12/02/07

Wellness Showcase 

SHOULD MASSAGE HURT? 

As a new massage therapist 6 years ago, I heard many stories from disgruntled folks who had surrendered themselves for a massage only to find themselves in the throes of a painful deep tissue massage; or, that even though they enjoyed the massage they received, they were stiff and sore for a couple of days afterwards.

Six years have passed and I have learned several things. 

First, subjectivity.  When a client requests a deep tissue massage, it may or may not be truly what is wanted.  How deep is a relative matter. 

Second, toxic body.  The most gentle relaxation massage will stir up any toxins that muscles are holding onto and there can be painful muscles for 24 to 48 hours following a massage. This has nothing to do with deep tissue manipulation and everything to do with stress hormones and chemicals being invited to leave your muscles. 

Third, inactive lifestyle.  Massage of any kind stimulates the muscles and activates them.  If you have a sedentary lifestyle, it is likely that your muscles are holding toxins and are probably not at their “natural resting length.”  When this is the case, massage will feel just like you worked out. 

WHAT CAN I DO?

Discuss with your therapist how you want to feel during and after the massage.  Be ready to answer questions like, “Do you exercise?”  Or, “How frequently do you get a massage?” Or, “Do you have fibromyalgia, arthritis, or rheumatism?” Or, “How much water do you drink per day?”   

If you feel that a deep tissue massage is in order, arrange for your therapist to show you what that might feel like.  Stay in touch with how you are feeling as the massage progresses and inform the therapist if and when you need “more,” or “less”. 

Remember that although you are on the table, it is your body that is being massaged.  If you find that you are anticipating pain or resistance to the therapist’s touch, say so and ask the therapist to “lighten up.”  

Drink plenty of water before and after the massage.  Water will dilute toxins that are released from muscles during a massage and will decrease the effects of “massage hangover” (that sluggish feeling that can go on for 24 to 48 hours due to toxins released from muscles into the bloodstream). 

Become aware that your body will react differently for the first three to four massages as you progress on the path of not well to wellness.  There is no massage therapist on earth who can predict what you will feel like following any given massage. 

In essence, take responsibility for what you want and communicate extensively with your therapist about prior reactions.  Drink plenty of water before and afterwards.   

My philosophy is to begin with firmly gentle techniques and try different approaches as we both get to know each other.  As you visit this website you will note I am trained in many, many modalities of massage therapy – I want to benefit you in the most pleasant way possible. 

I am available 5 days and 4 evenings a week to serve your therapeutic massage needs.  Call 317-865-8179; or
e-mail, mtcoach@comcast.net .