Why ‘No Pain, No Gain’ Is Terrible Massage Advice

In a world that often equates intensity with effectiveness, many believe massage should hurt to "work." As a holistic therapist, I’m here to challenge that dangerous myth: Pain during massage isn’t therapeutic — it’s counterproductive. Why would forcing through discomfort do more harm than good?

The Problem with Pain-Chasing

1. Your Muscles Don’t Respond to Punishment

   • When you inflict pain, the body’s natural response is to tighten in protection—the exact opposite of what massage aims to achieve.

   • Research shows gentle pressure (enough to create a "good hurt") releases tension more effectively than aggressive techniques.

2. Nerve Sensitivity Matters

   • Chronic pain conditions (like fibromyalgia) or stress can heighten nerve sensitivity. What feels "firm" to one person may cause lasting soreness for another.

   • Pain can indicate inflammation or microtrauma—not "knots breaking up."

3. The Adrenaline Trap

   • Enduring painful massage triggers adrenaline, which masks discomfort temporarily. This creates a false sense of relief while potentially causing underlying damage.

What Actually Helps Release Tension?

✔ Moderate Pressure – Enough to engage muscle fibres without triggering guarding reflexes.✔ Pacing – Allowing tissues time to soften naturally.✔ Breathwork – Encouraging relaxation to permit deeper release.✔ Hydration & Movement – Supporting the body’s natural recovery post-massage.

When Discomfort Crosses the Line

A productive sensation during massage might feel like:

• "This is intense but manageable"

• "I can breathe through it"

• "The tension is melting, not fighting back"

Harmful pain looks like:

• Gripping the table or holding your breath

• Soreness lasting >48 hours

• Bruising or sharp, shooting sensations

A Holistic Alternative

My approach prioritises:

• Listening to your body’s signals – You’re the expert on your pain threshold.

• Gradual progress – Consistency with moderate pressure beats one brutal session.

• Collaboration – We adjust in real-time based on your feedback.

The Bottom Line

Pain isn’t a badge of honour — it’s a warning sign. True therapeutic massage should leave you feeling renewed, not wrecked.

Experience the difference. Book with me