Find Male Massage Therapists near you

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FAQs:

What is a Massage?

Massage is the manipulation of the body's soft tissues. Massage techniques are commonly applied with hands, fingers, elbows, knees, forearms, feet, or a device. The purpose of massage is generally for the treatment of body stress or pain. In European countries, a person professionally trained to give massages is traditionally known as a masseur (male) or a masseuse (female). In the United States, these individuals are often referred to as massage therapists, because they must be certified and licensed as "licensed massage therapists". In some provinces of Canada, they are called “Registered massage therapists”, as they are regulated health professionals.

What is Massage Therapy Used for?

Massage therapy is used to help manage a health condition or enhance wellness. It involves manipulating the soft tissues of the body. Massage has been practiced in most cultures, both Eastern and Western, throughout human history, and was one of the earliest tools that people used to try to relieve pain.

How Often Should You Get a Massage?

A massage is a great tool for relieving stress, improving mood, and increasing the overall quality of life and productivity. You’ll often feel better for a full week before you’ll start to notice the need for a return visit unless you are dealing with pain or injury. Your tension headaches will disappear, your energy will increase, and your mental health will improve. Is there such a thing as too many massages when you have benefits like this? Actually, you can get massaged too frequently. Once a week is the most you should go unless you are dealing with pain or high-intensity sports. Between you and your therapist, you’ll be able to determine the best frequency because your body’s response is a large part of this determination. You should go at least once per month, but as often as twice per week in severe pain situations. The longer you wait though, the more often you’ll start the process of loosening up your muscles because they tense up if you don’t go often enough. Try different techniques, such as deep tissue massage and stress massage depending on your needs. When your body starts to feel stiff and sore, it’s telling you that it’s time for a massage again, but the type of massage you may need could vary depending on your body’s needs.

How Long Do The Benefits of Massage Last?

Everyone has a different body type making it difficult to predict how long the benefits of massage will last. However, there are some external factors that could help us determine how long the benefits will last. The benefits last differently for different people depending on the life they live and the type of massage they get. For example, if you live a stressful and hectic life, then the benefits won’t last long as compared to someone who lives a relatively stress-free life. On average, the benefits of massage can last up to a month or as little as 1 day. On average, most people notice the benefits for about a week. This is one of the reasons it’s recommended that you get a massage on a regular basis. If you are trying to treat a medical condition through massage, then regular massage can go a long way. A study revealed that for patients with osteoarthritis, regular massages can not only reduce pain but also aid in its treatment.

How Do Massages Make You Feel Better?

This is because your brain releases feel-good chemicals and pain diminishes. The therapist’s touch causes an immediate reaction in your brain. As soon as your skin’s nerve cells feel pressure, they signal the brain to release feel-good chemicals called endorphins, which boost your mood and give you a natural high. As a result, stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline begin to decrease and the overall effect is one of euphoria and bliss. If you have real aches or pains, the morphine-like effect from the endorphins will help diminish them by blocking pain signals from the brain. And if your muscles are sore after a rigorous workout, a good rubdown will actually help them heal faster. Researchers found that massage decreases the inflammation caused by exercise and increases the occurrence of cell repair.

How Effective is Massage?

One Australian study found that a 10-minute muscle massage after a workout could reduce soreness by 30%. A separate review study on massage found that levels of the stress hormone cortisol dropped 31% following a rubdown, while levels of feel-good hormones like dopamine and serotonin increased roughly 30%.

What Should I Wear to a Massage?

It is best to wear comfortable, loose-fitted clothing to your treatment. I tend to wear my gym clothing, as it’s easy to slip on and off and is super comfortable. It’s best not to wear anything tight-fitted as when you put your clothes back on, there may still be some residual massage oil on your skin which could transfer onto your clothing and make you uncomfortable after your treatment. Another way to prepare for a massage is to tie up your hair or put it into a bun out of the way. This will stop your hair from going oily and won’t get in the therapist’s way.

