiah Cole

Founder, Calming Souls Massage

Imagine this: you’ve booked a deep tissue massage with a new therapist. You let them know you’re having shoulder issues—you can feel the knots yourself. They assure you they’ll take care of it. You’re hopeful, maybe even a little excited, as you lie down and start to relax.

The session begins. They work through your arms, legs, and back. The pressure is decent—not too intense. But then they reach your shoulder, the area causing you the most discomfort. You feel the therapist digging in. It hurts—but you tell yourself it’s deep tissue, so that must be normal, right?

You grit your teeth and endure it.

You finish the session feeling a little sore, but hopeful. The next day, you’re very sore. By day two, the pain has intensified. And by day three or four, you’re dealing with full-blown discomfort. It takes a week to recover—and yet, the knot you originally came in for is still there.

Sound familiar?

Today, I want to share three powerful ways you can improve your experience and results from a deep tissue massage. Whether you’re a regular or only get massages once a year, these tips can make a world of difference.

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1. Ask Questions—Stay Informed

It’s easy to assume your massage therapist knows exactly what they’re doing—and they should. But not every therapist is the same. Everyone has different training, specialties, and experience.

Ask questions during your session.

If you’re curious about a technique, ask:

• What are you doing?

• Why are you doing it?

• How will this help me?

A qualified professional should be able to explain their methods and the expected outcome. If they can’t—or don’t—consider that a red flag. Don’t let someone “just do things” to your body. You deserve to understand what’s happening and why.

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2. Discomfort Is Okay. Pain Is Not.

Let’s get one thing straight: deep tissue massage is about technique, not pressure.

You can have a deep tissue massage without intense pressure. Sometimes deeper pressure is appropriate, but it should always be adjusted to your needs and comfort level.

Too often, therapists apply constant, heavy pressure on a knot without addressing the surrounding tissue. Imagine pushing hard into a knot wedged between soft tissue and bone—it might feel like something’s happening, but often it causes more harm than good.

Manipulating and softening the surrounding muscles is far more effective. This allows the knot to release more naturally and reduces your chances of bruising or pain after the session.

Speak up.

If the pressure is too much, tell your therapist to ease up or move on. You should never feel like you’re being hurt. Bruising and injuries from excessive pressure are not uncommon—and they’re completely avoidable.

“No pain, no gain” does not apply here. A little discomfort is normal. Sharp, shooting, or lingering pain is not.

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3. Do Your Research—Verify Your Therapist

Before you book your next session, look up your massage therapist.

• Can you find their license?

• How long have they been practicing?

• Are there any complaints or lapses in their credentials?

A professional therapist should have their license number listed on their website, social media, or readily available upon request. You can also search for them on your state’s medical or massage therapy board.

Don’t feel awkward about checking—your body is worth protecting. You wouldn’t go to a doctor without doing your homework, right? The same goes for massage.

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Let’s Recap:

The next time you’re on the massage table:

1. Ask your therapist questions—stay informed and engaged.

2. Speak up if something hurts—pain is not progress.

3. Verify your therapist’s credentials—you deserve a licensed, experienced professional.

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If you found these tips helpful and want to dive deeper into wellness, I’d love to connect with you.

You can find me on Instagram: @CalmingSoulsMassagetherapy

Call or text: 513-796-7198

Visit the website: www.calmingsoulsmassage.com

While you’re there, check out our Wellness Community—a space where members get access to exclusive wellness content, expert interviews, weekly insights, and more tools to help you feel your best, move your best, and live your best.

You have every right to advocate for your body. Never feel ashamed to speak up or ask questions. Your wellness is worth it.

Until next time,

Be well.