Often, the pain associated with massage therapy comes from the release of chronic muscle tension. However, sometimes the pain comes from the masseur's poor technique. If the therapist works too deeply, it can damage tissue, which can cause pain. There are several different types of massages, such as Swedish massage, which is very light and uses little pressure, therefore, very little discomfort.
A deep tissue massage is usually the type of massage that can cause some discomfort, since the tissues and muscles actually work, but a well-trained massage therapist will always work within the client's comfort level. A deep tissue massage is very beneficial for any type of injury and will help with the healing process. If massages always hurt, they could mean several things. It could mean that the tissue being massaged is not 100% healthy and receiving a massage would be very therapeutic for that tissue, since it would help improve circulation and have less pain and discomfort.
It could also mean that you need to communicate a little more with your massage therapist to let her know if there is too much or too little pressure. What they think might be appropriate pressure may be too much for you in certain areas, so don't hesitate to talk and let the therapist know how you're feeling. The bottom line here is that massage can cause a bit of discomfort if you're already experiencing aches all over your body. Even if you don't realize it, we could all benefit from a massage from time to time to eliminate the stress and tension that have built up in the body. Before you go in for your next massage, be sure to communicate your comfort levels with your masseuse and you won't be disappointed.
Fascias are connective tissues in our body that work to keep muscles, organs, and other body structures in place. The fascias sometimes appear as bands and other times as sheets, and it is in the fascias that the trigger points can appear. A trigger point is a small, painful knot in the fascia and is sometimes discovered by accident during a regular massage. Trigger points often transmit pain to other parts of the body, so the pain you might feel in your forearm actually originates from a trigger point in your shoulder.
These points are hypersensitive and you will feel some pain as the masseur resolves them. Adhesions are painful places on the body where scar tissue has formed. They usually occur after surgery or after a serious injury; even a serious infection can cause adhesions. The reason adhesions cause pain is because they form a bridge between two unconnected areas of the body, such as between the body wall and the intestines. Adhesions are uncomfortably stretched and pulled and surgery is often suggested to remove them; the only problem here is that surgery can cause more adhesions.
Massage therapy to break up adhesions can be painful to one degree or another, and while the therapy may not be able to remove scar tissue completely, it can provide more flexibility and help drain excess fluid. Have you ever had a massage with pain and left with the same pain or maybe more? Deep-tissue massages may cause you a little discomfort or slight pain in the areas that are causing problems. Discomfort is normal with this type of massage therapy. Most customers say it's a “good damage” as it's a little uncomfortable but feels good at the same time. Read on to learn what to expect when you get a deep tissue massage. There is also a difference between good pain and bad pain.
For beginners, massage should not be painful. You're still getting to know your body and what you like. However, sometimes therapists go deeper to release a muscle. It can be a little uncomfortable in the short term, it's not all painful, it's just intense pressure, but then you feel much better. Swelling and discomfort usually last from a few hours to about a day and a half.
The same things you do to treat muscle pain after exercise can help relieve pain after a massage. Massage doesn't have to hurt to be effective. Many massage therapists are trained in multiple techniques that vary in pressure and time. If a technique doesn't seem therapeutic to you, but simply feels like pain, please say so.
We may be able to detect a problem area, but we can't feel the intensity of its pain response. In addition, tell your massage therapist about your medical history, medication changes, allergies, and recent illnesses. Each of these factors can influence the massage techniques used and the body's response to them. Communication with your therapist will bring you the most benefit from your massage.
Our main goal is to help you feel better. If you're sensitive to high pressures or are worried about a painful massage, consider Swedish massage instead of deep tissue massage or more intense techniques. Always keep in mind that while your therapist will do everything in their power to make your massage as pleasant as possible, there are certain conditions that can cause pain, especially if a specific problem is being addressed. When selecting your massage from a menu, you might be tempted to go get a massage without thinking about the amount of pressure required.
Your therapist will be able to use different pressures and adjust how you will proceed with the rest of the massage therapy session. However, if this doesn't work for you then don't hesitate to speak up! Remember that communication is key when it comes to getting an enjoyable experience out of your massage session.