How Much Does a Massage Cost?

Prices vary greatly for massages in the United States. A 60-minute massage is usually $60 to $150. Most therapists will expect a 15 to 20 percent tip on top of this. However, some places don’t accept gratuity.

These types of massages may cost more than a basic massage:

- aromatherapy

- hot stone

- prenatal

- sports

- therapeutic, like cranial sacral and myofascial release

You can check out a massage school in your area or find a massage therapist who works at home if you want to find massages at a more reasonable cost. Insurance sometimes covers massage therapy if you can show it’s being used to treat a medical condition. Sometimes, insurance companies will cover massage therapy if it’s part of chiropractic care.

Does Insurance Cover Massage Therapy?

With many people turning to massage therapy as a medical treatment, it seems that health insurance should cover massages. However, not all policies do. For example, Medicare does not cover massage therapy, so you will likely be responsible for 100% of the costs if you seek this treatment. Even if your health insurance provides coverage, there may still be limitations. The definition of massage therapy may vary, depending on the insurer. That definition of massage, and the reason you’re getting one, will likely determine whether insurance will cover it. If massage treatment isn’t covered in your policy, be sure to ask about alternative options. It’s also a good idea to discuss them with your doctor.  If you are eligible for services from osteopaths, chiropractors, occupational therapists, and physical therapists who also use massage techniques, these visits may be covered by your insurance.

There is no standard requirement for insurance companies to reimburse expenses for massage. Massage therapy may be covered:

1. When the massage is considered medically necessary and/or fits the definition and criteria of coverage given by the insurer.

2. If the massage fits into the criteria of a “habilitative or habilitation” treatment, it may be covered by health insurance as an essential health benefit. Talk with your doctor and your insurance company to be sure. The best way to find out whether massage therapy is covered is by asking your insurance company directly.

How Much Do You Tip a Massage Therapist?

In general, the 20% rule applies to tipping your massage therapist. So, if you’re wondering how much to tip for a $100 massage, you’d want to tip $20. If you’re considering how much to tip for a 60-minute massage (that costs $100) – you’d still tip $20. However, generosity is generally very appreciated. You’re really paying for your health and wellness, so (tipping) becomes a bigger conversation. As you’re considering how much to tip massage therapists, it’s also good to keep in mind the vast range of rates that different massage therapists might charge. For instance, a 90-minute massage at a high-end spa might be $300, whereas the same service at a popular massage chain might be $150. In that scenario, the massage therapist at the chain would get $30 less of a tip.

Myths about Male Massage Therapists

One of the unfortunate realities of the massage field is that men are often discriminated against when seeking out this career. Assumptions are often made about them by clients of all genders. Oftentimes, these assumptions are based on perception rather than truth. To help combat some of this discrimination, we’re debunking a few of the most common myths surrounding male massage therapists.

1. Difference In Strength: “A massage from a man will be different than one from a woman.”

This myth goes hand in hand with the assumption that men will be more aggressive than women. Male massage therapists aren’t any more aggressive than female massage therapists. In fact, each of our male massage therapists makes it a point to talk about each client’s needs and goals just as much as our female massage therapists. Every type of massage can be performed by both men and women, so the experience isn’t different based on gender.

2. Specialized Training: “Male massage therapists are more likely to be trained in sports or therapeutic massage than female massage therapists.”

This isn’t true either. Male massage therapists can be trained in a variety of techniques just like female massage therapists can. It all depends on their interests and the individual training they have undergone. The best thing you can do is talk to your massage therapist about the massage modalities you’re interested in trying. If you’re unsure, you can discuss what you’re looking to get out of your massage and they can help you choose a technique that would best suit your needs.

