How to Choose a Massage Therapist

Finding the right massage therapist can be a daunting endeavor, especially if you're new to massage. However, it doesn't have to be intimidating. There are two important aspects to evaluate--qualifications and comfort level. When you keep these elements in mind, you'll soon be on your way to blissful relaxation through the power of massage.

Qualifications

There's a lot more to being a massage therapist than just knowing how to give a nice back rub. To make sure you have an enjoyable, safe experience, you should only receive massage therapy from certified, licensed professionals. This ensures that the massage therapist who is handling your treatment knows how to safely manipulate your muscles without harming you as well as making certain that the facility is clean and run in accordance with state regulations.

There are a variety of different massage techniques, so make certain that the professional you choose is qualified to provide the type of massage you're looking for. Most relaxation and de-stressing treatments fall under the category of Swedish massage, which involves a combination of kneading, tapping, stroking, and otherwise manipulating your muscles to relieve tension. However, there are other types of massage that can be used to treat aches and pains, athletic injuries and more. If you're interested in specialized sports massage, pregnancy massage, or deep-tissue massage, make sure you ask about relevant certifications before you decide on a massage therapist.

Comfort

While certifications and licensing are vital to finding a good masseuse, they aren't everything. Just because a massage therapist is qualified to provide you with the deep-tissue massage you need, doesn't mean that they're necessarily the right person for the job. To fully enjoy your massage experience, you also need to find a massage therapist that you're personally and physically comfortable with. Obviously, you're not going to be able to relax and enjoy the treatment if you're uncomfortable with the individual who is providing it, so shop around! If you're a woman who prefers a female massage therapist for your personal comfort, don't be afraid to speak up. Your comfort is of the utmost importance so be certain to evaluate the more subjective realm of personal comfort as well as qualifications before you select your massage professional.

The best way to find a great massage therapy center in your area is to ask your friends. Most will be more than willing to make a recommendation about a positive massage experience they've had in the past. If you're looking for sports massage or deep-tissue massage to help an injury heal, inquire at your doctor's office. They may frequently work with a particular massage therapist or center. If you're unable to get a recommendation, don't sweat it: the Internet can provide numerous listings for reputable massage therapists in your area.