There are many common and widely believed myths about chair massage therapy that need to be debunked. Sometimes associated with negative connotations or viewed as a mere “luxury” with no lasting value, individuals miss out on many of the benefits of on-site chair massage when they believe these myths.
While massage does relax muscles and feel wonderful, it also does so much more than that.
Read on to learn more about common myths associated with chair massage:
Myth 1: Massage therapy is only about moving muscles.
While massage does manipulate and loosen muscles, it can also relax areas of tissue connecting muscles, bones, and organs, otherwise known as fascia. It can also reduce swelling and make movement easier by moving fluids and loosening stiff joints throughout the body. Massage increases blood circulation, repairs muscle, and helps to move nutrients throughout the body, which speeds up the body’s healing process.
Myth 2: Massage benefits are merely temporary
While corporate chair massage does ease immediate aches and pains, it also offers long-term benefits. This is especially true for those working long hours within an office. Yes, muscles do have memory, and holding them in an awkward and uncomfortable position can cause long-term pain. Chair massage offers relaxation to continued strain of the upper back with specific relief of these stressed muscles: the trapezius, rhomboids, levator scapulae, etc. It also reduces muscle inflammation which leaves one feeling more comfortable for days afterward.
Myth 3: Massages are only effective if they’re painful
People often assume that a “good” massage is when the therapist “digs in” to the tense muscles that are the source of stress and discomfort. This should not be the case with ANY onsite chair massage! The professional chair massage therapist should “check in” with the client to inquire about his or her preferred pressure during the mobile chair massage. Too much “digging in” can sometimes cause even more aggravation and soreness, and can ultimately worsen the problem instead of actually relaxing the muscle. While muscle tension does typically need to be worked out (which can sometimes be initially uncomfortable), pain is not indicative of a more beneficial massage. Gentle and consistent massage techniques improve muscle tension and tightness, and does not require intense “digging in.”
Myth 4: A massage will make headaches worse.
Massage therapy is actually a very effective complementary treatment for migraines and headaches. By releasing tension in the head and applying pressure to certain trigger points in the neck and shoulders, pain signals are interrupted. Migraine symptoms are often believed to be induced by issues in the way that blood vessels function, and when massage reduces tension in these vessels that supply the brain, it creates a relaxed state that can increase blood flow and address the debilitating pain that so many people experience.
Myth 5: Massage will loosen muscles and inhibit exercise.
This is also false. While massage will ease tense muscles, massage is actually wonderful for the healing of muscles after working out and can greatly contribute to the muscle recovery that your body needs. If you work your body too strenuously, your body is going to react negatively, which could result in injury or pain. By easing pain and tension and improving body movement, massage is a very effective way to actually improve your exercise regimen.
While there are many myths floating around about massage, a lot of them are false and unjustified. Check out some of the previous blogs to read up on the many benefits of massage and try one for yourself – if it’s your first one, it certainly won’t be your last!
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Don’t let these myths stop you from experiencing a relaxing chair massage that will surely leave you rejuvenated and wanting more!
Escape. Experience. Enjoy.
