Demystifying Some of The Most Common Massage Therapy Myths

Massage therapy is a centuries-old wellness practice that helps you relax and assists in alleviating physical discomforts like pain and inflammation.

However, you might see many people getting skeptical about massage therapies. That’s because of the myths and misconceptions that still linger about this ancient practice! However, myths about massage can be very misleading, and might as well deter potential clients from opting for massage therapies at all.

In this blog, we are going to debunk some of the common myths associated with massage therapy in Richmond and separate facts from fiction.

Separating Facts and Fiction About Massage Therapy

Myth 1: Massages are solely meant for relaxation

One of the most common misconceptions about Richmond massage therapy is that it is solely meant for relaxation purposes.

Relaxation is indeed a by-product of opting for massage therapy. But, it fetches far more benefits than just relaxation! For instance, a peaceful massage session can help reduce stress and anxiety levels optimally. Added to that, it can also reduce inflammation, and assist in recovery.

Also, structural massage therapy can fetch you more benefits than you can ever imagine! So, massages indeed work more than just relaxation.

Myth 2: Deep tissue massages are painful

Another one of the common myths is that deep tissue massages are painful. Well, to tell you the truth, that’s not the case!

Deep tissue massage is meant to focus on the deeper layer of muscles. So, it does involve the application of more pressure than a Swedish massage. But, that doesn’t mean the session has to be a painful one!

On the contrary, if you do feel pain, you must let the therapist know! Based on your feedback, they can adjust their techniques or pressure applications to make sure that you feel comfortable.

Myth 3: Massage can treat scoliosis

Scoliosis is a condition that causes an abnormal side curvature of the spine. This can give rise to issues such as bad posture, and severe pain in the lower back region.

While massage for scoliosis can help manage the pain and contractions associated with this condition, in no way it can help treat scoliosis. And the primary reason for that is because scoliosis is a structural condition and not a muscular one.

Myth 4: Massages might spread/ worsen cancer

The last and probably one of the most alarming misconceptions about the best full-body massage is that it is responsible for spreading/ worsening cancer! This myth emerges from the idea that massage enhances blood flow, which is the reason behind the spreading of cancer cells.

Cancer spreads because of genetic mutations, and an array of other complexities, but not through physical manipulation. Surprisingly, massage therapy is a great way to reduce the pain and anxiety levels of cancer patients! However, therapists make it a point to approach cancer patients with greater care.

Myth 5: More massage sessions can drive better results

Massage sessions at regular intervals can help you stay relaxed and also help maintain suppleness in your muscles. But what happens when you get a massage frequently? Well, it can cause you more pain!

That’s because massage therapy involves manipulation of the muscles and tissues. And if you do that frequently, it can increase soreness in your muscles and tissues rather than reducing it!

So, always consult with your therapist and opt for a balanced approach. The best way to determine the ideal frequency is to discuss with your therapist about your existing conditions and set sessions accordingly. Similar to this, there is also a drinking water after massage myth that is quite popular! Many people think that drinking water right after a massage session helps flush out toxins, which is a wrong notion. Hydration is necessary, but it won’t help flush out toxins from your muscles. Your kidneys and liver does that job quite well!

Myth 6: Massage sessions are meant for adults only

And nothing can be more misleading! Massage sessions are not just meant for the adult population! Children, and even elderly people, can benefit from seeking massage therapy. How?

Well, children may incur injuries while playing, and at times the pain hits the roof! So, massage therapy can help alleviate the pain at that point.

Even in elderly people, massage therapy can be helpful in many ways. They may suffer from stiffness, or decreased joint mobility. A massage therapy can help reduce muscle stiffness as it helps enhance overall blood flow. Added to that, it also helps improve joint mobility.

Myth 7: All massage therapies are the same

Another very common myth is that all massage therapies are the same! Well, only noobs can say such a thing!

Massages come in a variety of forms, which include deep tissue massage, foot massage, Swedish massage, sports massage, etc. And each one of these is tailored to address very specific issues. So, once you understand how they work, it will be easier for you to decide which type of massage you actually need.

Many people ask should you shower after a massage? Well, it’s completely up to you! Taking a shower after a massage session doesn’t cause any harm to your body. However, if you’ve opted for an essential oil massage, let the oil absorb for some time before taking a shower.

Myth 8: Quality massage sessions call for expensive places

Many people think that only expensive spas or premium massage parlors offer quality massage services. But, that’s far from reality!

The quality of a massage depends solely on the skills, and experiences of the therapist. And that is one of the lesser known facts about massage therapists which you won’t be able to understand unless you try it for yourself.

So, make sure to check the qualifications, and experience of the therapist before you sign-up. That way, you can guarantee yourself one of the most relaxing massage sessions.

To Conclude

Misconceptions are the primary elements that cloud our sense of judgment. Especially when it comes to a wellness practice like massages, common massage myths can be the real villains and deter you from experiencing the benefits that come associated with massages!

So, if you’re having second thoughts about opting for the foot and body massage, let it all go and experience it once to know the difference! Book an appointment with us at Palais France Massages, and delve into a world of relaxation today! Email at palaisfrance@gmail.com for any further queries.

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