Seeing a massage therapist can help you release tension from daily stress and help with pain due to an injury or medical condition. Many people are unfamiliar with this therapeutic option and may have some misconceptions about what the process involves. If you're interested in starting a massage regimen but have questions about the treatment, use the guide below to debunk common myths.

What Are Some Misconceptions About Massages?

1. All Massages Are Basically the Same

Many people believe that all massages are primarily the same treatment. However, there are many different massage types and modalities that fit different patients and situations.

Some popular massage techniques include a Swedish massage, which is a gentle type of massage to relax and relieve stress. A deep tissue massage uses deeper strokes to help with muscle damage from injuries or to improve range of motion. Trigger point massages focus on tight muscle fibers that can form from injuries and overuse. Many athletes utilize sports massages, which can be used to help heal an injury or to invigorate an athlete before an event.

2. You Should Feel Sore the Next Day 

Some people feel a little tender the day after they have a massage. This is normal because your muscles are being stretched and are actually getting a workout. However, soreness the next day doesn’t mean the massage worked any better. If you don’t feel any pain, you shouldn’t worry. Since various massages target different muscles, it is normal for patients to experience the aftereffects differently. 

3. Don’t Interrupt a Massage Therapist

A massage should be a relaxing and positive treatment, and you should not feel any pain. If you’re feeling anything other than pressure while you’re getting a massage, you should tell your massage therapist right away. They won’t be upset, as they want you to have the best experience possible. Let your massage therapist know about any tender areas or injuries before your session so that they can work around them.

4. The Effects of a Massage Are Only Temporary

While you’ll probably feel a lot better the day of or after a massage, your body may feel back to normal later on. However, during your session, your massage therapist is improving your body in ways you might not feel automatically. Having a regular massage can help relieve chronic pain and stiffness over time. It can also help with anxiety, headaches, insomnia, and digestive issues.

The massage therapists at The Miracle of Massage in Conyers, GA, can help relieve your back pain, neck pain, sciatica, and other ailments. The practice is headed by Brian Walters Sr., a trained pain relief Medical Massage therapist, and all of the staff operate with verified licenses. They boast a welcoming environment, and they open their doors to patients of all ages. Visit them online to book a massage, or call (678) 883-2873 for more information.