What is connective tissue massage?

A deep, manual technique that works on the fascia beneath the skin. Learn how it works, which complaints it suits and what you can feel during a treatment.

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What is connective tissue massage?

Connective tissue massage is a deep, manual massage technique that works on the connective tissue, or fascia — the web of collagen fibres beneath the skin that connects and supports skin, muscles, blood vessels and organs. Where a classic relaxation massage works mainly at the surface and on the muscles, connective tissue massage works more deeply and more precisely on this layer. This is a general explanation of the technique; it is not a medical treatment and does not replace advice from a doctor.

At Bodyfix in Amsterdam, connective tissue massage is central to what we do. The Bodyfix Method was developed by founder Agnieszka Kadula. During the consultation we discuss your wishes and look at and feel the treatment area. This Bodyreading helps us adapt the massage; it is not a medical diagnosis.

From explanation to your treatment

At Bodyfix you can choose manual connective tissue massage for your face or body. A single session costs €70 for 30 minutes, €140 for 60 minutes or €210 for 90 minutes. Start with a free consultation, booked for 10 minutes online.

The local treatment page explains the choices, the approach and our locations in Amsterdam-Zuid. Explore prices and packages, meet our team or read about the treatment journey and aftercare.

Explore connective tissue massage in Amsterdam

How does connective tissue massage work?

Connective tissue massage is performed by hand. The practitioner works on an agreed area and adjusts the pressure to your comfort. The explanation below describes the approach, not a guaranteed treatment result. The technique is not a medical treatment and the effect can vary from person to person.

1

Targeted hand movements

The practitioner uses targeted hand movements to massage the connective tissue beneath the skin.

2

Agreeing on the area

You discuss which area of your face or body will receive attention and what you expect from the session.

3

Adjusting pressure

The pressure and rhythm are adapted to your comfort. You can set your limits during the treatment.

4

Discussing your experience

After the session you discuss how the massage felt and whether you would like to plan another session.

Want to understand the tissue itself in more detail? Read our explanation of what fascia is, or see how we approach releasing adhesions.

For which complaints?

Connective tissue massage is used for a range of skin and tissue themes. The technique is not a medical treatment and is not a replacement for care or advice from a doctor; whether it is suitable, and how your body responds, can vary from person to person and from one situation to another. It is often applied for the following themes:

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    Cellulite — with a focus on the connective tissue (the subcutaneous fascia)

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    Lipoedema — supportive only, by agreement and with appropriate caution; not a replacement for medical care

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    Skin firming — with a focus on the structure and feel of the skin

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    Scars and adhesions, for example after a C-section

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    A heavy or tense feeling in the legs or abdomen

For themes such as lipoedema, lymphoedema and oedema we always work cautiously and in tune with your situation, and only as a possible support alongside any medical care — never as a replacement for it. Not sure whether connective tissue massage is suitable for you? Please discuss it with your doctor first, and raise it during the free consultation, or read our frequently asked questions. To see what a session looks like, explore connective tissue massage in Amsterdam.

What do you feel during the treatment?

Connective tissue massage can feel firmer than a relaxation massage. The intensity is adjusted to your comfort and you set your own limits. Pain is not a measure of a good result; discuss discomfort with your practitioner during the treatment.

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    A more intensive, deeper sensation than a classic massage

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    Temporary redness of the skin afterwards can occur and usually settles

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    Sometimes a slightly tender or warm feeling in the treated area

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    Many clients describe a lighter, suppler feeling afterwards; this is personal and not guaranteed

It can help to drink plenty of water after the treatment. How your body responds is personal, and our therapists guide you through it. If you have a medical condition, please consult your doctor beforehand.

Manual massage and separately booked lymphatic drainage

Connective tissue massage at Bodyfix is performed by hand. Device-assisted lymphatic drainage is a separate 30-minute treatment costing €45. It is not included as standard in the massage price. If you would like both, discuss the timing and book them separately or as an offered combination.

Read more about the Bodyfix Method and how it differs from lymphatic drainage. Meet the team and read about founder Agnieszka Kadula.

Book a free consultation

Curious whether connective tissue massage might suit you? The free consultation is listed as 10 minutes in the online calendar. We discuss your wishes and questions and which approach suits your situation, with no obligation to book a treatment.

Bodyfix Amsterdam

Main location: Legmeerplein 7, 1058 NJ Amsterdam. Second treatment location: Haarlemmermeerstraat 115, Amsterdam, approximately 30–60 seconds away on foot.
If you are unsure about the location of your appointment, contact us on +31 6 5580 4938 or info@bodyfix.nl. See directions and contact.

Book a free consultation

Prefer to read more first? Explore connective tissue massage in Amsterdam to see how a session works.

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Book your free, no-obligation consultation and discover whether connective tissue massage suits you.

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Sources and medical background

NCCIH: Massage Therapy — What You Need To Know

These sources provide general information; they do not establish the effectiveness of the Bodyfix Method. Checked on 10 September 2026.