Massage Myths Busted

Massage therapy has come a long way from being seen as an indulgence or a vacation add-on. Today, it's more widely recognized as a tool for supporting both physical and mental health. But even with its growing popularity, massage is still surrounded by a lot of misconceptions. Let’s bust some of the most common massage myths with the help of real therapist insight.

Myth #1: “All massage therapists and techniques are the same.”

Busted: There are dozens of massage techniques, and therapists often specialize in particular approaches—everything from Swedish and deep tissue to sports massage, trigger point therapy, and Thai massage.

Each style has a different purpose, and not every therapist is trained in every technique. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, dealing with chronic tension, or just need to relax, it’s important to find a therapist whose skills match your goals.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions about your therapist’s training and specialties before your session. It’s your body, and your session should be tailored to your needs.

Myth #2: “Massage has to hurt to be effective.”

Busted: While deep tissue or trigger point work may involve some discomfort as knots and tight areas are addressed, a skilled therapist will always check in and adjust pressure as needed.

You're always in control during your massage, and clear communication is key. A good therapist wants you to leave feeling better, not bruised.

If something doesn’t feel right in your body, feel empowered to speak up. It’s your session, and it should work with your body, not against it.

Myth #3: “You always have to undress for a massage.”

Busted: While some types of massages are easier to perform at different levels of undress, you only ever need to undress to your comfort level.

• Swedish, hot stone, cupping, or lomi lomi massage: These styles use oil or lotion and long, gliding strokes that work best on bare skin.

• Sports massage, Thai massage, and some deep tissue techniques: These styles can often be done fully clothed or with minimal undressing.

  
  

As Wellspring Massage owner Nicole says, “Undress to your comfort level, and I can work within that boundary.”

Massage is meant to be a safe, supportive experience. You should never feel pressured to undress in a way that makes you uncomfortable.

Myth #4: “Massage is just a relaxing treat.”

Busted: Massage is meant to feel good, but it also does good for your body in the long run.

Regular massage therapy has been shown to support chronic pain management, stress reduction and mental clarity, better sleep and sustained energy levels, and faster recovery from injury or physical exertion.

Consistent massage is a powerful tool for managing your overall wellness, and a good therapist can help design a routine that fits your budget and health goals.

Whether you're new to massage or a seasoned regular, it's worth knowing the facts behind the myths. With the right therapist and approach, massage is a safe, accessible, and effective part of your self-care routine.