Communication: The Key to an Effective Deep Tissue Massage
/Communication: The key to an effective deep tissue massage
Many people call me for a deep tissue massage in the Orlando area.
Many times they tell me their previous experiences, which usually fall into 1 of 2 categories:
- I can’t find someone to go deep enough
- I want a deep tissue massage, but the last therapist hurt me so I’m nervous
As far as pressure, I have never had someone leave my table saying they wish they could have gotten more pressure.
When it comes to the deep tissue massage not hurting, that is something I can offer as well. There are a few levels of “hurt” and my goal is never to bring you to experience sharp pain that makes you hold your breath and tense up. The goal of a deep tissue massage is to relieve your pain and also help you attain the “good hurt” feeling associated with a great deep tissue or sports massage.
If you are currently in pain, a massage can help, but a massage that is pure relaxation will not be effective in eliminating your pain. There is always some discomfort with deep work, especially when there is an underlying problem.
There is a certain level of skill and experience a massage therapist must have in order to provide a high quality deep tissue massage. Part of that skill and experience is communication. Communication can seem like an unimportant aspect of a massage, but in reality, it is one of the main components in having a successful massage experience.
There is a common misconception among the male population where they feel they have to be “tough” throughout the massage otherwise they are not manly. The last thing anyone needs to be in a deep tissue massage is “tough.” The focus should be on what your body is capable of and what is best for you. If you try to be tough you will most likely end up extremely sore and potentially hurt.
Another misconception is clients not wanting to say anything to the massage therapist because they don’t want to hurt the therapist’s feelings. Trust me when I tell you, speaking up when you don’t like something will NOT hurt the massage therapist’s feelings. As a deep tissue massage therapist, I am there for you. If you are not enjoying the massage and feel like I am not listening to you, there’s a good chance I won’t see you again and you won’t be referring people to me. I am able to listen to you and change the session so it is more in align with what you can handle, that’s a win-win all around!
In my deep tissue massage sessions, I encourage communication from the beginning of the massage. I also check in regularly with you to make sure everything is going well. There are also visual clues that help me see when the pressure may be getting too much for you. Even with all the communication I do, it is important for you to speak up at any time you are unsure of something you are feeling or you are uncomfortable in anyway.
Remember, communication is the most effective way to ensure you have a successful deep tissue massage experience. Speak up, Speak Often, Speak Loudly!
If you're in the Central Florida area and want to get some great deep tissue massage or sports massage for yourself or traveling team or performance company get in touch with me through the Contact page and set something up.
Have a Great Day!
-Michael Ames, LMT
Deep Tissue & Sports Massage Specialist