3. Body Shaming: “Male massage therapists are more likely to notice things like body hair if I forgot to shave my legs.”

No matter what their gender is, your massage therapist will not care if you shaved or not. They see countless clients every day who arrive with all sorts of personal preferences and varying hair lengths. In seeing so many different types of people, they are accustomed to all types of personal hygiene preferences. In addition to this, massage therapists understand that their clients lead busy lives and have more important things to worry about than shaving right before their appointment. They know that in real life your time is very limited. So whether you show up without ever having shaved before or if you show up clean-shaven, it will not affect your experience. Nor will working with a male massage therapist compared to a female massage therapist.

4. Sexual Orientation Assumptions: “If I choose a male massage therapist, will they think I’m gay? Are they more likely to be attracted to me?”

A common problem in the massage therapy industry is that male therapists are perceived as sexual threats. The subject of their sexual orientation is also frequently raised even though it has nothing to do with their experiences as massage therapists or the training they have undergone in learning specific massage modalities. These assumptions have affected male massage therapists’ careers for a long time.

Massage for Treatment of Some Disorders

Research indicates that massage and myotherapy are effective in managing:

- subacute/chronic low back pain

- delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS)

- anxiety

- stress

- soft tissue injuries

- high blood pressure

- insomnia.

They can also be effectively used to support people with:

- a chronic disease

- a life-threatening illness such as cancer

Reasons to Seek Massage Therapy

Massage therapy is generally thought of as a way to pamper yourself and relax after a busy week. However, the scope of treatment that massage offers is much greater than just a luxury pampering session! There are numerous other benefits to massage therapy – here are a few of the top reasons people seek massage.

1. Relaxation

One of the most common reasons for massage is to relax; for most people who have a jam-packed, busy schedule, massage is a great way to take some time for themselves to de-stress and take a break. Not only is it the perfect way to unwind, but incorporating massage into your busy lifestyle is incredibly important for your overall mental and physical health.

2. Health and Structure

Many people book a massage appointment to treat injuries or aches and pains. Whether you are an athlete, a person who suffers from arthritis, or someone who has a stiff neck from working at a computer, massage is commonly sought after as treatment. There are specific massage techniques that can help a multitude of injuries and medical conditions. There are also clients who stick to a strictly healthy lifestyle that are in need of a way to detox and energize their bodies. The massage will allow blocked energy to flow freely through the body and stimulate the body into detoxifying toxins and wastes.

3. Recharge, Rejuvenate, and Re-energize

Another typical reason a person seeks massage is that they are just exhausted. Mentally, physically, due to illness, stress, or just daily life, it doesn’t matter – they are completely drained of energy and are searching for a way to renew themselves. Massage allows the client to rebuild their natural energy and boost them back up to normal.

4. Connection and Reconnection

Massage offers a very personal and close experience with another human, which is what many people crave. In today’s world of technology, human connection is seriously lacking. Massage is all about touch, and touch is the fastest way to connect with others.

5. A New You

It is no secret that after a massage, you leave feeling refreshed, reinvigorated, and ready to tackle anything. Many clients are seeking this sort of mental and physical change from treatment. Massage transforms the person’s physical being and mental state, which will spill over into a transformation for the rest of their life.

Different Types of Massage

Massage is the practice of rubbing and kneading the body using the hands. During a massage, a trained massage therapist will apply gentle or strong pressure to the muscles and joints of the body to ease pain and tension. Read on to learn about the different types of massage and which type might be right for you.

Swedish Massage

Swedish massage is a gentle full-body massage that’s great for people who are new to massage, want to release tension, and desire gentle touch. It can help release muscle knots, and it’s also a good choice for when you want to fully relax during a massage.

Hot Stone Massage

The hot stone massage is best for people who have muscle pain and tension or who simply want to relax. This type of therapeutic massage is similar to a Swedish massage, only the massage therapist uses heated stones in lieu of or in addition to their hands.

