Are intense massages good for you?

Author: Andreanne Welch IV  |  Last update: Sunday, June 1, 2025

Deep tissue massage can help to alleviate chronic pain, reduce stress, and improve posture. It is also used to break up scar tissue, reduce inflammation, and improve circulation.

Is a really hard massage good for you?

Deep tissue massage can be an effective treatment method for various conditions, including sports injuries and back pain. Therapeutic massage may also relieve stress and help with health conditions such as fibromyalgia and high blood pressure.

What happens to your body after a deep massage?

So, what happens to the body after deep tissue massage? Most clients report feeling mild soreness akin to DOMS after deep tissue massage. This usually lasts a few days after which time clients report benefits such as pain relief, improved range of motion, better sleep, and lower blood pressure.

Can a massage be too intense?

Massage can overstimulate some people. Certain populations should have shorter gentler sessions. A massage can make some people more sore than they want to be. There can be a soreness after a session depending on how your muscles react and your overall health.

How often should you get a deep massage?

For optimal results, a monthly session is commonly recommended. Athletes may benefit from bi-weekly sessions to support muscle recovery and prevent injuries. Individuals with chronic pain might require more frequent treatments, especially during initial stages.

The Biological Benefits of Frequent Massage

How many massages to get knots out?

A weekly or bi-weekly session could prevent these knots from escalating. Conversely, severe knots, causing considerable pain and restricted movement, may require more frequent attention, possibly two to three sessions per week initially. Knowing the severity is key in how often you should get a massage for knots.

What is the most pleasurable type of massage?

The Most Relaxing Types of Massages
  • Swedish Massage. The most common type of massage therapy, Swedish massage will help to relax you with a combination of specific movements including: ...
  • Hot Stone Massage. Another very relaxing type of massage is the hot stone massage. ...
  • Chair Massage. ...
  • Aromatherapy Massage.

How do you know if you got a bad massage?

Experiencing sharp pain or excessive discomfort during or after the session is a clear indication that the massage wasn't beneficial. While some discomfort can be normal, especially with deep tissue massage, it should never cross the line into sharp pain.

Why do hard massages feel good?

Physically, the massage lengthens your muscles as you relax, which gives them a nice stretch. Chemically, those endorphins allow you to relax, which helps to reduce all that built-up tension in your body.

What are 3 instances when massage is not recommended?

Certain skin conditions, such as open wounds, burns, rashes, or contagious skin infections (like impetigo or fungal infections), should not be treated with massage. Even non-contagious skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema may be aggravated by massage if not handled carefully.

What chemical is released after a massage?

Endorphins. While technically not a toxin, the release of endorphins during a massage is a significant benefit. These "feel-good" hormones naturally boost mood and relieve pain.

Why can't you shower after deep tissue massage?

After a massage, your body is in a state of relaxation and recovery, and the massage oils applied to your skin continue to nourish it. Taking a hot bath immediately could strip away these benefits. Generally, it's recommended to wait at least two to three hours after a massage before taking a bath.

Is it better to get a massage at night or morning?

If you have a busy lifestyle and seek relaxation after a long day of work and family commitments, an evening or before-bed massage can help you relax your body and mind. On the other hand, a morning or afternoon massage can increase your energy levels and help you face the day.

What are the cons of massage?

Side effects associated with massage therapy are rare. However, they can include nausea, headaches, soreness in the muscles being massaged, bruising or bleeding in some cases, fatigue, dizziness, mental/emotional discomfort (anxiety), fainting, and skin irritation.

Is a 2 hour massage too long?

A two-hour session may seem to be a little extreme to some, but seasoned massage connoisseurs love it! It's not recommended for newbies to massage. Your therapist can provide specific Ashiatsu Barefoot Massage, Deep Tissue work, Cupping, and even some stretching and Range Of Motion within this massage length.

Why does pressing on knots feel good?

When you massage a knot, it often feels like you are stretching a rope or taffy which is stuck in your muscle tissues. This may be a result of increased blood flow to the site of tension, but it also may be due to the relaxation of the connective tissue that surrounds your muscles (called fascia).

Is it good if a massage hurts?

It's important to know that it isn't unusual to feel a degree of discomfort during the massage itself. The whole point of this treatment is to break up muscle tension, adhesions and scar tissue that often lie in deeper musculature, so your therapist will likely be applying a good deal of pressure.

Can massage be too strong?

The short answer is yes. Depending on how tight your muscles are and how much pain you can handle, the amount of pressure a massage needs varies not only by person but also by session. It's important to know how much pressure is required because it can make all the difference between a good and a bad massage!

What are red flags in massage therapy?

Poor Communication and Boundary Setting. A professional massage therapist should communicate clearly about the massage process and respect your boundaries. Be wary of therapists who are vague or pushy about undressing. As Mikki noted, “If they're trying to brush past anything or be very quick, that's a red flag.

Can muscles be damaged by massage?

Injury Risk: Applying excessive pressure can cause bruising, inflammation, and even muscle or tissue damage. This can lead to prolonged recovery times and exacerbate existing issues.

What not to say during a massage?

Here are some examples of what you, as the client, should never do! :
  • Don't joke if this is a “happy ending" massage or make any sexual comments. ...
  • Don't get sexually excited, it's inappropriate. ...
  • Don't break wind. ...
  • Avoid talking too much. ...
  • Don't use your phone. ...
  • Don't be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

How do you know if a massage therapist is good?

Check credentials.

Make sure the massage therapist you are considering has the proper credentials. He or she should be certified or licensed by a recognized organization. Check to see if the organization requires continuing education or if it has a code of ethics.

What kind of massage do men like?

Types of men's massage
  • Swedish massage.
  • Deep tissue massage.
  • Lymphatic massage.
  • Sports massage.
  • Oncology massage.
  • Hot stone massage.
  • Aromatherapy massage.
  • Thai massage.

What body part feels the best in a massage?

The back is one of the most requested areas in any massage. It's where many people carry stress, tension, and discomfort from sitting, standing, or physical activity. Therapists focus on the upper, middle, and lower back to release tightness and improve mobility. The neck and shoulders are another high-tension zone.

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