5 Common Massage Myths - Debunked

When you're feeling stressed and sore, you have more options than just hanging around the house and taking a few ibuprofens to ease the tension. Believe it or not, you don't have to grin and bear your stress and tension as you

move through the day. Massage is a wonderful practice to help you relax, reduce stress, ease muscle tension, and much more. 

If you've ever been hesitant to treat yourself to a massage after a rumor or misconception, you're not alone. There are a ton of myths surrounding the practice, and it's no surprise massages have been a healthcare practice for thousands of years. Don't let old common myths talk you out of an enjoyable, relaxing experience. Here are some of the most common myths surrounding massage therapy. 

Myth: Massages are all the same

Truth: There are many types of massage forms that focus on different techniques, pressures, and use various tools to help with your recovery. When you book your next massage appointment, it’s important to speak up and be honest about your needs. Communicate with the massage therapist and express how your body is feeling so your massage therapist can help decide which massage technique will be most beneficial for you.

Myth: If you aren't sore the next day after a massage, it wasn't effective

Truth: Although some people can experience soreness after a massage, that's not a true indicator of whether the massage was effective or not. Often soreness after a massage, can be an indicator of sedentary muscles or if the massage hits trigger points in your body. Post massage muscle soreness can also come from a fluid deficiency, meaning it’s time to drink more water. After making massage a regular practice, your post massage soreness will likely dissipate. If you have any concerns about your post massage soreness, consult with your massage therapist.

Myth: You can't get a massage if you're pregnant

Truth: Massages during pregnancy are completely safe during all trimesters. There are rumors that massage can induce labor, but there is not any evidence to prove this rumor. Getting a massage during pregnancy can be a beneficial stress reliever and relaxation source. If you are pregnant and interested in massage it is always advised to speak with your doctor before making your appointment.

Myth: I don't need to drink water after a massage

Truth: As previously mentioned rehydration after a massage can be beneficial in helping reduce soreness after your massage. After all you just spent an hour sweating, working toxins out of your muscles, and even using muscles that may have been dormant for some time. Yes, you activate muscles during massages! Drinking water post massage can help flush those toxins, while hydrating your body and muscles. So “do you have to drink water?”, technically you don’t have to do anything but drinking water certainly can’t hurt.

Myth: Massage must be painful to work

Truth: Massages often induce relaxation and help you release stress and tension, and certainly do not require pain for recovery. Your bodies response to a massage, during and post, is likely dictated by several factors. If you are concerned with your body’s response to a massage, either during or post, consult with your massage therapist. Your massage therapist is trained to help you in your recovery journey and can assist you in understanding your body’s response to a massage treatment.

Massages can provide a whole host of benefits for just about anyone. It's a perfect way to help relieve stress and pain while improving your overall wellness.