Remedial Massage vs Deep Tissue: Which Do You Need? | Sage
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Remedial massage vs deep tissue: which one do you need?

Wellbeing
Remedial massage starts with an assessment and works on a specific problem, such as a sore neck or a tight hip. Deep tissue is a style of pressure: slow, firm work into the deeper layers of muscle. At Sage the two overlap a lot, so the practical choice is usually whether you want to claim a health fund rebate.

What is the difference between remedial massage and deep tissue massage?

Remedial massage is defined by its purpose. Your therapist asks what is going on, assesses your posture and movement, then chooses techniques to suit that area. At Sage that can mean deep tissue work, trigger point therapy, myofascial release and assisted stretching, all in the one session. Deep tissue massage is defined by how it feels. The pressure is firm and the pace is slow, working into the tight, knotted areas that build up from desk work, training, stress or old injuries. So deep tissue is one of the tools, and remedial is the plan for using them. You can have deep tissue work inside a remedial massage, and plenty of people do.

Which one should you book at Sage?

We have two bookings that cover this, and they cost the same. Our therapists use deep tissue techniques in both, so you are not giving up firm pressure by choosing the rebate option.
Remedial (Rebates) Remedial Relax (No Rebates) Relaxation
Good for A specific sore or tight area, injury recovery or chronic pain The perfect blend of remedial focus and deep relaxation The ultimate tension release from head to toe
Pressure Whatever your body responds to best, deep tissue or lighter approach Your choice: firm, light or a combination of both Slow and flowing, using the pressure you prefer
Health fund rebate Yes, on the spot with HICAPS No Book Remedial (Rebates) if you want to claim
1 hour $135 $135 $135
1.5 hours $180 $180 $180
A senior therapist surcharge of $10/hour may apply. Choose your therapist when booking to ensure your preference. Your booking confirmation shows who you are booked with.

Is deep tissue massage supposed to hurt?

It can feel strong in tight spots, but it should never be more than you are comfortable with. Your therapist will check in on pressure as they go, and you can ask for more or less at any time. It is normal to feel a little tender for a day or so in the areas that were worked on. Drink some water afterwards and take it easy.

What about remedial massage vs relaxation massage?

These two sit further apart. A relaxation massage uses slow, flowing, rhythmic strokes at the pressure you like, and your therapist does not stop to work on problem areas. It is the one to book when you want to completely unwind and let your mind go quiet for an hour or more. If there is pain or restriction that has been bothering you and you want to treat the cause, book Remedial (Rebates). If you cannot decide, Remedial Relax (No Rebates) sits in the middle, because it combines a little of both.

Can you claim a deep tissue massage on your health fund?

At Sage, rebates apply to the Remedial (Rebates) booking only. If you want deep tissue work and a rebate, book Remedial (Rebates) and tell your therapist you like firm pressure. The same goes for other styles. A Remedial (Rebates) massage is carried out by a remedial therapist who is registered with the health funds, and it includes an assessment before and after your treatment. Within that, it can lean towards sports, relaxation or pregnancy massage, and it can include myofascial cupping or dry needling. Add what you would like in the notes/add-ons when you book. How much you get back depends on your fund and your level of extras cover, so it is worth checking with them before you come in. Most people have their health fund card on their phone these days, and a physical card works too. We process the claim through HICAPS when you pay. If you would rather pay in full and claim it yourself, we can email you the invoice.

How long should you book for?

An hour suits one or two problem areas. If you want a few areas worked on, or a full body massage, book 1.5 hours so nothing is rushed.

What else do people ask before booking?

Is remedial massage the same as deep tissue massage?

No. Remedial massage is a session planned around a particular problem, and deep tissue is a technique using firm, slow style of pressure. A remedial massage often includes deep tissue work, but it does not have to.

Do remedial and deep tissue massage cost the same at Sage?

Yes. Both are $135 for 1 hour and $180 for 1.5 hours. The difference is that Remedial (Rebates) can be claimed through your health fund and Remedial Relax (No Rebates) cannot.

Can I change the pressure during my massage?

Yes, at any point. Your therapist will ask what you prefer at the start and check in as they go. You are encouraged to speak up if you want it firmer or lighter at any time. Communication is key for your most satisfying and effective outcome.

Where can you book a remedial or deep tissue massage in North Perth?

Sage Massage & Movement is at 5 Scarborough Beach Rd, North Perth. We are open Monday to Friday 9am to 6.30pm and Saturday 8.30am to 5.30pm, and our clients have given us 5.0 from 287 Google reviews.
Book now Call (08) 9242 4435