28/03/2025

Deep Tissue Massage Benefits: The Science Behind Pain Relief

Deep tissue massage treatment supporting recovery and pain relief.

Deep tissue massage is a firm-pressure massage style that works slowly into the deeper layers of the muscles. This guide explains the techniques, what a session feels like and who tends to enjoy it. We also cover how it differs from a relaxing massage, and what to expect at Art Spa in Hoi An.

Quick answer: Deep tissue massage uses slow, firm strokes with the palms, thumbs and elbows to work into tight areas such as the back, shoulders and neck. At Art Spa Hoi An the Deep Tissue Massage is 627,000 VND for 70 minutes, 797,000 VND for 100 minutes and 927,000 VND for 130 minutes, with pressure adjusted to your comfort.

★★★★★ 4.9 / 5 on Google Maps from guest reviews at both branches: Art Spa (1,757 reviews) and Art Spa 2 (365 reviews).

What Is Deep Tissue Massage?

Deep tissue massage applies slow, firm pressure to reach beneath the surface muscles. It feels stronger than a light, flowing relaxation massage, but it should never feel painful. Your therapist checks in with you and adjusts the pressure as the session goes on.

Core Techniques Used in Deep Tissue Massage

1. Stripping and Friction

Stripping uses long, slow strokes along the direction of the muscle fibers. Friction applies pressure across the fibers in small, focused movements. Therapists often use these techniques on the back, shoulders and legs, where many people feel tightness.

2. Trigger Point Pressure

Trigger point work focuses on small, tight spots, often called knots. The therapist holds steady pressure with the thumb, knuckle or elbow until the area feels softer. It is commonly used around the neck, shoulders and lower back.

3. Slow Stretching Strokes

Slow, sustained strokes along the muscles and the surrounding tissue help areas feel looser and easier to move. They are often combined with gentle stretching at the end of a session.

What to Expect at Art Spa Hoi An

A short personal consultation about the areas you want to focus on and your preferred pressure (soft, medium or strong).
Essential oil selection and a herbal foot soak to start.
Focused deep tissue massage using palms, thumbs and elbows.
A gentle head massage to finish, then herbal tea and light refreshments.

Please tell your therapist right away if the pressure is too strong or too light. You can adjust it at any time.

Who Tends to Enjoy Deep Tissue Massage?

Travelers with stiff shoulders and legs after long days of walking or a long flight.
People who sit at a desk and carry tension in the neck, shoulders and back.
Active visitors who like firm pressure after cycling, swimming or sightseeing.
Anyone who prefers a stronger massage to a light, flowing one.

If you have a medical condition, are pregnant, or have recent injuries, please talk to your doctor first and tell our team before your session. A lighter Relaxing Body Massage may suit you better.

Deep Tissue vs Relaxing Massage

	Deep Tissue Massage	Relaxing Body Massage
Pressure	Medium to strong, adjusted to you	Light to medium
Style	Slow, focused strokes on tight areas	Soft, flowing strokes
Best for	Back, shoulder and neck tightness	Full-body relaxation
Art Spa length	70, 100 or 130 min	60, 90 or 120 min

Tips for a Comfortable Session

Drink water before and after your massage.
Speak up about pressure, so the session stays comfortable.
Plan a quiet hour afterwards and avoid heavy exercise on the same day.
Book a longer session if you want your therapist to cover the whole body in detail.

Prices and Booking

At Art Spa Hoi An, the Deep Tissue Massage is 627,000 VND (70 min), 797,000 VND (100 min) and 927,000 VND (130 min). See the full spa menu for other treatments.

Book at Art Spa (37 Nguyen Phuc Tan St.) or Art Spa 2 (37/6 Le Quy Don St.), open daily 10:00–22:00. Message us on WhatsApp +84 906 488 820 to reserve your time.