Therapeutic touch or trouble? When massages might do more harm than good

 

It’s a must to choose a reputable massage establishment that puts the comfort and boundaries of their clients first and foremost.

What’s not to love about a massage? It’s calming, relaxes your muscles, and stimulates the lymphatic system (which keeps our body's fluid level in check and protects us against infection), and improves circulation and skin tone, among other health benefits. Whether you prefer yours amid the flicker of candles and the scent of fruits and flowers in a high-end spa, or the comforts of your own home from your suking masahista, a massage can help make you feel better in minutes. 

Or it can make things worse. A vigorous or deep tissue massage can result in bruising and pain in areas where there wasn’t any, or more serious conditions like the loss of sensation in the arm or leg, or even a full-on fracture. While rare, rhabdomyolysis is still a possibility: The breakdown of muscle tissue due to pressure from an intense massage.

“Massages are generally safe,” says Ma. Elena Lourdes R. Tan, MD from the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation of top hospital in the Philippines Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed). “Problems can arise during the application of excessive pressure in the wrong spots and for prolonged periods. This could reduce circulation or affect nerves, resulting in temporary or permanent damage.”

On the other hand, clients could also inadvertently turn a harmless session into a health risk for their therapist. “If you have a skin infection or a contagious respiratory illness like a cold, flu, tuberculosis, or COVID-19, you could easily infect others with close contact,” warns the doctor.

Still, you can make your next massage a pleasant and safe one when you observe these practical reminders from MakatiMed.

Dr. Tan shares that it’s a must to choose a reputable establishment that puts the comfort and boundaries of their clients first and foremost. “Ideally, you should get a massage in a place with properly trained therapists, as they are trained to adhere to professional standards.” Dr. Tan points out. “Of course, you have to check if the place is well-maintained, clean, and tidy at all times .”

The doctor also underlines disclosing any health conditions before you begin the session. “Are you pregnant? Do you have a fracture or think you do? Are you currently treating rashes or an open wound? Do you have an underlying health condition? If you do, then it’s not advisable for you to get a massage until cleared by a physician,” says Dr. Tan. “Feeling ill is also an indication to skip a massage and stay home.”

Spas and wellness centers often aim for ultimate relaxation with their quiet ambiance, dim lighting, and soothing music. However, your active participation is key to a truly beneficial massage. Dr. Tan encourages, “Communicate what you want. Tell your therapist how light or strong you want the pressure and stretching, and where you don’t want to be touched. Speak up when you feel uncomfortable or develop any pain.”

If your pains and discomfort are related to sports or an injury, the expert suggests consulting a physiatrist, then a physiotherapist. “In this case, a healthcare professional with a background in human anatomy might be a better choice than a massage therapist,” shares Dr. Tan. “In addition to helping you manage pain through exercise and manual therapy, a physiotherapist can improve your mobility.”

As wonderful as massages make you feel, they are, at best, a complementary treatment to either conventional medicine, physical therapy, or both. “A massage doesn’t cure diseases or injuries,” explains Dr. Tan. “If your pain prevails or returns even after a massage, please see a doctor immediately.”

For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and Twitter.