Remedial massage is a popular treatment for individuals dealing with muscular pain, tension, or restricted movement. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing chronic discomfort, or aiming to improve your posture and mobility, remedial massage offers targeted relief through hands-on techniques.
But if you’ve never had one before, you might be wondering: “Will it hurt?”
It’s a fair question, especially if you’ve heard stories about deep pressure or sore muscles afterwards.
The truth is, remedial massage does not need to be painful to be effective. In this blog, we’ll explain what to expect during your treatment, how it typically feels, and why communication with your therapist is key to a comfortable and beneficial experience.
What is remedial massage?
Remedial massage is a clinical, therapeutic form of massage designed to assess and treat soft tissue injuries, muscular dysfunction, and chronic tension. Unlike relaxation massage, which focuses on general wellbeing, remedial massage is outcome-driven, aiming to:
- Restore function
- Reduce pain
- Support healing
It’s commonly used by allied health professionals to complement rehabilitation programs.
Techniques may include:
- Deep tissue massage
- Trigger point therapy
- Myofascial release
- Stretching and joint mobilisation
These methods are tailored to your condition and goals, whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing chronic pain, or improving posture.
Is remedial massage painful?
This is one of the most common concerns for first-time clients. While some techniques involve firm pressure, particularly when addressing deep-seated tension or trigger points, the discomfort should be manageable and short-lived.
Comfort is prioritised
At reputable clinics, including Lifecare, therapists prioritise your comfort. They work with your body, not against it, to find the therapeutic “sweet spot” where benefit meets tolerable pressure. If anything feels too intense, you are encouraged to speak up. The therapist will adjust their technique or pressure accordingly.
Myth: “no pain, no gain”
This outdated belief has no place in modern remedial massage. While mild soreness can occur during or after treatment, especially when working on tight or inflamed areas, pain is not a requirement for healing.
In fact, excessive discomfort can cause muscle guarding, which reduces the effectiveness of the treatment.
What to expect during your treatment
1. Initial assessment
Your session begins with a comprehensive assessment. The therapist will ask about your medical history, current symptoms, lifestyle, and physical activity levels. They may assess your posture, range of motion, and muscle imbalances to identify the root cause of your discomfort.
2. Tailored treatment plan
Based on your assessment, the therapist will develop a personalised treatment plan. This may focus on specific muscle groups rather than a full-body massage. Techniques and pressure will depend on your condition, goals, and preferences.
3. Massage techniques
During the massage, you may experience:
- Firm pressure on tight muscles or trigger points
- Stretching to improve flexibility
- Joint mobilisation to enhance movement
- Myofascial release to reduce fascial restrictions
Some areas may feel tender, particularly if they’re inflamed or chronically tight. However, the therapist will check in regularly to ensure you’re comfortable.
Additional therapies
Some therapists, like those at Lifecare, may also offer:
- Myofascial dry needling
- Cupping therapy
These can be used to complement manual techniques for deeper, targeted relief.
4. Aftercare advice
After treatment, you might feel slightly sore or fatigued, similar to how you’d feel after a workout. This usually resolves within 24–48 hours.
Your therapist may recommend:
- Gentle stretching
- Staying hydrated
- Rest
- Follow-up exercises
These steps help support recovery and prolong the benefits of your massage.
Who can benefit from remedial massage?
Remedial massage is suitable for a wide range of individuals, including:
- Office workers with neck, shoulder, or lower back tension
- Athletes recovering from training or injury
- Individuals with chronic pain (e.g. arthritis, fibromyalgia)
- Post-surgical patients managing scar tissue or mobility issues
- Anyone with postural imbalances or restricted movement
If discomfort is affecting your daily life, remedial massage may help restore function and improve your quality of life.
How it works with physiotherapy
Remedial massage is often used alongside physiotherapy. While physiotherapists focus on diagnosing and treating structural issues, remedial massage therapists target soft tissue to relieve tension and improve function.
Integrated care for better outcomes
For example, if you’re undergoing rehabilitation for a shoulder injury, your physiotherapist may prescribe exercises while your massage therapist works on reducing muscle tightness and improving circulation. Together, this holistic approach can lead to a faster and more complete recovery.
Choosing the right therapist
To ensure a positive experience, look for a therapist who:
- Is qualified and registered with a professional association
- Has experience with your specific condition
- Communicates clearly and listens to your concerns
- Offers a collaborative, client-centred approach
Many private health insurance plans in Australia cover remedial massage under extras policies. For NDIS participants, remedial massage may also be included in your care plan.
Final thoughts
Remedial massage is a personalised therapy designed to support pain relief, healing, and improved movement. While some techniques may cause mild discomfort, treatment should never be unbearably painful.
With clear communication and a skilled therapist, you can expect a session that is both therapeutic and comfortable.
If you’re experiencing muscular tension, injury, or chronic pain, remedial massage could be the missing piece in your recovery journey. Speak with your physiotherapist or book a session with a qualified remedial massage therapist at your closest Lifecare clinic to experience the benefits for yourself.
Written by Clauido Pirrone, Remedial Massage Therapist – Lifecare Mornington
Claudio Pirrone is an experienced Remedial Massage Therapist with over 10 years of experience at Lifecare Mornington. He treats a wide range of clients, from adolescent athletes to elderly retirees, and has a special interest in using cupping and dry needling to manage chronic pain and sports-related injuries.