Massage Therapy has been getting more popular as an alternative for pain treatment in recent times. For the most part, the public still relates massage as something you do on vacation or to relax. There are many misconceptions about what people think about massage therapy and I’m here to share what we would like you to know.

The question was brought up in a few social media groups full of massage therapists, “What is the one thing you would tell the public about massage?” Here is what we had to say:

1. It should be a part of your self care routine.

2. Massage doesn’t need to hurt in order for it to be effective. Pain does not equal good work. If it hurts, it’s too deep and I’m not going to exhaust myself fighting your nervous system.

3. We go through more education than just “rubbing lotion on bodies”.  1000’s of hours went into my education and I continue to add to my skills and knowledge.

4. Stress is proven to cause and/or exacerbate disease. Massage is proven to reduce stress. Get a massage before you get stressed and definitely get a massage when you are stressed!  It’s also proven to help with PTSD.

5. I've met a lot of people who are hard on themselves and won't get a massage out of embarrassment, so I'd tell them “it doesn't matter how you look naked!” We don't judge or really pay attention for that matter.

6. It’s MASSAGE THERAPIST not masseuse (masseuse is a negative connotation which has been associated with sex work). 

7. Massage Therapy does not include a “happy ending”. 

8. It's not a luxury item to do for yourself. You can afford it.

9. Massage is an individual approach. If you have experienced a massage that didn’t help or make you comfortable with the treatment, PLEASE give it another chance. There are multiple techniques and massage is worth it. Try multiple therapists and you will find someone that works with you.

10. Massage, one of the least invasive treatments for your body, with the highest number of potential health benefits.

11. The goal is to get you making changes to your lifestyle . Massage is the beginning to a better you.

12. Massage can help with emotional pain just as much as it can with physical pain. Relaxation massage is just as valid and therapeutic as clinical massage.

13. It all adds up. Make sure you have a good plan, a therapist you can trust, and stay consistent. Your body will thank you!

14. IT’S NOT PAMPERING, IT’S HEALTHCARE.

15. It is your massage, if it hurts, speak up. If the music is too loud, speak up. If you’re uncomfortable and want the session to end, speak up.

16. Women... Us Massage therapists don't care if you haven't shaved your legs (We really don’t!).

17. It's not magic. It takes time to get lasting results. The dysfunction didn't happen overnight.

18. To quote one of my clients “This is so much better than ibuprofen.”

19. If you’re uncomfortable taking off your clothes, most clinical massage therapists have no problem working through t-shirt & shorts.  Some prefer this approach anyways.

20. Massage changes lives. It will change yours. Try it.

There you have it!  Most of these statements I must have said to my own clients at one point or another.  Hopefully this will clear up any misconceptions you may have had about Massage Therapy.  Have you experienced massage before? Do you have any questions about Massage Therapy or what it may be able to do for you?  Comment below with your questions!