During a Swedish massage, what Happens?

Areas of tightness or discomfort, allergies, and conditions such as pregnancy are all things you can tell a therapist. You may also tell them whether you want light or firm pressure up front.

The therapist then leaves the room after instructing you on how to lie on the table—face up or face down, and whether to lie under the sheet or towel or not. Before entering, he will knock or ask if you are ready.

Are there any negative consequences?

Following a deep tissue massage, it’s not uncommon to experience any soreness for a few days. Soreness may be relieved by using a heating pad or a cold pack wrapped in a towel.

Though massage therapy is usually considered healthy, deep tissue massage uses extremely firm pressure and may not be suitable for all people.

If you have any of the following conditions, consult your doctor before getting a deep tissue massage:

• have a clotting disorder or a history of blood clots
• you’re on blood thinners
• suffer from a bleeding condition
• have cancer or are undergoing cancer treatment (chemotherapy or radiation)

Deep tissue massage should be avoided by anyone with osteoporosis or cancer that has spread to the bones, as the firm pressure used may cause a fracture. If you’re pregnant, you can also stop deep tissue massages. Swedish massage, for example, is a gentler style of massage that could be a safer choice.

If you have an open wound or other kind of skin infection, you must reschedule to avoid contracting a new infection or worsening an existing one.

During a massage, you should predict the following:

Massage does not necessitate any special training. Before starting a massage therapy session, your massage therapist may inquire about any symptoms you might be having, as well as your medical history and what you expect to learn from massage. Your massage therapist should describe the type of massage and methods that will be used.

You undress or wear loose-fitting clothes during a standard massage therapy session. Just undress to the point where you’re at ease. In most cases, you can lay down on a table and be covered by a board. When you undress before the massage and when you dress afterward, your massage therapist will leave the room. You can even get a massage when fully dressed in a chair. To find uncomfortable or stressed areas and assess how much pressure to apply, your massage therapist can conduct a touch test.

Your massage therapist can use oil or lotion to minimise pressure on your skin, depending on your preferences. If you’re allergic to any of the ingredients, let your massage therapist know.

Depending on the type of massage and how much time you have, a massage session will last anywhere from 10 to 90 minutes. You should feel calm and comfortable during and after your massage, regardless of the type of massage you choose. Maintain a natural breathing pattern during your massage.

Your massage therapist can play music or converse with you during the massage, but you may tell him or her if you prefer silence.

If a massage therapist is putting too much pressure, suggest a softer touch. You may experience a sensitive spot in a muscle that feels like a knot from time to time. When your massage therapist figures it out, it’s likely to be painful. However, if it becomes intolerable, speak up.