“I've been suffering with shoulder aches caused by sitting at a computer for too long. After 3 sessions with Joanna the aches have gone and I feel I'm sitting/standing straighter again due to less rounding of my shoulders. Joanna does a firm deep massage which is highly effective. Strongly recommended.”
Deep Tissue Massage
For patients from Bournemouth, Christchurch, Poole and surrounding Dorset areas
Deep tissue massage uses slower, focused pressure to work with areas of muscular tension. Your therapist will discuss comfort, pressure, and goals before adapting the treatment to you.
Benefits of Deep Tissue Massage
What to expect
Consultation
We discuss your symptoms, preferences, and any relevant health information.
Tailored Massage
Focused massage techniques are adjusted throughout to suit your comfort.
Aftercare
Your therapist explains appropriate aftercare and any useful next steps.
Conditions we treat
Deep tissue massage in Bournemouth
Focused treatment for persistent muscular tension
Deep tissue massage uses slower, focused pressure than a flowing relaxation massage. Your practitioner works with areas of muscular tension and adapts the treatment around your symptoms, comfort, and goals.
We can help you decide whether deep tissue massage fits your needs and arrange a one-off session or ongoing appointments.
It may be worth discussing if you have tight or knotted muscles, post-exercise soreness, or restricted movement. If your main concern is lower back pain or neck pain, we can discuss whether massage is appropriate or whether another treatment route would be more suitable.

Suitability
Is deep tissue massage right for you?
Deep tissue massage is more focused than a general relaxation massage, but it should still be planned around your comfort. Your practitioner will ask about your symptoms, relevant health information, and what you want from treatment before starting.
Please tell the clinic if you are pregnant, taking blood-thinning medication, have a bleeding or clotting condition, osteoporosis, an open wound or skin infection, recent surgery, or a significant injury. We can discuss whether deep tissue massage is suitable or whether another treatment would be more appropriate. New, severe, or unexplained symptoms should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
Choose your treatment
Deep tissue massage or Swedish Massage?
Neither treatment is better for everyone. Deep tissue massage uses more focused pressure for persistent muscular tension, while Swedish Massage uses flowing techniques that are often chosen for relaxation and general muscular comfort. If your needs are linked to exercise or recovery, you can also explore Sports Massage. Your practitioner can help you choose the right route during your consultation.
Aftercare
After a deep tissue massage
Take it easy after treatment, drink water, and choose gentle movement rather than strenuous exercise if your body feels tender. Temporary tenderness can happen after a more focused massage. Your practitioner will explain any specific aftercare and what to do if you notice unexpected or concerning symptoms.
Visit our Bournemouth clinic
Find SoCo Therapies
We are based at 175 Holdenhurst Road, Bournemouth, BH8 8DQ. Use the map below to plan your visit, or contact the clinic if you would like help finding us.
Open in Google MapsFrequently asked questions
Deep Tissue Massage FAQs
What is a deep tissue massage?
+
Deep tissue massage uses slower, focused pressure to work with areas of muscular tension and the surrounding soft tissue. The treatment is tailored to your comfort, symptoms, and goals, with pressure agreed and adjusted throughout.
Is deep tissue massage better than Swedish massage?
+
Neither treatment is better for everyone. Deep tissue massage is more focused and may suit persistent muscular tension, while Swedish Massage uses flowing techniques that are often chosen for relaxation and general muscular comfort. Your practitioner can help you choose.
When might deep tissue massage be suitable?
+
It may be suitable when you have persistent muscular tension, tight or knotted muscles, post-exercise soreness, or restricted movement. Your practitioner will discuss your symptoms and health history before deciding whether this treatment is appropriate.
Does deep tissue massage hurt?
+
Deep tissue massage can feel more intense than a flowing massage, but pain is not the goal. Your practitioner will check your comfort, adapt the pressure, and change or stop the treatment if it does not feel right. Some short-term tenderness can occur after treatment.
What should I do after a deep tissue massage?
+
Plan to take it easy after treatment, drink water, and choose gentle movement rather than strenuous exercise if your body feels tender. Your practitioner will explain any specific aftercare and what to do if you notice unexpected or concerning symptoms.
Who should speak to the clinic before booking deep tissue massage?
+
Please tell the clinic if you are pregnant, taking blood-thinning medication, have a bleeding or clotting condition, osteoporosis, an open wound or skin infection, recent surgery, or a significant injury. We can discuss whether deep tissue massage is suitable or whether another route is more appropriate.
Client experiences
Kind words from our clients
“I’ve been going to SoCo Therapies for sports massages with Molly for over a year. She’s incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and always knows exactly how to help with aches and muscle tension. I always leave feeling so much better. Highly recommend!”
“First visit this morning and had an appointment with Lauren. Absolutely brilliant Lauren met me in reception on time and took me through to her treatment room. Very professional polite and easy to chat to. The sports massage was amazing never once did she hurt me and was always asking if everything was ok which it was so much so I have rebooked. Lauren was 10/10”
Your care team
Practitioners who offer this treatment
Choose from the practitioners currently listed for this treatment on SoCo Therapies' Jane booking pages.

James Brown
Sports Therapist + Sports Massage Therapist
BSc, MSc Sports Therapy, University of Gloucester (2018)

Joanna Hodgkinson
Sports Massage Therapist + Clinic Manager
Level 4 Sports Massage, Bournemouth University (2021)

Molly McDermott
Sports Massage + Pregnancy Massage Therapist
Sports Massage and Pregnancy Massage training, Bournemouth University

Lauren Terry
Sports Massage Therapist
Master’s degree in Osteopathy, European School of Osteopathy
Ready to book?
Start with a free 15-minute consultation - no obligation, no cost.
Free ConsultationBook Online