Systemic Deep Tissue Therapy®

Best suited for any acute or chronic condition that requires deep tissue work.

SDTT® focuses on changing holding patterns in the nervous system that have been learned due to stress, posture and injury.

What is SDTT®?

Systemic Deep Tissue Therapy® is a technique designed for increasing circulation to troubled areas that begin at the lower spine and translate upward. SDTT focuses on the tender-points in the body that includes the muscle, ligament, fascia, and the underlying joint.

And though it is called a “deep tissue” therapy, SDTT gets its depth from the speed of the stroke, rather than from the pressure that is applied.

This speed is what changes the nervous system from its holding pattern that has been learned due to stress, posture, and/or injury.

A holding pattern is developed by the way we use our body regularly – good or bad. For example, think of how you are sitting right now. Is it comfortable? If you stay this way will you be sore or achey in a few hours?

If your current pattern isn’t working for you, your nervous system needs a “reset” – a stimuli that shocks the nervous system into a neutral change. SDTT is designed to accomplish this goal.


One of our favourite sayings at Knead is “healthy tissue doesn’t hurt”.

While it is common to have a bruise sensation for a few days after SDTT treatment, keep in mind that you first session will be your baseline. It will only get less painful from there.

Tenderness decreases as tissue health increases, meaning with each session you will feel less discomfort afterwards as you steadily progress to a pain-free life.

Book your appointment today, no referral required.

Do I have to choose a technique before scheduling an appointment?

Not at all. All you need to do is book an appointment with one of our Registered Massage Therapists. During your session, your RMT will create a tailored plan of various techniques designed around your specific needs.

This is my first massage – what can I expect?

Firstly, good for you! Here are some notes about getting started at Knead.

  • Please fill out your intake form online prior to your appointment time (it will be emailed to you directly).
  • You are welcome to wear relaxed clothing, or come as you are.
  • Enter the clinic a few moments early to check in with reception.
  • After you check in, your RMT will join you shortly to guide you to the treatment room.
  • Your RMT will go over your intake form with you. You will both have time to ask questions and get a clear idea of what will be taking place during your session.
  • You and your RMT will discuss what clothing may need to be removed, and how to get on the table.
  • Each treatment includes an interview/assessment, hands-on treatment, and there may be a few minutes at the end of the session to go over some homecare exercises.

If you have any other questions about your first visit at Knead, please get in touch!

Does “Deep Tissue” mean there is a lot of pressure?

Systemic Deep Tissue Therapy® is considered heavy-handed work, but the style is more about speed of the work, and not the pressure per se. And don’t forget, speed and depth can be changed any time you ask.

Can I fill out an intake form before my first appointment?

For sure! It’s not mandatory to fill out the intake form out before your first appointment, but it will save some time. If you have any questions about any of the fields on the form, just leave the area blank and we will go over it in person.

Download Intake Form PDF  

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