Massage · Dubai Hills
Deep Tissue Massage for Tight, Tired Muscles
Deep tissue massage uses slow, firm pressure to work through areas of muscular tension and help you feel more relaxed and comfortable.
At KINETIKA we offer deep tissue massage and a gentler relaxation massage inside a physiotherapy clinic. That means your massage is personalised to how your body feels on the day, and if something sounds like more than everyday tightness, a physiotherapist is on hand to advise whether an assessment would serve you better.
Katrine Gayle Ignacio
Massage Therapist
- 4 years hands-on experience
- Deep tissue, relaxation, slimming and lymphatic massage
- Inside a physiotherapy clinic
- Unit 403, Park Heights Square 1, Dubai Hills
What deep tissue massage is
Deep tissue massage focuses on the deeper layers of muscle and the connective tissue (fascia) around them. Strokes are slower than in a relaxation massage, and pressure builds gradually, often using the forearm, knuckles or thumbs to work along a muscle or hold steady on a tight spot.
It is not about pain. Firm pressure can feel intense in a stubborn area, but it should stay at a level you can breathe through. You can ask for lighter or firmer pressure at any point.
Who it tends to suit
People usually book deep tissue massage when they want to ease muscle tension that builds up from:
- Long hours at a desk or on a laptop, often felt in the neck, upper back and shoulders
- Regular training such as running, cycling, padel, lifting or classes
- Physical work, lifting children, or long days on your feet
- Stress, which many people carry as tightness through the jaw, neck and back
Many clients find it helps their muscles feel looser and more comfortable.
What to expect in a session
Your session starts with a short conversation. Your therapist will ask what you would like from the massage, which areas feel tight, how much pressure you usually enjoy, and whether anything has changed with your health. Please mention any injuries, recent surgery, medical conditions, medications or pregnancy at this point.
From there the massage is shaped around you, whether that is focused work on the upper back and neck or a full-body session with extra attention where it is needed.
It is common to feel a little tender for a day or so afterwards, similar to after a workout. If soreness is sharp, increasing or lasts more than a couple of days, let us know.
Relaxation Massage
Not every session needs to be deep. Relaxation massage uses long, flowing strokes, kneading and gentle rhythmic movements with light to moderate pressure. It is designed to help you slow down, ease general muscle tension and simply feel more at ease in your body.
Relaxation massage can be a good choice if:
- You are new to massage or prefer lighter pressure
- You feel run down or stressed and want time to switch off
- You would like a regular session to support rest and recovery rather than work on a specific area
You do not have to choose one style for good. Many people like deeper work on the shoulders or calves and a lighter approach elsewhere.
Massage within a physiotherapy clinic
KINETIKA is a DHA-licensed physiotherapy clinic, and massage sits alongside our physiotherapy, manual therapy and wellness services. Our physiotherapists also use focused deep tissue treatment (not massage) as part of a treatment plan, so the whole team understands how massage fits with recovery.
Massage is a good fit for general muscle tension, stress and recovery. It is not a substitute for a physiotherapy assessment when something may be injured or not behaving as it should. A physio assessment may be more appropriate if you have:
- Pain that started after a fall, twist or specific injury
- Pain that is getting worse, or has lasted more than a few weeks
- Pins and needles, numbness or weakness, or pain travelling down an arm or leg
- A joint that is swollen, locking or giving way
- Pain that stops you sleeping, working or training normally
If you mention any of these, your massage therapist may suggest speaking with one of our physiotherapists first. Massage can also be added to a physiotherapy plan where your physiotherapist feels it will help.
Who you will see
Massage sessions at KINETIKA are with Katrine Gayle Ignacio, our Massage Therapist. Katrine has four years of hands-on experience and has received direct professional training and certification. Her techniques include deep tissue, relaxation, Thai and Shiatsu massage, and she adapts her approach to each person's needs and comfort.
Katrine's view is that good massage is not only about relaxation. It is about understanding what the body needs and using the right touch, pressure and technique to help it feel and move better.
Safety: when to check first
Massage is suitable for most people, but it is not right for everyone at every time. Please speak with your doctor before booking, or tell us when you book, if you:
- Are pregnant. During pregnancy we offer pregnancy massage only, and always with your doctor's clearance. Deep tissue massage is not offered during pregnancy.
- Have had surgery recently, or have a wound, stitches or a healing fracture
- Have a history of blood clots or deep vein thrombosis, or take blood-thinning medication
- Have a heart condition, uncontrolled high blood pressure, diabetes affecting sensation, or a condition that affects your skin, nerves or bones
- Are having treatment for cancer, or have had lymph nodes removed
Massage is not suitable if you have a fever, feel unwell with an infection, or have a skin infection, rash, burn or open wound in the area. Do not have massage over a calf that is suddenly swollen, hot, red or painful; seek medical advice promptly instead, as this can be a sign of a blood clot.
If you are unsure, contact our Dubai Hills team before booking and we will talk it through.
Deep tissue massage in Dubai Hills
Our clinic is in Park Heights Square 1, Unit 403 on Floor 4, on Al Khail Road, so it is easy to reach from across Dubai Hills and the neighbouring communities. Many of our clients live or work in Dubai Hills Estate and fit a massage around the school run, a morning at the office or a session at the gym. A lot of the tension we see reflects local routines: long commutes along Al Khail Road, hours at a desk, weekend padel and running loops around the park. Coming to a clinic rather than a spa means that if your tight shoulders turn out to be something more, a physiotherapist is in the same building to help.
If you are also having physiotherapy, we usually book deep tissue massage on a different day from your physio session, because the treated area can be sore afterwards. A relaxation massage can follow a physio session.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
Does deep tissue massage hurt?
It can feel intense on very tight areas, but it should not be painful in a way that makes you tense up or hold your breath. Your therapist builds pressure gradually and will adjust whenever you ask.
What is the difference between deep tissue and relaxation massage?
Deep tissue massage uses slower, firmer pressure to work into deeper muscle layers and specific tight spots. Relaxation massage uses lighter, flowing strokes and is aimed at relaxation and easing general tension.
Can I have both deep tissue and relaxing massage in one session?
Yes. Many people ask for firmer work on one area, such as the neck and shoulders, and a lighter approach elsewhere. Tell your therapist what you would like at the start.
Will I feel sore afterwards?
Some people feel mild tenderness for a day or so, a bit like after exercise. Gentle movement, water and warmth can help. Let us know if soreness is sharp or lasts longer than a couple of days.
Can I have a massage if I am pregnant?
During pregnancy we offer pregnancy massage only, and always with your doctor's clearance. Let us know you are pregnant when you book.
Should I see a physiotherapist or book a massage?
Massage suits general muscle tension, stress and recovery. If you have a recent injury, pain that is worsening or lasting weeks, or numbness, tingling or weakness, a physiotherapy assessment is the better starting point. Our team can advise you.
Can massage be part of my physiotherapy treatment?
Yes. Your physiotherapist may suggest adding massage to support your recovery. Massage can also be booked on its own.
How often should I have a massage?
It depends on your routine and how your body responds. Your therapist can suggest what might suit you.
What should I wear?
Wear something comfortable. You will be draped with towels throughout, and only the area being worked on is uncovered. Let your therapist know if you would prefer to keep certain clothing on.
Who will do my massage?
Massage sessions are with Katrine Gayle Ignacio, our Massage Therapist, who has four years of hands-on experience in deep tissue, relaxation, Thai and Shiatsu massage.
Massage and recovery
Dubai Hills
Book a massage
Unit 403, Floor 4, Park Heights Square 1, Al Khail Road, Dubai Hills.