Health

Is deep tissue massage dangerous?

As a rugby player I get quite a few sprains and aches. I would like to try deep tissue massage but I’ve heard mixed reports about it – can it do more harm than good?
S Winslow, Suffolk

It’s not harmful if you’re in the right hands. Most treatments come with some risks and deep tissue massage is no exception. But done properly it can be great for relieving muscle spasm and tension and aches and pains. You may feel uncomfortable during and just after the massage but this is nothing to worry about.

Although more serious problems related to deep tissue massage are rare, there have been reports that it can cause long-term discomfort, internal bruising, nerve damage and even bone fractures. Minimise any risk by making sure the therapist is properly trained and qualified. To find a suitable massage therapist contact the British Federation of Massage Therapists (01772 881063) or the British Massage Therapy Council (01865 774123).