By Valerie Carsey
Massage therapy offers more than just relaxation—it supports pain relief, emotional wellness, and overall health. Yet many people avoid getting massage care due to personal hesitations or concerns. Know that your session can and should be tailored to your specific needs. Here are some ways that a massage can be adapted to meet your specific needs.
Consent and Boundaries Matter Most
You always have the right to request that certain areas of your body not be touched—your comfort and safety are the top priorities. Your session is for your benefit, not just what the therapist thinks is necessary.
Though it is important to note, that the area you are asking to avoid may be the cause of your pain. For example, if you are experiencing low back pain, a therapist may suggest working the glutes, as hip tension often contributes or is even the cause of that discomfort, and by avoiding this area you may still experience the pain after the session.
However, even with avoiding recommended areas, your massage can still be an enjoyable and rewarding experience.
Aversion to Touch Doesn’t Mean Massage Is Not for You
If you are uncomfortable with being touched, you are not alone—and you still have options. People who are touch-averse often find “rubbing” techniques difficult to tolerate. However, gentle, non-invasive “holding” approaches like CranioSacral Therapy or Acupressure can be calming and therapeutic.
One client described CranioSacral work as feeling like a series of tiny, comforting hugs. These techniques can help you ease into touch-based care at your own pace, and as you adjust to your therapist’s touch, you may choose to explore more traditional massage methods later—only if and when you feel ready.
Can’t Lie on Your Stomach? No Problem
If lying face-down is uncomfortable or not possible, massage can still be highly effective. A therapist can work in face-up, side-lying, or semi-reclined positions. I offer all these options in my office, along with massage chair sessions.
For those with breast sensitivity in the face-down position, I have a breast cushion available. If your therapist doesn’t offer one, a rolled towel placed between or underneath the breasts can also provide comfort.
Ticklish Feet or Sensitive Areas? We Can Work Around That
If you are afraid of “kicking your therapist,” you are not alone. Know that ticklishness does not mean massage is off-limits. Wearing socks or covering the feet with the sheet while working can help reduce sensitivity. Starting touch at the ankles helps the nervous system anticipate contact, reducing the “startle” response.
Using broad hand techniques—like pressing or squeezing instead of poking—also helps minimize ticklishness. For example, when working under the shoulder blade, some clients find it ticklish in a face-down position but fine when lying face-up. Repositioning really can make all the difference.
Hair Extensions or Braids? Scalp Work Can Still Happen
Having braids or extensions does not mean your head has to be skipped. While traditional scalp massage might not be ideal, CranioSacral holds offer a gentle, non-invasive way to work with the head. These techniques feel soothing and do not require fingers to dig into the hair.
Don’t Like Oil in Your Hair? Just Say So
While some clients enjoy oil in their hair, others—like myself—find it hard to wash out and unpleasant. (I once heard a story that made me shudder of a therapist that would oil her hands up before moving into the hair to work the scalp.) If you don’t want oil or lotion used on your scalp, simply inform your therapist. If working the scalp is a part of your treatment plan, your therapist can simply start your massage with your head before applying any lotion or oil. In my practice, I always wipe my hands before moving to the head. Whatever your preference is, your therapist should accommodate you.
Why Massage Is Worth Adapting For
According to East West College of the Healing Arts in Portland, OR:
“One in five people suffer from pain each year. One in ten experience chronic pain. The annual cost of treating pain exceeds that of cancer, heart disease, and diabetes combined. 43% of Americans receiving massage reported doing so for conditions like pain management, injury rehab, migraine control, or overall wellness. 88% agree that massage is effective in reducing pain.”
Don’t let discomfort or uncertainty keep you from getting the care you deserve.
The Many Benefits of Massage
- Deep relaxation
- Improved circulation
- Better sleep
- Boosted mood and reduced depression
- Strengthened immune system
- Reduced muscle stiffness, inflammation, and pain
- Increased flexibility
The Benefits of Manual Lymphatic Drainage
- Deep relaxation and pain relief
- Reduced pressure on nerve tissues
- Encourages the removal of pain-causing chemicals from tissues
- Stimulates lymph flow and immune function
- Helps reduce swelling and fibrosis
The Benefits of CranioSacral Therapy
- Emotional centering and relaxation
- Releases restrictions in connective (fascial) tissues
- Supports the neuro-lymphatic (glymphatic) system
- Improves central nervous system health
- Helps process and release physical or emotional trauma that has manifested in the tissues
In Summary
Massage therapy is flexible, adaptable, and deeply personal. If you have been hesitant to schedule a session because of physical discomfort, emotional concerns, or sensory sensitivity—know that your massage can be tailored just for you. The most important thing is open communication. With the right approach, massage can be a safe, empowering, and healing experience for everyone.
Edited by AI
Valerie Carsey, LLC 