Good Pain Vs. Bad Pain
July 25, 2008 at 7:01 pm (Vs.)
Deep massage can be intense, uncomfortable, and sometimes even painful. But there is “good pain” and there is “bad pain.”
A “good pain” is one that you don’t want to end. In other words, even though the pressure may be uncomfortable and intense, there is also a positive feeling of “relief” from pain or “release” of tension. The pain is bearable enough that you are able to breathe comfortably and keep your muscles relaxed enough to allow the pressure into the tissue.
“Bad pain” is the kind that makes you cringe away from the pressure or hold your breath. There is no pleasure in addition to the pain. It is just out-right painful. And you might find yourself wishing that it would stop.
When working out knots and areas of chronic tension or pain, it is important to go for duration of pressure rather than depth of pressure. A longer, more comfortable “good pain” is more effective than a short burst of “bad pain.”
Pressure that is too deep can injure the tissue. You may end up more sore and with more inflammation than before the massage.
Rachel Beider said,
September 4, 2008 at 9:22 am
I always tell my clients that we’re aiming for “Delicious Pain”, not scary pain. This language usually gives the client a good understanding of what to expect, and allows them to vocalize if they need a change of pressure.
Rachel Beider, LMT
Owner, Massage Williamsburg
http://www.massagewilliamsburg.com
Joanna Tringali said,
February 26, 2010 at 3:24 pm
My suggestion is to think “ahhhh”, not “ouwww”. Communicate with your massage therapist. A moist heat pack before deep tissue is often helpful for deep work.
Joanna Tringali, NYS LMT
Owner of Calm: Massage and Skincare for Women
Brooklyn, NY