Aromatherapy Massage

Aromatherapy massages are best for people who enjoy the scent and want to have an emotional healing component to their massage. This type of massage can help boost your mood, reduce stress and anxiety, reduce symptoms of depression, relieve muscle tension, and relieve pain. Aromatherapy massages combine soft, gentle pressure with the use of essential oils. Your massage therapist will usually decide which essential oils to use, but you can let them know if you have a preference. Essential oils are diluted before being applied to the skin.

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage uses more pressure than Swedish massage. It’s a good option if you have muscle problems, such as soreness, injury, imbalance, tightness, and chronic muscle pain. The massage will last 60 to 90 minutes. While deep tissue may be more intense, you shouldn’t feel any pain or soreness.

Sports Massage

Sports massage is a good option if you have a repetitive use injury to a muscle, such as what you may get from playing a sport. It’s also a good option if you’re prone to injuries because it can be used to help prevent them. A sports massage can be done as a full-body massage or on specific parts of the body that need the most attention. Deep pressure may be alternated with soothing strokes, depending on your needs.

Trigger Point Massage

Trigger point massage is best suited for people who have injuries, chronic pain, or a specific issue or condition. Sometimes, areas of tightness in the muscle tissues, known as trigger points, can cause pain in other parts of the body. By focusing on relieving trigger points, this type of massage can reduce pain. This type of massage will usually last 60 to 90 minutes.

Reflexology

Reflexology uses gentle to firm pressure on different pressure points of the feet, hands, and ears. It’s best for people who are looking to relax or restore their natural energy levels. It’s also a good option for those who aren’t comfortable being touched on the entire body.

Shiatsu Massage

Shiatsu massage is best for people who want to feel relaxed and relieve stress, pain, and tension. It’s a Japanese type of massage that promotes emotional and physical calm and relaxation, helps relieve pain, may relieve headaches, reduces muscle tension, improves sleep and fatigue, and may improve mood. Shiatsu massages typically last 60 to 90 minutes.

Thai Massage

Thai massage is best for people who want a more active form of massage and want to reduce and relieve pain and stress. It can also help improve flexibility, circulation, and energy levels. A Thai massage lasts 60 to 90 minutes.

Prenatal Massage

Prenatal massage can be a safe way for women to get a massage during pregnancy. It can help reduce pregnancy body aches, reduce stress, and ease muscle tension. The massage will usually last 45 to 60 minutes.

Couples Massage

A couples massage is a massage that you do with your partner, friend, or family member in the same room. It brings all the benefits of a regular massage plus the chance to enjoy a relaxing experience with a partner.

Chair Massage

A chair massage is best for people who want a quick massage that focuses on the neck, shoulders, and back. A chair massage can be a comfortable introduction to massage if you’ve never had one before. Chair massage also helps relieve stress and promote relaxation. This type of massage uses light to medium pressure.

Lymphatic Drainage Massage

Lymphatic drainage massage, also known as manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), is a type of gentle massage that encourages the lymph fluids to circulate through the body. The lymphatic system helps remove toxins, and improved circulation can help with a number of conditions, including lymphedema, fibromyalgia, edema, skin disorders, fatigue, insomnia, stress, digestive problems, arthritis, and migraine.

Cranial Sacral Therapy

Cranial sacral therapy or craniosacral massage is a type of bodywork that helps release compression in the bones of the head, low back, and spine. The idea behind cranial sacral therapy is that gentle manipulation of the bones in the skull, spine, and pelvis, can help the flow of cerebrospinal fluid in the central nervous system. It can also produce deeply relaxing results.

Abhyanga Oil Massage

Abhyanga is a type of oil massage from the system of Ayurvedic medicine. The oil is warmed and gently massaged all over the body. This type of massage focuses on nourishing the skin rather than deeply massaging the muscles.

Myofascial Release Therapy

Myofascial release therapy is another type of bodywork that involves releasing stiffness in the fascia, the connective tissue system that contains each muscle in the body. Your therapist will massage and stretch any areas that feel tense with light pressure. Specific conditions that may benefit from myofascial therapy include myofascial pain syndrome, headaches, and venous insufficiency. These massages usually last 60 minutes or longer.

