What exactly is a deep tissue massage compared to other types of massage therapy, and what benefits does it offer? Massage Therapist Brooke Phillips, LMT, CT answers these questions and more! 

People from all walks of life turn to massage for a variety of reasons. From stress relief and chronic pain to improved immunity and lymphatic drainage, massage provides numerous benefits to an individual’s overall health and wellbeing. And another great benefit? Getting a massage feels good! 

If you’ve had or considered getting a massage, then you’re likely familiar with the deep tissue massage. In this FAQ, we turn to Brooke Phillips, LMT, CT, for her input on what a deep tissue massage is and how it’s administered. She also shares about other types of massages and their benefits. 

Deep Tissue Massage: Q&A with Brooke Phillips

Q: How did you get into this line of work/offering massage therapy?

Brooke: I got into massage therapy out of a passion for helping others and a fascination with human anatomy. After working at the hospital as a CNA, I decided that the hospital setting wasn’t for me and wanted a more hands-on approach. 

After seeing how beneficial massage was for my own parents, I decided to pursue formal training. I enrolled in a reputable school (LBI), where I learned all the body systems and various massage techniques and gained hands-on experience. 

The journey deepened my understanding of anatomy and the therapeutic and healing benefits of touch – I love helping people feel better. When someone walks in with a specific issue that I know I can help, it feels great to see them walk out with a smile and in less pain.

Working at Roman’s for over two years has only deepened my love of healing in a holistic approach. Being able to offer more ways to treat pain has been extremely beneficial in my clients’ healing journey. 

Q: What are the key benefits of massage?

Brooke: Pain relief, improved recovery, and mental and emotional support are key benefits of massage. Here’s a breakdown:

• Pain relief: Massage can help with chronic pain, such as headaches, neck pain, arthritis pain, sciatica, and lower back pain.
• Improved recovery: Massage can help you recover faster from workouts and injuries by improving blood flow and circulation, breaking up scar tissue, and improving overall sports recovery. 
• Mental and Emotional Benefits: Reduces stress hormones, improves mood and wellbeing, reduces anxiety and depression, enhances focus and concentration, and improves sleep.

Q: What do you like about deep tissue massage? How is it different from other types of massages?

Brooke: I prefer deep tissue massage over Swedish massage because it allows me to target and address deeper muscle tension and chronic pain issues, providing more focused relief for clients with specific pain points, particularly related to injuries or repetitive strain. 

Swedish massage is primarily focused on relaxation and general stress relief with lighter pressure across the body. Deep tissue massage uses many of the same stroking and kneading movements as Swedish massage, but there’s far more pressure. This pressure can sometimes be painful. In order to reach the deep muscle tissue, a therapist will massage layer by layer of muscle, applying more and more pressure and employing special techniques with the fingers, fists, and maybe even elbows to reach and stretch that deep tissue. 

It’s important to be open with your massage therapist about the level of pressure or discomfort you can endure. This may be different for certain areas of the body and throughout the massage. Feel free to communicate with your massage therapist before and during the massage.

Q: What other types of massage treatments do you offer?

Brooke: We offer massage lengths ranging from 15 to 90 minutes long. All massages are customized and tailored to each person’s specific needs. I use a range of techniques like neuromuscular massage, trigger point, myofascial release, Effleurage, friction, and many more. 

Here is a list of massage options at Roman’s Wellness Center:

• Deep Tissue. Our most common massage
• CBD Massage.
• Focus Massage. A focused 15 to 30-minute massage
• Swedish Massage.
• Prenatal Massage. A prenatal side-lying massage is available. We also have tables that can be elevated while you’re lying face up or a massage bolster so you can lay face down with a spot for your belly. The choice is up to you!
• Cupping massage.
• Thera-Cupping massage. A percussion massage device + cupping is used. 
• Hair and Scalp Oil Massage. This treatment provides deep relaxation, eases headaches, releases tension, and calms and soothes the scalp. A healthy scalp is essential for vibrant and luxurious hair. It provides nourishment to the hair follicles, promoting growth and hair strength.

Q: How frequently do you recommend individuals get massages?

Brooke: This answer varies greatly depending on the session and person. 

Typically, for most people, getting a massage once a month is a good general guideline to maintain relaxation and prevent muscle tension build-up. However, if you’re experiencing chronic pain or are an athlete, you may benefit from more frequent sessions, like weekly or bi-weekly sessions. Your activity, stress level, health concerns, and lifestyle are factors that affect frequency as well.

Q: What else do you believe people should know about deep tissues and other types of massages?

Brooke: What every person should know about massage: The massage is about you. If you don’t like something the massage therapist is doing, tell them. If you feel uncomfortable, tell the massage therapist. We want you to leave happy, and we can’t support you if you don’t let us know you need something different. 

Are you interested in a deep tissue massage in Morgantown, WV, or surrounding areas? Contact us today to learn more and schedule!