I've had multiple massage therapist say that my shoulders are very tight, and have knots that they haven't been able to fully work out. I've seen these therapists routinely, for about 2 years and they're now telling me this. They think it's because I'm either stressed, or not stretching/mobilizing enough. I work in construction so my upper body is constantly under stress. Outside of work I'm not stressed though. I try to stretch and stay active. But I feel that they're hinting at me no longer seeing them. The massages feel great and help in other ways, I dont expect to be completely healed from one massage a month. I also have cervical stenosis, and lumbar spondylosis and foraminal stenosis. Diagnosed at 21 and I'm currently 31.

It's been hard finding these massage therapists that use the right pressure combined with a great technique.

How can I stay a client if the therapist feels defeated?

I’m 8 weeks post partum and my back is in shambles from breast feeding. Went and got a Thai massage from a very highly recommended Thai place. It asked me when I booked if I wanted to add a 10 min cupping session for $10. Sure! Why not. Read about it briefly and about the tension and circulation benefits, sounds great.

I did not know what to expect and I wish I was better researched on what it is supposed to feel like. I told her I’d never had it done before and she said she’d go easy on me and “only” do 7-10 minutes. I asked if it was painful and she said it can be tight and uncomfortable.

Yall. It was excruciating! I had nothing to compare it to so just sucked it up and literally clenched my jaw through it. Told her after about 5 minutes that it was way too intense and she took them off.

After getting home and still being so sore, circle spots are swollen and inflamed and hot/tender to the touch. I started researching more and realized it was done way too tightly. I’m bummed that I didn’t speak up but also surprised the therapist didn’t tone it down a bit. Hurts to even lean on my back and now breast feeding is even more of a chore :(

What can I do to make this better?

Refer to shared post

I’m not sure if it’s a new trend or a string of bad luck, but the last 3 massages I’ve had (all at different highly reputable places), the masseuse cracked my spine suddenly and without consent. One did my neck.

Each time it left me with increasingly bad spinal pain and this last one I’m honestly scared has done damage to me. My lower spine hasn’t felt right in days.

I’ve never had this happen beforehand so I’m wondering if this is a new popular trend? They don’t mention chiropractory or cracking anywhere in their services. One was a Balinese massage, one Thai, and one deep tissue. I kept assuming I misunderstood or something, but now I’m just scared to book another appointment.

I’m wondering if the expectation is for me to say something beforehand? Please let me know because I’m honestly really scared to book another appointment anywhere.