No Pain Necessary

Deep tissue massage has to hurt, or else it isn’t working. Right?

Not at all! “Deep tissue” simply means that the massage therapist is addressing soft tissue (muscle, fascia, tendons) that lies beneath the superficial layers of skin, adipose, and muscle. There are many ways to accomplish this so that everyone can find a method of deep tissue that works best for their body.

Deep tissue massage gained a reputation for being the “painful” massage. It is very unfortunate, because it has scared a lot of people away from receiving a very beneficial style of bodywork. I’ve had countless new clients come in the door and say they don’t want deep tissue because they were “sore for over a week the last time they got one”, or “because bruises were left by the last therapist”, or because they were “completely unable to relax during the massage”. This is beyond excessive and should not be a client’s experience - ever! Yes, sometimes massage can be uncomfortable, but any massage therapist should make it clear that you control the pressure and can speak up at any time. I want my clients speak up and give feedback so adjustments can be made. This allows for the best possible massage experience.

I never want the pressure to be painful for my clients. You should be able to relax and drift off while work is being done. The absence of pain does not indicate that work is not being done. You should feel like you had a good workout after the massage, if there is any soreness. Lots of water and a good walk is always helpful after a massage.