Benefits of Massage

One of the immediate benefits of massage is a feeling of deep relaxation and calm. This occurs because massage prompts the release of endorphins – the brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) that produce feelings of well-being. Levels of stress hormones, such as adrenalin, cortisol, and norepinephrine, are also reduced. Studies indicate that high levels of stress hormones impair the immune system.

Some of the physical benefits of massage and myotherapy include:

- reduced muscle tension

- improved circulation

- stimulation of the lymphatic system

- reduction of stress hormones

- relaxation

- increased joint mobility and flexibility

- improved skin tone

- improved recovery of soft tissue injuries

- heightened mental alertness

- reduced anxiety and depression

What Happens During a Massage

The therapist will leave the room and allow you to undress to your level of comfort and get snug underneath the cover, face down on the massage table. The therapist will always knock before they enter, and leave plenty of time for you to get comfortable and prepare for the massage, so try not to rush. Rushing will increase stress levels and your muscles will tense, so it is important to try to relax as much as possible before your massage.

The therapist will uncover the sections of your body they are massaging, leaving the rest covered, so you are warm and comfortable. A good massage therapist will never leave you feeling exposed. The therapist may ask you if the pressure of your massage is alright. Do not feel worried about telling the therapist that it is too much or too little pressure, as every person is different and a good massage therapist will not take offense and will try to get the massage perfect for you.

Most people like to close their eyes and relax, but if you prefer to chat or have any questions to ask then feel free to ask them. It’s all about your relaxation and you should do whatever makes you feel most comfortable.

What Happens After a Massage

Your massage therapist will let you know the massage is complete (or gently wake you if you were lucky enough to nod off!) and then leave the room to allow you to redress. Try not to sit or stand up too quickly, as you may feel dizzy or lightheaded after a massage, especially if the room is dark and warm. Sit up slowly, and take your time when you stand up and dress.

Make sure to drink lots of water after your massage as this should help with the dizziness if you have any, and flush out any toxins released during the massage.

Most people feel extremely relaxed. You may feel the freedom from long-term aches and pains and increased energy which may last for days afterward. If you have gone for a deep tissue massage, you may feel slightly tender to start with, but after your muscles get used to the relaxed state, you should feel much better.

What Not to Do After a Massage Therapy

Here is a checklist of the things you should not do after getting massage therapy. Doing these things after a massage cannot prevent you from getting the maximum benefits from massage therapy. We have listed ten (10) things that you should not do after a massage.

1. Not Drinking Enough Water

After massage therapy, decreasing your water intake after the massage therapy is not ideal. Massage therapy can help to detoxify and rehydrates your skin. You must drink enough water to assist the hydration and detoxification process.

2. Take A Shower Immediately

By taking a shower immediately after your massage therapy session, you will wash off the massage oils. These massage oils are not yet completely absorbed by the skin cells. It is best to shower after an hour of your massage therapy session. Let the message oil sit and absorbed your skin cells within an hour.

3. Taking a Hot Shower

After your massage therapy, we know that taking a hot shower is tempting. However, if you are suffering from a muscle injury, it will increase inflammation. You have to skip first taking a hot shower. It is better to use cold water for pain relief. Moreover, it is ideal to use warm water when taking a shower. This can help to relax your body.

4. Eating A Large Meal

After a massage, you may feel hungry. This happens due to the increase of blood circulation, which maximizes body systems function including, our digestive system. And, by eating a large meal, you will end up feeling bloated, sluggish, or lethargic. It is best to eat a light and healthy snack to feel more energized after a massage.

5. Drinking Coffee

After relaxing massage therapy, you may be in the mood to take a great cup of coffee. However, drinking coffee after a massage is not a good idea. You cannot maximize the detoxification and rehydration process. You need to wait a few hours after your message before drinking a cup of coffee. This can help you avoid dehydration. Moreover, it is best to drink your coffee the next day and rehydrate yourself by drinking enough water.

