What should I do if I feel pain during a massage?
What Should I Do if I Feel Pain During a Massage? Insights from Bloom Bodywork Co. in Portland, Oregon
Massage therapy is a powerful tool for relaxation, pain relief, and overall well-being. However, experiencing pain during a massage can be concerning, especially if you’re not used to therapeutic touch. At Bloom Bodywork Co., our goal is to provide you with a comfortable, therapeutic experience that meets your individual needs without sending you out of your body. Here’s what you should do if you feel pain during a massage and how to ensure your session is both effective and enjoyable.
Is Pain During a Massage Normal?
A common misconception is that "no pain, no gain" applies to massage therapy. While it’s true that some therapeutic techniques, like deep tissue massage, can involve intense pressure to address chronic tension, this should never result in sharp, unbearable pain or you jumping off the table. If you’re experiencing discomfort that feels beyond your tolerance, it’s crucial to speak up and ask the therapist to decrease their pressure. We feel very passionate about this subject.
Communicate with Your Therapist
Communication is key to a successful massage session. If you feel pain, let your therapist know immediately. At Bloom Bodywork Co, our therapists are trained to adjust their techniques based on your body’s feedback. Whether it’s reducing the pressure, shifting focus to a different area, or changing the type of massage altogether, your comfort is our top priority. We approach our sessions with “body based consent”, meaning, if your muscles are kicking us out it is too much pressure and we back off. There are deep tissue techniques that are tolerable for the body and much more effective than applying intense pressure.
Understanding Different Types of Pain
There’s a difference between “good” pain and “bad” pain during a massage:
Good Pain: This is often described as a sensation of release or relief, even if it’s intense. It usually occurs when a therapist is working on a tight muscle or a trigger point. Your body is able to relax and you are able to breathe and talk normally.
Bad Pain: Sharp, stabbing, or intense pain that doesn’t feel right is considered bad pain. This type of discomfort can indicate that too much pressure is being applied or that the area being worked on requires a gentler approach. Bad pain signs are: sweating excessively, overwhelm sensations, jumping or flenching, frustration, screaming, and at times crying or dissociation.
At Bloom we will never send you close to “Bad Pain” This is simply just in our mind, bad massage.
Knowing the difference can help you better communicate your needs during a massage.
What Causes Pain During a Massage?
Several factors can contribute to pain during a massage:
Tight Muscles: Overly tight muscles may be more sensitive to pressure, leading to discomfort.
Injury or Inflammation: If you have an underlying injury or inflammation, certain massage techniques might aggravate it.
Trigger Points: These are hyper-sensitive spots in the muscle that can cause referred pain in other areas of the body when pressed.
Infrequent Bodywork: Those who have not received much bodywork may feel more sensitive and on edge in their first few sessions as their nervous system is in a more protective state.
Adjusting the Massage to Your Comfort
At Bloom Bodywork Co., our therapists are skilled in various techniques to accommodate your comfort level. Whether you need a lighter touch, more focus on relaxation, or a completely different approach, we can tailor the session to suit your needs. We are able to understand your body language and adjust generally before you say anything. Our approach is all about unwinding tension layer by layer and not pushing the body out of it’s comfort.
Post-Massage Care
If you feel any lingering pain after your massage, it’s important to take steps to care for your body. Resting, staying hydrated and nourished, gentle stretching and epsom salt baths can help alleviate discomfort. If the pain persists for more than 2 days, it’s advisable to consult with your bodyworker!
Book a *Comfortable* and *Healing* Massage in Portland, Oregon
Your comfort and well-being are paramount at Bloom Bodywork Co. If you’re concerned about experiencing pain during a massage or have specific needs, our experienced therapists are here to help. We offer a range of massage services in Portland, Oregon, designed to promote relaxation, relieve pain, and enhance your overall well-being. Let us be your guide on this stuff. Follow @sophiesomatics on socials for more information about healing through the body and nervous system.
Schedule your appointment today and experience a massage that’s perfectly tailored to your comfort. (;
