Self-Care for Massage Therapists: Preventing Pain with Massage and Exercise

Believe it or not, massage therapists need regular massages too. In the busy schedule of caring for others, it’s all too easy to neglect self-care. I often find myself coming home after a long day of work wishing for nothing more than a therapeutic massage —especially for my sore arms, shoulders, back, and tired hands. Like any physically demanding job, massage therapy puts us at risk for painful muscle imbalances and overuse injuries. That’s why implementing a self-care routine that includes medical massage and corrective exercises can be a game-changer for preventing pain and injury.

Why Do Massage Therapists Experience Pain?

During a typical massage, therapists use significant strength in their hands, forearms, and shoulders. These repetitive motions tend to overwork certain muscle groups while underutilizing others, leading to imbalances that can cause pain or injury. For example, overworked shoulder muscles often create imbalances with the chest muscles, which can result in neck aches and even headaches.

The Paradox of Serving

One of the reasons I love massage is my passion for serving people. Seeing someone walk into my office stiff and in pain, and then leave an hour later feeling better and moving with ease, is what makes my work so fulfilling. However, when it comes to taking the time to care for myself—like getting a massage—it suddenly feels much harder. I’d rather serve others than spend time being served!

As I continue in my practice, I’ve come to realize just how essential it is to take care of my own body so that I can better serve my clients. Working with my massage therapist friends has further highlighted the importance of self-care for those in our profession. Taking time for ourselves allows us to live better lives and provide even better service to our clients. It may feel strange to invest time and money into our own care, but a life free from pain and tension should be for everyone—not just our clients!

How Can a Combination of Massage and Exercise Help?

While a targeted massage for the hands, forearms, and shoulders can provide much-needed relief, therapists experience far more significant improvement when massage is combined with corrective exercises.

With my massage therapist friends and clients here in Lincoln, Nebraska, I often begin with a focused upper-body massage to release tension and ease soreness. Then, I recommend simple exercises to address muscle imbalances and break the cycle of tension and overuse. This combination not only alleviates current discomfort but also helps prevent future injuries—allowing therapists to serve their clients pain-free.

If you’re a massage therapist in Lincoln, Nebraska looking to take better care of your body so you can keep taking great care of your clients, book an appointment with me today! Let’s work together to help you feel stronger, healthier, and ready to thrive.

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