Deep Tissue Massage in Edmonton
Release the Tension. Recover Faster. Move Freely Again.
Your muscles are talking and not in a good way.
Maybe it’s from sitting at a desk all day. Maybe it’s that old injury that never fully healed. Or maybe it’s just life piling on a little too much stress. Whatever the cause, that deep, nagging tension in your body is slowing you down.
That’s where deep tissue massage comes in.
At The Self Centre, our registered massage therapists go beyond surface-level relaxation. Using slow, focused pressure, we target the deeper layers of muscle and fascia to release built-up tension, break up scar tissue, and restore movement where you need it most.
This isn’t just about “feeling better.” It’s about function. It’s about getting to the root of the issue so you can sit, sleep, walk, work, and live with less pain and more freedom.
If your body’s asking for relief, deep tissue massage is the answer.
What Is Deep Tissue Massage?
Deep tissue massage is a therapeutic technique that focuses on the inner layers of your muscles and connective tissues. It’s not about pressure for the sake of pressure, it’s about precision.
Using slow, steady strokes and targeted pressure, our therapists work through knots, adhesions, and chronic tightness that can restrict movement or cause ongoing pain.
While Swedish massage is designed for overall relaxation, deep tissue massage is ideal for:
This isn’t just for athletes or active individuals. Anyone who sits too long, sleeps the wrong way, or feels stiff day after day can benefit.
And yes, it can feel intense at times, but it should never feel painful. At The Self Centre, we adjust the pressure based on your comfort and your body’s response, so you walk out feeling better, not bruised.
How Deep Tissue Massage Works
Deep tissue massage is all about intention. The goal is to reach the deeper layers of muscles and fascia, the connective tissue that holds everything together.
To get there, our registered massage therapists use a series of slow, focused techniques, often starting with lighter pressure to warm up the area before gradually increasing depth.
Core techniques include:
Each stroke is deliberate. Each motion is designed to restore movement, improve circulation, and ease discomfort at the root, not just the surface.
What it’s not:
Deep tissue is not a “no pain, no gain” experience. Our therapists always work with you to ensure the pressure feels therapeutic, not overwhelming.
You’ll likely feel the benefits for days: less tightness, better posture, more flexibility, and a noticeable difference in how your body moves.
The Benefits of Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue massage isn’t just for athletes or those recovering from injuries. It’s a proven therapeutic approach for anyone dealing with chronic pain, stress, or tension that just won’t let go.
Here’s what it can help with:
1. Chronic Pain Relief
Whether it’s your neck, lower back, or shoulders, deep tissue massage targets the deeper muscle layers where chronic pain often lives. A 2014 study published in the Scientific World Journal found that deep tissue massage was more effective than therapeutic massage in reducing lower back pain over a short period.
2. Injury Recovery
Tight muscles, scar tissue, and inflammation can slow healing. Deep tissue massage increases circulation and breaks down adhesions, supporting faster recovery from strains, sprains, or sports injuries. Many physiotherapists and chiropractors recommend it as part of a broader rehab plan.
3. Posture & Mobility
Poor posture can lead to tight, overworked muscles that pull your body out of alignment. Deep tissue work helps release these tight areas, improving posture, mobility, and range of motion, especially for people who sit at desks or drive all day.
4. Stress Reduction
Yes, it’s intense—but deep tissue massage can be just as calming as Swedish massage once your body adjusts. As tension releases, so does emotional stress. Some clients even say they sleep better after a session.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, massage therapy helps increase serotonin and dopamine, your body’s natural mood stabilizers.
5. Headache and Tension Relief
If you get tension headaches or migraines, your therapist can focus on the neck, shoulders, and upper back, common tension zones that contribute to head pain.
6. Better Recovery After Workouts
Deep tissue massage helps flush out lactic acid and improve circulation to sore muscles, shortening recovery time. Perfect for active individuals and weekend warriors alike.
What to Expect at Your Deep Tissue Massage Appointment
We make it simple, professional, and focused on your comfort, especially when working with deeper layers of muscle.
