Massage Myths Busted

You might think you know all there is to know about massages. But some myths still seem to hang around, and we’ve probably heard them all. Here are a few massage myths busted we hear all the time. Again, busted!

Massage can spread cancer.

One of the biggest and possibly most enduring myths puts many people off massage that could really benefit from it. The myth is that having a full-body massage can spread cancer because it stimulates your lymphatic system, producing white blood cells to fight infections.

There is absolutely no evidence that cancer can be spread by massage, of course. Manipulating tissue in the way a massage therapist won’t make tumor cells move. Not only is having massage therapy non-harmful for cancer patients, but it’s also actually good for most of them.

Don’t get a massage if you’re pregnant.

Massage is great in pregnancy! And the best thing is that it’s perfectly safe in all trimesters and can be really beneficial. Having a massage absolutely won’t bring on early labor or a miscarriage. Even so, you should always tell your massage therapist if you are pregnant when you attend your massage session. It is important so she can adapt the techniques according to your needs.

Some essential oils aren’t recommended in the first or last trimesters, too. So when you book an aromatherapy massage, and you are pregnant, let the therapist know in advance. Other than that – lie back and enjoy being spoiled.

Massage therapy releases toxins.

We all know massage therapy has many benefits, but this myth is still repeated – sometimes even by therapists – it’s not true. Massage doesn’t detoxify your body at all. True toxins are mercury, lead, or botulinum toxin, which are dangerous to your body. And massage won’t help you if you need to eliminate any of those!  The truth is, your body is very efficient at filtering most waste products and unwanted substances out of your body using your lymphatic system, and ultimately by your kidneys and liver.

Massage could help your body expel the by-products of your muscles post-exercise, like lactic acid, but in truth, your body is perfectly capable of doing that all by itself.

Soreness is a sign of a good massage.

Soreness is no indication of how good your massage treatment has been. The amount of discomfort you feel the following day isn’t a badge of honor. If it’s your first ever massage (or first in a long time) or you’re not very active, you might be a little bit sore after a session, but although it’s nothing to worry about, it’s not compulsory, and if you don’t feel anything at all, that’s great! If you’re used to regular massage therapy, you’re unlikely to feel sore afterward.

You don’t need to drink extra water after the massage therapy.

This one is a definite myth! You really need to drink water after your massage, and that’s why we offer it to you. Drinking water after a massage will keep you hydrated and stop you from getting any soreness.  Drinking plenty of fluids also helps get your lymph fluid moving, which is one major plus point of a massage.

What are you waiting for? Call now or book a massage session and let’s bust all those massage therapy myths!

We also offer gift cards and a membership program.

Brilliant Massage & Skin

Burlington, Vermont