Muscle aches and fatigue is common after a deep tissue massage. The movement of muscle fibres causes stimulation that can often result in pain.
Deep tissue massage should not be performed on clients that have fragility issues, skin conditions, or problems with blood flow such as: A blood clotting disorder. Increased risk of injury, such as bone fractures. Nerve injury.
These are areas of the body where deep, sustained pressure should be avoided because of the structures that lie beneath. Those areas are the anterior and posterior triangles of the neck, suprasternal notch, sternum, axilla, spinal column, umbilical area, inguinal triangle, popliteal fossa, and the antecubital fossa.
Swedish massage is arguably considered the most popular massage type, appearing on a majority of spa menus worldwide. This Western massage utilizes the following techniques—effleurage (stroking), friction (rubbing), petrissage (kneading) and tapotement (rhythmic choppings)—for a truly relaxing spa treatment experience.
These include direct manipulation of the spine, the front of the neck, and any visibly injured or inflamed areas.
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.
While a deep tissue massage may be uncomfortable initially, it is highly effective in relieving pain and promoting healing. Other massages that may benefit those with back pain include Swedish, trigger point, and Shiatsu.
Trigger points, or muscle knots, are hyperirritable spots within a taut band of skeletal muscle. The pressure applied during therapy can cause these points to release, sometimes resulting in a popping sound.
Increased Muscle Tension: When experiencing pain, your body naturally responds by tensing up. This involuntary reaction can make the muscles tighter, counteracting the intended benefits of the massage. Injury Risk: Applying excessive pressure can cause bruising, inflammation, and even muscle or tissue damage.
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.
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.
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.
No worries, your therapist can easily work over the sheet to get to these pesky problem areas. Groin & pelvic pain can stick around for quite some time, so I would always suggest at least three or more sessions of massage to make a difference.
The temperature of the water can cause your muscles to tense up, which can negate the benefits of massage therapy. The heat can also increase the risk of dehydration. Inflammation may also occur if you are already feeling sore after the massage. Wait at least 1-2 hours before showering or taking a bath.
Points on the body that we do not massage are: The spine, as it can be irreparably injured. The abdomen, especially when it comes to pregnant women or people with stomach and abdominal diseases. The head, when there is an injury or other factors including inflammation and swelling.
Never touch the client's genitals or anus. Clients can only provide explicit consent to have their genital area and gluteal cleft exposed for the purpose of Massage Therapy during childbirth.
Nuru Massage
The word nuru is Japanese for slippery. During a nuru massage, a person covers themselves in massage oil and lies across the naked body of another person and rubs their bodies together, aiming for maximum contact. This type of service can be part of sex work, and may be illegal in many places.
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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.