Deep tissue massage uses slower, firmer pressure to reach the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. Rather than working broadly across the body, it targets specific areas of persistent tightness and works into them properly.

It suits tension that's built up over time — the shoulders and neck that never quite let go after months at a desk, the lower back that's been tight since you can remember, the hips that feel permanently locked. Where lighter massage tends to feel good for a day, deep tissue work aims to change how the tissue actually moves.

Physiome is based inside Ethos Sports Centre in South Kensington. Sessions are 30 minutes, one-to-one, in a private treatment room. Our clinic regularly supports clients from Belgravia, Pimlico, Earl's Court, Notting Hill, Paddington, Marylebone, Soho, Fulham, Hammersmith, Shepherd's Bush, Mayfair, Covent Garden, and central London areas.

• Chronic neck and shoulder tension
• Upper back tightness from desk and screen work
• Persistent lower back tightness
• Tight hips and hip flexors from prolonged sitting
• Long-standing muscle knots and trigger points
• Stiffness that doesn't respond to stretching alone
• Restricted movement from tight connective tissue
• Muscular tension linked to stress
• Areas that feel permanently tight regardless of activity level

Deep tissue vs Swedish or relaxation massage
Swedish massage uses lighter, flowing strokes across the whole body and is primarily about relaxation. Deep tissue is slower, firmer and focused on specific problem areas. Both are valid — they're just aiming at different things.

Deep tissue vs sports massage
There's real overlap, and the techniques often look similar. Sports massage is oriented around training, recovery and performance, and is often timed around sessions or events. Deep tissue is oriented around chronic tension, whatever caused it. If your tightness comes from training, book sports massage. If it comes from life, book this.

Deep tissue vs physiotherapy
Massage treats muscular tension. Physiotherapy diagnoses and treats injury. If you have persistent pain, a specific injury, or symptoms involving nerves, numbness or joint problems, start with physiotherapy.

We'll ask what's been bothering you, how long it's been going on and what you do day to day — because chronic tension usually has a cause worth identifying.

Treatment uses slow, sustained pressure, myofascial release, trigger point work and stretching, applied to the areas you've prioritised.

Because sessions are 30 minutes, deep tissue work is most effective focused on one or two regions. A thorough job on your neck and shoulders will do far more than a rushed pass over everything.

Pressure is adjusted throughout. Deep doesn't mean painful — you should be able to breathe and stay relaxed. Tension against too much pressure is counterproductive, so tell us if it's too much.

Appointments are 30 minutes at Ethos Sports Centre, South Kensington, in a private treatment room. Wear or bring shorts and a vest or t-shirt. Towels are provided and you'll only be undressed to the extent needed for the area being treated.

Avoid a heavy meal beforehand and drink water afterwards. Mild tenderness for a day or two is normal after deeper work.

If your tension is long-standing, one session will help but rarely resolves it. We'll be honest about what's likely to need repeating.