For the spot you keep pointing at
Deep Tissue Massage in Los Altos
Slower strokes and firmer pressure, worked through the deeper layers of muscle rather than across them.
Deep tissue massage uses slow strokes and firm, sustained pressure to work through the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue, usually focused on the back, neck and shoulders. At Saigon Spa in Los Altos it runs from 30 to 90 minutes, and you set the pressure with your therapist.
Length and price
- 30 minutes
Regular price $120, now $90- 60 minutes
Regular price $145, now $120- 90 minutes
Regular price $185, now $160
Struck-through figures are our regular rates.
Pay in cash and 5% comes back to you on every visit.
How the pressure works
Deep tissue is slower than Swedish, not rougher. The therapist works at a pace that lets the muscle give way, holding pressure in one place rather than gliding past it. Depth comes from time and angle far more than from force.
Pressure is a conversation, and it is yours to direct. Firm should feel like useful work; it should not have you holding your breath. Say lighter and you will get lighter, immediately, without it costing you anything in the session.
Two things you can ask for: Ashiatsu, where your therapist uses their feet, and some stretching worked into the session. Mention either when you book or at the start.
Pointing your therapist at the right thing
- Name the area before you lie down, not at minute forty.
- Say whether you want the whole hour there or the usual full-body pass with extra time on it.
- Flag anything you would rather have avoided entirely.
- Speak up about pressure the moment it stops feeling useful.
Well suited to
- Necks and shoulders that have spent the week at a desk
- One area you can point to, rather than general tension
- Guests who already know they prefer firm pressure
How you may feel afterwards
Feeling a little worked over the next day is common after firm work, in the way muscles feel the day after a hard session at the gym. It usually settles within a day or two. Water and an unhurried evening help.
If that does not sound appealing, you can book a Swedish massage instead and ask for firmer pressure within it.
Massage at Saigon Spa is relaxation and wellness, not medical care. If you are dealing with an injury, a recent surgery or persistent pain, speak to a clinician before booking.
Deep tissue and Swedish, side by side
The two services people most often weigh against each other. Either can be booked from 30 to 90 minutes.
| Aspect | Deep tissue | Swedish |
|---|---|---|
| Pressure | Firm and sustained | Light to medium |
| Pace | Slow, staying in one place | Continuous gliding strokes |
| Focus | One or two areas you name | Whole body, evenly |
| During the hour | Working, sometimes intense | Straightforwardly relaxing |
| The next day | Can feel worked, like after the gym | Usually just loose |
| From | $90 for 30 minutes | $80 for 30 minutes |
Common questions
What is deep tissue massage?
A massage that uses slow strokes and firm, sustained pressure to reach the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. It usually concentrates on a few areas you name rather than covering the whole body evenly.
Is deep tissue massage supposed to hurt?
No. Firm pressure should feel like useful work, not like something to endure. If you are tensing or holding your breath, the pressure is too much. Tell your therapist and it changes straight away.
What are the downsides of deep tissue massage?
Some guests feel a little sore the following day, similar to the day after a hard workout, and it is a more intense hour than a Swedish massage. If neither appeals, book Swedish and ask for firmer pressure within it.
Can I ask for Ashiatsu or stretching?
Yes. Ashiatsu is deep tissue work where your therapist uses their feet, and some stretching can be worked into the session. Mention either when you book or at the start of your appointment.
Deep tissue or Swedish massage?
Deep tissue if there is a specific tight area you can point to. Swedish if the goal is to relax. Both can be booked from 30 to 90 minutes, and your therapist can adjust either once you are on the table.
Ready when you are
Book a Deep Tissue Massage
Open seven days, until 8pm Monday through Saturday. Book online any time, or call us during opening hours.