Deep Tissue Massage Techniques: Slow Forearm and Elbow Work for the Back, Step by Step

Best for

Massage learners and curious viewers who want to see how a trained tutor builds from a gentle warm-up to slow, firmer deep tissue work on the back.

What you'll learn

• Effleurage and warm-up strokes before any deeper pressure
• Petrissage and compression on the back muscles
• How the forearm and elbow are used instead of the thumbs
• Therapist body positioning so the pressure comes from body weight
• Working the lower, middle and upper back and shoulders

Key moments

• 1:12 – Effleurage and warm-up
• 3:52 – Forearm and elbow techniques
• 7:34 – Therapist body positioning
• 14:34 – Lower and middle back work
• 17:36 – Upper back and shoulder work

Not ideal for

Anyone looking for a light, sleepy massage to fall asleep to, as this is a spoken training video about firmer techniques.

Is deep tissue massage meant to be harder?

It uses slower, firmer pressure than a relaxing Swedish massage, but the tutor works gradually, and pressure should always stay within what the person receiving it finds comfortable.

This video is for relaxation and education, not medical advice. Stop if anything feels painful, and check with a professional if you have an injury or health condition.

Before you press play

Watch the whole lesson once before trying anything, and practise slowly on a willing partner with plenty of communication. For more back work, see our deep tissue upper back massage techniques or read how Swedish, Thai and deep tissue massage compare.

Video by Bodyology Massage Courses on YouTube.