6. Drinking Alcohol

Drinking alcoholic beverages cannot encourage the hydration and detox process. It can cause dehydration. You have to avoid drinking alcohol for a day. It is best to drink enough water to promote hydration and to help flush toxins. Moreover, by avoiding alcohol, you can prevent next-day soreness.

7. Doing Strenuous Exercises or Activities

After a relaxing massage, you may feel energized to go to a gym and do some strenuous exercise. However, this can lead to muscle soreness. Moreover, doing some strenuous activities can injure your muscles. Avoid doing some strenuous activities after your massage therapy. It is best for your body and mind to relax. You can do some light activities – watch some movies or read some good books – chill and relax! Moreover, after a massage is the best time to hibernate. You can nap for a while.

8. Stressing Yourself Out

One of the main benefits of massage therapy is helping you manage your stress. It aims to reduce your stress. However, not avoiding things that cause you stress can make you feel anxious, which cannot help your body and mind to continue the relaxation mode. After massage therapy, you should create a plan for the day. You have to make enough ‘me-time’ or self-care time. Moreover, you have to schedule your day as a low-stress one. For example, make sure not to have any other meetings or errands after a massage. Take a rest!

9. Forget to Stretch

You may feel that your body is so relaxed after a massage. It also helps to loosen your stiff muscles and knots. However, if you forget to stretch after a massage therapy session, you can’t prolong this effect. After a relaxing massage session, make sure that before you get off the massage table, do some moderate stretches within a minute or two. You can do some lunges, shoulder, and torso rotations, and toe touches. You may also continue doing some moderate stretches at home.

10. Not Doing the Homework Assigned by the Therapist

If you forget to follow the advice of a massage therapist, you will decrease the benefits that you can get from massage therapy. Follow the advice and instructions of your massage therapist to get the most out of your massage therapy session. If your therapist assigned some stretching, stretching, or some movement-based exercises – don’t forget to do them! You have to do your homework to gain the long-lasting effects of massage.

Massage Therapist Duties and Responsibilities

A massage therapist is responsible for treating clients through soft tissue manipulation while maintaining a safe and relaxing experience. The therapist should be good at perceiving clients' wishes and needs through spoken language, body language, and other cues and modifying their treatments accordingly. They usually report to the owner or manager of the business.

Here are some typical duties and responsibilities of a massage therapist.

- Provide 30-60 minute massages to clients by appointment

- Guide clients through service offerings and determine which massages would benefit them most

- Take a detailed client history and note any health conditions

- Evaluate clients to determine painful or stressed areas of the body

- Advise clients on stretching, strengthening, or relaxation methods

- Suggest future massage appointments and regimes to clients

- Listen to clients during appointments and adjust technique as they desire

How to Find a Massage Therapist

Like choosing other healthcare professionals, it's important to be a conscious consumer when selecting a massage therapist. Ask your primary care provider or someone else you trust to recommend a reputable business or therapist.

Don't be afraid to ask a potential massage therapist questions such as:

- Are you licensed, certified, or registered?

- What are your training and experience?

- How many massage therapy sessions do you think I'll need?

- What's the cost, and is it covered by health insurance?

A skilled therapist has a vast toolbox of techniques that can be incorporated based on your needs, and he or she will respond and modify these techniques based on your feedback.

Massage therapy is safe and effective for people of all ages. It's not only a feel-good way to indulge or pamper yourself. It's a powerful tool to help you take charge of your health and well-being, whether you have a specific health condition or are looking for a stress reliever.

Sources:

Wikipedia

NIH

Healthline

US News

Alpha School of Massage

Loving Life

Well Stated

TIME

Tay Medispa

DIMS

Better Health Channel

Vinings Massage

Evergreen

Mayo Clinic

The Balance

Indeed

 

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 (in the United States) immediately.