Therapy & Consultations
Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue massage works into the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue – addressing chronic tightness, muscular knots, and the kind of restriction that lighter techniques don’t reach. It uses a slower pace and sustained pressure to release tension at its source, restore movement, and give the body room to recover properly.
At Sum of Us, massages are delivered by therapists with physiotherapy backgrounds, meaning the work is informed by a clinical understanding of how tissue responds to load, stress, and treatment.
Who It's For
Deep tissue massage suits a wide range of presentations:
- Chronic muscle tension – particularly through the neck, shoulders, upper back, and lower back
- People with physically demanding jobs or training loads – where tissue accumulates fatigue and restriction over time
- Post-exercise recovery – when muscles need more than a lighter touch to fully release
- Postural issues – where prolonged sitting, standing, or repetitive movement has created layers of tightness
- Anyone who has tried lighter forms of massage and found it insufficient – deep tissue is the appropriate next step for more entrenched presentations
What to Expect
Your session begins with a brief conversation about where you’re holding tension, any relevant history, and what you’re hoping to address. From there, your therapist will work methodically through the affected areas using firm, sustained pressure – pausing where needed and adjusting to your feedback throughout.
Deep tissue work can produce some tenderness during and after the session, particularly in areas of significant restriction. This is normal and typically resolves within a day or two, after which most people notice a marked improvement in how freely they move.
Sessions run 60 or 90 minutes. Longer sessions allow more thorough coverage – particularly useful if you’re carrying tension across multiple areas.
Meet the Team
Brigid Jellis
Director and Physiotherapist
Chris Jellis
Director and Physiotherapist
Darcy Hall
Physiotherapist
Deana Gheri
Loft Manager and Physiotherapist
Emily Ishak
Physiotherapist
Imogen Sist
Physiotherapist
Marney Jury
Director and Physiotherapist
Tiegan Sankey
Physiotherapist
Outcomes
- Reduced chronic muscle tension and tightness
- Improved range of motion and flexibility
- Relief from postural aches and associated pain
- Better recovery between training sessions, or physically demanding work
- A body that moves with less effort and more ease
What Our Deep Tissue Massage Clients Are Saying
Great massage from Sophie, very warm and welcoming
Nancy A - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Common Questions
Is deep tissue massage painful?
Firm pressure can produce some discomfort, particularly in areas of significant tension - but it should never be sharp or unbearable. Your masseuse will check in throughout and adjust accordingly. Some tenderness in the day or two after a session is normal and a sign the tissue is responding.
How is deep tissue different from remedial massage?
Both involve therapeutic, targeted work - but deep tissue focuses specifically on sustained pressure into the deeper muscle layers. Remedial massage typically involves a broader assessment and may draw on a wider range of techniques. If you're unsure which is more appropriate for your situation, just ask when you book and we'll help you decide.
Will my private health insurance cover it?
Deep tissue massage is typically claimable under remedial massage through most extras policies, when performed by a registered therapist. Check your specific entitlements with your fund beforehand, and give us a call to confirm if you're unsure.
What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing you can easily change out of. You'll be appropriately draped throughout your session. Nothing else needed.