Deep tissue massage involves specialized techniques and intense therapeutic pressure applied to the tissue to reach deeper muscle groups. Working deeper, beyond the superficial nature of Swedish massage, taut muscle fibers that may be involuntarily contracted can be targeted and the result is the reduction of knots, or adhesions, and loosening any scar tissue along the muscle fibers and surrounding connective tissue. Deep tissue massage is often directed towards treating a specific condition or health concern, such as sciatica, tennis elbow, and chronic back, shoulder or neck pain, among others​.

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The pressure applied during deep tissue can create discomfort for some people, therefore pain tolerance and response of the client is always monitored. The primary goal is to smooth out bands of tense, rigid tissue under the skin, which can limit mobility, cause pain, and induce inflammation. Deep tissue is able to remedy chronic back pain by loosening muscles, relieving nerve compression, and ensuring proper circulation in those areas of the back to prevent referred pain in other areas. Benefits also include the reduction of anxiety, increased mobility, and improvement of athletic recovery and performance, among others.

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