Soft Tissue Massage
What is soft tissue massage?
Soft tissue massage uses hands-on techniques to ease tight muscles and areas of tenderness. Pressure is adjusted to suit the area being treated and your comfort.
Soft tissue therapy can help with tension caused by prolonged sitting, repetitive movement, physical work, or exercise. It works with the muscles and surrounding tissues to reduce stiffness and improve movement.
Depending on your needs, soft tissue treatment may be combined with joint manipulation, stretching, dry needling, or exercise rehabilitation to support your recovery.
What are the benefits?
Reduces tension: Helps relax tight and overworked muscles.
Eases soreness: Relieves discomfort in sensitive soft tissues.
Improves mobility: Helps restricted areas move more comfortably.
Supports circulation: Encourages healthy blood flow through treated tissues.
Aids recovery: Supports muscles following activity or physical strain.
Tailored pressure: Treatment is adjusted to your comfort and needs.
Soft Tissue Massage FAQ
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Soft tissue massage can be applied to many areas where muscles and surrounding tissues feel tight or uncomfortable. Common areas include the neck, shoulders, back, hips and legs. Treatment is directed by your symptoms and what your practitioner finds during assessment.
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The sensation depends on the technique and the sensitivity of the area being treated. You may notice firm pressure, stretching or rhythmic movements through the muscles. Your practitioner can adjust the pressure throughout the session to keep treatment comfortable.
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Soft tissue therapy may help when muscles feel tight, fatigued or restricted following exercise and physical activity. By working directly with the affected tissues, treatment can help reduce tension and support more comfortable movement as you recover.
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Some temporary tenderness can occur after soft tissue treatment, particularly when working on areas that were already tight or sensitive. This generally settles as the tissues recover. Your practitioner can also modify the treatment intensity based on how your body responds.
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Not necessarily. Soft tissue massage may also be used when stiffness or muscular tension is affecting how freely you move, even without significant pain. Your practitioner will assess the area and determine whether the technique is appropriate for what you’re experiencing.
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Soft tissue massage in an osteopathic setting has a therapeutic focus. Rather than following a general full-body massage routine, your practitioner selects techniques according to your symptoms, areas of restriction and treatment goals.