Here’s how your session will go:
Step 1: Quick Check-In
When you arrive at The Self Centre, you’ll fill out a short intake form. We’ll ask about any injuries, chronic pain, or goals you have for the session.
Step 2: Personalized Consultation
Your registered massage therapist will talk with you about where you’re feeling tension, how much pressure you’re comfortable with, and what you want to get out of the treatment.
Step 3: Settle In
You’ll be guided to a quiet treatment room with a heated table, soft music, and calming lighting. We give you a few minutes to breathe and settle before the session begins.
Step 5: Aftercare & Guidance
After your massage, your therapist may suggest stretches, hydration tips, or booking follow-up sessions if you’re dealing with ongoing pain or stress.
You’ll leave feeling lighter, more mobile, and supported, like your body just took a deep breath.
Who Deep Tissue Massage Is For
Deep tissue massage isn’t just for athletes. It’s for anyone dealing with chronic pain, postural issues, or muscle tension that just won’t quit.
This treatment is ideal if you:
You don’t need to live with discomfort.
Deep tissue massage goes beyond relaxation; it actively works to release deep-seated tension and improve how your body feels and functions.
Want to know if it’s the right fit for you? Just ask your therapist. We’ll walk you through your options.
Deep Tissue Massage vs. Swedish Massage: What’s the Difference?
Not all massages are created equal. While both Swedish and deep tissue use similar strokes, they serve different purposes, and knowing the difference helps you choose the right one.
Swedish Massage
Think relaxation. Swedish massage uses long, gliding strokes with light to moderate pressure. It’s designed to reduce stress, ease general tension, and promote full-body relaxation. Great if you’re looking to unwind, improve circulation, or boost your mood.
Deep Tissue Massage
Think results. Deep tissue massage targets the inner layers of muscle and fascia. It uses slower strokes and deeper pressure to reach tight areas and break up scar tissue. This is the better choice if you’re dealing with chronic pain, specific injuries, or ongoing tightness that needs more than a gentle touch.
Still unsure?
Y Your massage therapist can help you decide during your consultation. At The Self Centre, every treatment is customized, so even a deep tissue massage can be adapted to your comfort level.
Is Deep Tissue Massage Right for You?
Deep tissue massage isn’t for everyone and that’s a good thing. It’s a focused treatment meant for people who truly need it. If that’s you, it can be a game-changer.
It’s a great choice if you:
- Sit or stand for long hours and feel it in your back, neck, or hips
- Experience frequent tension headaches, jaw tightness, or TMJ
- Are recovering from a sports injury, car accident, or overuse
- Feel like regular massage doesn’t go deep enough to release knots
Want a more proactive approach to pain management and mobility
But it may not be ideal if you:
- Prefer light pressure and pure relaxation
- Are currently healing from surgery or a serious injury
- Have certain medical conditions like osteoporosis or blood clotting disorders (always consult your doctor first)
The bottom line:
This treatment is designed to help you feel and move better, not just for the day, but for the long run. If you’re unsure, our team at The Self Centre will guide you through a consultation to determine the right approach.
Deep Tissue Massage Rates
We keep our pricing simple and transparent, no surprises, just great results.
60 Minutes – $135.00
A full-body deep tissue session or targeted work on key problem areas.
90 Minutes – $180.00
For deeper, more focused treatment or combining deep tissue with relaxation.
All rates include GST. Direct billing is available to most major insurance providers.
Book Online or call us at 780-485-1404 to find a time that fits your schedule.
Book Your Deep Tissue Massage Today
Tension doesn’t fix itself. Whether it’s chronic pain, post-injury recovery, or stiffness that just won’t go away, deep tissue massage can help you move through life with less discomfort and more control.
At The Self Centre, we make it easy to get the care your body deserves. From the moment you walk in, you’ll be welcomed, heard, and treated by experienced registered massage therapists who genuinely care about your results.
Ready to get started?
You can book online in just a few clicks or call us at 780-485-1404. Prefer to text? Reach out at 587-905-0864.
Let’s work through the pain together.
