9 Massage Myths Debunked

Massage therapy is the manipulation of muscles, soft tissue, tendons, and ligaments. Massage therapy is performed by a licensed professional who applies varying degrees of pressure using their hands and fingers. Its benefits include enhanced well-being, improved range of motion, and deep relaxation.

Though massage therapy has been around for thousands of years, there are still myths surrounding it. In this article, we hope to clear the misconceptions around massage therapy so you can get the most out of your sessions.

1. A massage is the same no matter where you go

If you have never had a massage, you might think that all massages are the same everywhere. In actuality, the massage experience can vary significantly, depending on the skill of the therapist and the environment in which the session takes place.

Massage should be tailored to an individual’s body conditions, ailments, and what they expect out of their treatment. Your therapist will decide which therapy works best for you.

There are several massage modalities:

• Swedish Massage: A gentle form of massage in which the therapist uses long, gentle strokes and performs kneading, tapping, vibration, and other forms of movements to make you feel relaxed and destressed.

• Deep Tissue Massage: Using slow and deliberate deep strokes, the massage therapist targets the deep layers of muscle and connective tissues to improve recovery and flexibility.

• Hot Stones Massage: A therapist places hot healing stones on the body’s pain points to loosen tense muscles and improve recovery.

• Sports Massage: Sports massage is similar to Swedish massage, but is more geared towards those who participate in sporting activities. This therapy is beneficial before and/or after a major event to stimulate energy and recovery.

• Trigger Point Massage: Trigger point massage targets the tight knots that can form in the muscles due to injury or an excessive workload.

2. Massages are only for pampering and relaxation

The benefits of massage therapy go far beyond just treating yourself. Regular massage sessions can improve your overall health, alleviate chronic pain, aid in recovery, and reduce stress.

If you suffer from depression, PTSD, anxiety, or insomnia, massages in the hands of experienced therapists can also help with these conditions’ symptoms.

Massage therapy can also uplift your mood with the release of endorphins during a session. No wonder millions of people turn to massage therapy every year!

3. Massage therapy works on the muscles alone

While massage therapy does aid the body’s muscles, its benefits are much more comprehensive:

• Stimulates the lymph nodes and promotes the flow of lymph throughout the body, helping to fight infection and reduce inflammation.

• Promotes blood circulation, which helps with healing as nutrients are properly distributed throughout the body.

• Alleviates swollen joints.

• Aids the recovery of soft tissue injuries.

• Helps to break down scar tissue.

4. A pregnant woman shouldn’t get a massage

While you should always consult with your OBGYN first, massage is generally safe for pregnant women. Our clients typically experience reduced stress and anxiety, fewer aches and pains, and an uplifted mood following a prenatal massage.

5. A sign of an effective message is soreness the next day

Soreness is not a direct indication of how effective a massage has been. While you may experience some tenderness after certain massage techniques, you don’t need to feel sore the next day for the massage to have been effective.

[LEARN MORE]: Sore After Massage: Why this happens and what to do

6. A massage has to be painful for it to be effective

While some discomfort is common when you are receiving a massage, you should NEVER experience any pain whatsoever. If this occurs, immediately inform your therapist!

7. The effects are not long-lasting

Regular massage sessions can be highly effective in providing numerous benefits. Namely, a professional massage therapist can train your muscles for greater flexibility and range of motion.

8. Never interrupt your therapist, even if it hurts

Slight discomfort can occur during your massage session, especially with firm pressure or deep tissue techniques. However, sharp or consistent pain is not normal. Immediately inform your therapist if you experience this.

After all, a massage should provide relaxation and rejuvenation. If all is going great and you would rather remain silent, that’s perfectly okay as well. Whatever works for you!

9. I don’t have to discuss my medical history with my therapist

If you have a medical condition, have had surgery, or taken medication before your session, inform your massage therapist before the session begins. This way, they can customize their massage technique to your needs. 

Final Wrap

Massage therapy can improve your body, mind, and emotional health in numerous ways. However, there are many misconceptions surrounding massage therapy that often hold people back from the help they deserve. Being more informed helps you to receive the most benefit from your sessions.