Common Massage Myths
There are plenty of claims and beliefs out there about massage therapy, and many of them are untrue. Some of them might even discourage people who could greatly benefit from massage therapy from using it. Let’s look at five common myths surrounding our work.
Myth #1: All massages are the same—a massage is a massage.
Variety is the spice of life. Different types of massage address different needs. Whether your goal is general relaxation or you have a specific ache or injury you’d like to address, talk to your massage therapist about what type of massage best addresses that goal. From targeting specific muscle knots to working on general areas of tension, ask us what type of massage is best for you.
Myth #2: Effective massages hurt.
You’ve heard it, and you have even thought it yourself. No pain, no gain, right? The truth is, while some discomfort is normal, massage should not hurt. If a particular movement is hurting you, tell your therapist. Pain causes the body to tense and can be counter-productive during massage.
Myth #3: If you aren’t sore the next day, the massage wasn’t good enough.
While feeling sore after a massage is common, particularly after deep tissue massages, it is also completely normal to not be sore. Soreness depends on many factors, ranging from hydration to depth of massage to how your body responds to movement.
Myth #4: Massages only affect your muscles.
Our bodies are made up of many different systems, and those systems work together. Massages can affect muscles, joints, and your circulatory system, and they can produce benefits on many levels. After massage, clients report a wide range of benefits including lowered stress and better sleep, improved range of movement, headache relief, and many other things. Massage goes far beyond just pampering yourself or relaxing muscles. It can produce results in many facets of your life and body.
Myth #5: Your health history doesn’t matter.
Just as your specific goals help inform your therapist’s techniques, your health history informs them as well. Some health conditions might mean you need to avoid certain types of massage or could impact how they approach your massage therapy. Talk to your massage therapist about your medications, past surgeries, and any diseases you might have. If you have any concerns, consult with your doctor about the safety of massage therapy for you.
Don’t let any of these five misconceptions keep you from experiencing all the benefits of bodywork. As always, communicate with your massage therapist if you have any questions or concerns, whether before, during, or after your massage. We can help answer any questions you have and work together to accomplish your goals.
