Deep Tissue Massage can release soft tissue restrictions, increase circulation, promote body homeostasis, break-down scar tissue, etc. In such bodywork, the amount of pressure applied throughout the session is important. This applied pressure creates an “intensity” feeling for the client. Therapists need a way to gauge the amount of pressure applied for each client, and each client needs a way to provide feedback about how that pressure (or “intensity”) feels to them. This gauge of intensity (or pressure) not only varies from client to client, but can also vary in different areas of one client’s body.
To provide communication about how much pressure should be used between therapist and client, we will use an “Intensity Scale”. This is a verbal numeric scale between 1 to 10:
If the client rates the intensity of the massage as a “1”, this would mean that the client can barely feel the pressure. There is no discomfort. If the client rates the intensity of the massage as a “10”, this would mean that the client cannot tolerate this pressure, it is too much provoking an uncomfortable response beyond measure.
A customary goal in Deep Tissue Massage is to apply enough pressure where the client would reach a “7” on our Intensity Scale. Some clients will wish to work with a lower number or less pressure/less intensity. This is okay. Remember, our work may only be provided with client request/consent. We must never do anything that feels uncomfortable or unwanted by our client.
Some clients will want to work with greater intensity than a “7”. This is not recommended. Potential negative repercussions could occur with work that is too deep: inflammatory response, soreness, sensory overload, etc. If the client demands greater pressure/intensity than a therapist is comfortable applying, then the session should be terminated. Therapists must never do anything that makes them uncomfortable, or could cause harm to their client.
Suggested communication to teach how to use an Intensity Scale is as follows:
In your Massage Session today, I want to apply enough pressure for our work to be therapeutic, but not overwhelming. Throughout the session, I am going to use an Intensity Scale of 1 to 10 to check-in to see how my pressure feels to you. If the pressure is intolerable, then your number would be a 10. If you can barely feel the pressure, your number would be a 1. When I ask you what your number is, please let me know based upon this Intensity Scale what your number feels like to you. Any questions?
“Hedonic” Work. Many clients enjoy work that “hurts good”. This is okay by many (but not all) standards. Pressure and intensity must be individually determined by therapists and clients. Many therapists and clients will achieve a positive common goal; and, some therapists and clients will not be a good fit/match. Either outcome is okay. Just make sure to “Do No Harm”.
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