Massage Myths debunked

Today I am going to debunk some massage myths that get me a little frustrated when I hear them.

Let's jump straight in. 

1. Massage isn’t good unless it’s deep

Hopefully you read my blog about muscle guarding.

Many people believe that a massage only works if it’s deep — but “deep” is a very subjective personal experience.

What feels deep to one person may feel light or too much to another.

Open communication is essential.

A good therapist checks in to make sure the pressure is effective and safe.

If the body reacts with tension or pain that’s actually counterproductive, because healing can’t happen in that state; it's a protective mechanism called muscle guarding, and can lead to painful spasm.

It’s also important to clarify what you mean by “deep.”

Are you asking for firmer pressure, more focused work, or attention to a painful area? Having that shared understanding helps create realistic expectations and better outcomes.

2. Massage isn’t safe during the first trimester of pregnancy

If a pregnancy is healthy and low-risk, massage can be safely enjoyed in any trimester — including the first.

However, extra care and communication are important.

During the intake process, I will ask about relevant health conditions.

With this information, I can tailor treatment safely for both parent and baby.

3. Relaxation massage isn’t therapeutic

People often think of massage as either relaxation or remedial: one for stress relief, the other for fixing pain. But that’s a false divide!Relaxation massage has powerful therapeutic effects.Gentle touch helps calm the nervous system, shifting the body into a parasympathetic (“rest and digest”) state — where recovery, repair, and healing naturally occur.

4. Kids and teens don’t need massage

It’s a common misconception that young people don’t need or benefit from massage.

In reality, massage can support people of all ages.

For children and teenagers, the right type of massage can promote healthy muscle development, improve flexibility, ease growing pains, and support emotional well-being.

For kids with special needs, it can also help with sensory regulation, coordination, and comfort.

Many cultures massage children from infancy onwards.

I started receiving regular massage as an early teen when I started training many hours in the week for ballet.

5. Massage isn’t as effective as physiotherapy

Some believe massage is just for relaxation — and that you need a physio to actually fix something.

In truth, massage therapy can directly address pain, tension, restricted movement, and postural issues.

Each modality has its strengths, and they often complement each other beautifully.

By understanding how massage works — on its own or alongside other therapies — clients can make informed choices that best support their recovery and performance.

6. It hurts here, so the problem must be here

Pain is often a messenger, but not always from where you expect.

While pain can start at the site of an injury, over time the body compensates — creating new patterns of tension and imbalance elsewhere.

That’s why we need to look beyond the sore spot to find and treat the underlying cause. Regular massage and corrective movement can help restore balance and prevent these patterns from becoming chronic.