Soft Tissue Therapy FAQ

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In short, no. Soft tissue therapy is a treatment for people suffering with persistent chronic pain and/or  musculoskeletal injuries which may, or may not, be sport related. The treatment includes advanced soft tissue techniques of which deep tissue massage is just one element. 

Physiotherapy is a regulated healthcare profession requiring completion of an approved degree course and qualifying the therapist to treat and rehabilitate a broader range of acute and complex medical conditions and injuries as well as more minor musculoskeletal injuries. In addition to manual therapy, physiotherapists may use a variety of additional treatment modalities such as electrotherapy, accupuncture/dry needling and ultrasound. Most physiotherapists focus on the prescription of exercises to help you self-manage your problem. 

Soft tissue therapy is a relatively new therapy and, therefore, not currently a regulated primary healthcare profession. However, to qualify as a soft tissue therapist does require completion of a foundation degree level professional qualification in the form of an accredited Level 5 BTEC course. It's a qualification that encompasses sports therapy but the treatment is not just for people who play sport. 

Soft tissue therapy is all about the power of touch. I know from experience that if you're in pain it feels good to receive a massage treatment in a caring and supportive environment. In addition to deep tissue massage, soft tissue therapists use many of the same manual techniques used by physiotherapists and osteopaths and, like physiotherapists, soft tissue therapists can also provide clients with appropriate injury rehabilitation exercises and lifestyle advice.  

However, soft tissue therapists are not qualified to diagnose injuries or medical conditions, or to treat acute injuries and conditions. I will refer you to a GP, physiotherapist, chiropractor or other healthcare professional if I feel your issue is beyond my scope of practice. Equally, your GP or physiotherapist may recommend that you receive soft tissue therapy.

Soft tissue therapy is an effective treatment for a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions and chronic pain. Examples of conditions that respond well to soft tissue therapy include: 

• plantar fasciitis
• achilles tendinopathy
• muscle tears and strains
• ankle and knee sprains
• runner's knee
• hip bursitis
• repetitive strain injuries
• carpal tunnel syndrome
• tennis elbow and golfer's elbow
• ITB syndrome
• lower back pain
• sciatica
• frozen shoulder
• rotator cuff tears and tendinopathies
• whiplash. 

Soft tissue therapy can also help alleviate muscle tension and chronic pain associated with conditions such as:

• osteoarthritis
• fibromyalgia
• MS and
• Parkinson's Disease.

That will depend on a number of different factors including the degree of pain you are in, how long it has been going on for, what else is going on in your life, and how motivated you are to engage with strength and conditioning exercises at home, as well as your age and general health and fitness. 

I like to refer to my relationship with clients as teamwork. You know your body better than anyone else and so it is for you to decide whether and when you wish to receive further treatments. Most people find that even just one treatment is beneficial for alleviating pain and allowing a greater range of movement, however, I have many clients who enjoy the benefits of coming for more regular monthly treatments to keep on top of things. In all cases, my objective is to provide you with the knowledge and confidence to take control of your own rehabilitation. 

I will take a few moments to clarify any questions that arise from your completed Client History form, discuss my proposed treatment plan and give you opportunity to ask any questions before agreeing with you the proposed treatment plan. You will receive approximately 40 mins of hands-on treatment time at your first appointment.

Some people think that any kind of massage therapy is a waste of time unless it really hurts - the 'no pain, no gain' mentality. But painful massage therapy treatments are likely to do more harm than good, causing bruising and further muscle tension. 

Whilst soft tissue therapy does use deep tissue work, it is essentially a gentle treatment and you shouldn't ever feel uncomfortable. I will always work within your tolerance levels and use techniques that are appropriate to your level of sensitivity. You may feel a bit achy for the first 24-48 hours after your treatment but this is normal; soft tissue therapy gives your muscles a good workout -  but without any effort on your part!