I’ll be the first to admit it: when I had a frozen shoulder, I went straight to a chiropractor instead of a physical therapist. Big mistake. It taught me that not all body pain needs a crack or a deep tissue fix. I ended up having to bear the pain even longer during the busiest season of the year! And now that we’re facing another holiday rush, it’s tempting to book a massage to melt away the stress. But before you do, here’s a timely reminder from Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed) on how to make sure your massage session is safe, effective, and actually relaxing.
Whether you’re a spa regular or a fan of your suking masahista, these tips from MakatiMed’s Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation are worth keeping in mind:
1. Not all massages are created equal. Some can do more harm than good
Massages are generally safe, but they’re not magic. A deep or overly vigorous massage can cause bruising, nerve damage, or even fractures. In rare cases, it can lead to rhabdomyolysis — a serious condition where muscle breakdown affects your heart and kidneys.
“Massages are generally safe,” says Ma. Elena Lourdes R. Tan, MD from MakatiMed. “Problems can arise during the application of excessive pressure in the wrong spots and for prolonged periods. This could reduce circulation or affect nerves, resulting in temporary or permanent damage.”
So if you’re feeling sore in places you weren’t before, or if your limbs feel numb after a session, that’s your cue to pause and reassess.
2. If you’re sick, skip the spa for everyone’s sake!
Massages involve close contact, and that means germs can spread easily. If you’re nursing a cold, flu, or any contagious illness, it’s best to stay home and recover first.
“If you have a skin infection or a contagious respiratory illness like a cold, flu, tuberculosis, or COVID-19, you could easily infect others with close contact,” warns Dr. Tan. Your therapist’s health matters too. Let’s not turn self-care into a health hazard.
3. Choose your massage spot wisely
A clean, well-maintained space with trained therapists isn’t just a luxury — it’s a must. Your comfort, boundaries, and safety should be top priority.
“Ideally, you should get a massage in a place with properly trained therapists, as they are trained to adhere to professional standards,” says Dr. Tan. “Of course, you have to check if the place is well-maintained, clean, and tidy at all times.”
So before you book, do a quick vibe check: is the space clean? Are the therapists certified? Do they ask about your health before starting? If not, then consider that a red flag.
4. Speak up! Your body, your rules
Even in the most zen spa setting, communication is key. Don’t be shy to say what feels good, what doesn’t, and where you’d rather not be touched.
“Communicate what you want. Tell your therapist how light or strong you want the pressure and stretching, and where you don’t want to be touched. Speak up when you feel uncomfortable or develop any pain,” encourages Dr. Tan. Massages should feel empowering, not painful or awkward. Your comfort matters.
5. Know when to call a pro and not just a masseuse
If your pain is due to an injury or a sports-related issue, a massage might not be enough. You may need a physiatrist or a physical therapist who understands anatomy and can guide you through recovery.
“In this case, a healthcare professional with a background in human anatomy might be a better choice than a massage therapist,” shares Dr. Tan. “In addition to helping you manage pain through exercise and manual therapy, a physiotherapist can improve your mobility.”
And remember: massages are complementary, not curative. If the pain keeps coming back, it’s time to see a doctor. So before you book that post-party massage or squeeze in a spa day between errands, take a moment to check in with your body and these reminders. Because self-care should feel good, not risky.
For more info, contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook.
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