Can Thai Massage Be Harmful? A Comprehensive Guide

Thai massage is a popular form of massage therapy that has been practiced for centuries. It is based on the principles of yoga and incorporates stretching, acupressure, and reflexology. While it can be beneficial for many people, it is not appropriate for everyone. People with certain health conditions, such as cancer or cardiovascular disease, those who are pregnant, and those who have just undergone surgery should not receive a Thai massage, as the technique could pose health risks.

In this article, we will discuss the possible adverse effects of traditional Thai massage and how to ensure that your experience is safe and enjoyable. The question of whether traditional Thai massage could cause any problems to the cardiovascular system has been raised. A recent report by Buttagat et al. found that traditional Thai massage “was associated with significant increases in heart rate variability (increased frequency, total power and high frequency).” Therefore, there is no doubt that massage could alter some heart function and may be problematic in patients with underlying cardiovascular disease. Almost any massage can be harmful if administered improperly. It is important that the massage be in the hands of a certified therapist.

Thai massage incorporates some elaborate and complex movements, and doing it wrong could end up harming the recipient. Following a recent episode of simultaneous acute heart attack and traditional Thai massage in a patient, the question of the possible adverse effects of traditional Thai massage is being extensively discussed. A randomized trial examined the effects of Thai and Swedish massages on people experiencing fatigue. A more standard table massage also offers that possibility, but to a lesser extent, since a Thai massage manipulates the body more vigorously. Because of its close association with yoga, stretches performed in a traditional Thai massage could improve the mobility of the body's joints. Most likely, a factor contributing to a sense of well-being after massage is the increase in serotonin and the reduction in cortisol found in people who have received massages.

If someone wants to focus on a specific area of their body, they can choose to work with a massage therapist to schedule regular sessions until they are satisfied with the results. Until then, there are many qualified and licensed traditional Thai massage therapists here in the United States, although it is considerably more expensive. Like traditional body massage, it involves realigning the Chi pathways and eliminating obstructions; foot stimulation affects different organs and systems. During most of the massages I received on my trip to Thailand, in fact, I wore loose-fitting clothing provided by the spa, instead of going completely naked, as I do during deep tissue massages. Like many other forms of massage therapy, traditional Thai massage can help your body and mind rest. Some research suggests that after intense exercise, massage may help relieve late-onset muscle pain (DOMS) and improve muscle performance. Komparaj was Buda's personal physician, which makes sense because Thai massage is closely related to Buddhism, explains Lapatrada Pittayakorn, manager of the Nitra Spa & Wellness at 137 Pillars Suites & Residences Bangkok.

Many people believe that the health benefits of Thai massage include reducing stress, increasing energy and improving sports performance. In conclusion, while traditional Thai massage can be beneficial for many people, it is important to remember that it can also be harmful if administered improperly. It is important to ensure that you are working with a certified therapist who understands how to perform this type of massage safely. Additionally, those with certain health conditions should avoid receiving a Thai massage as it could pose health risks.

Tiffany Greenhalgh
Tiffany Greenhalgh

Freelance zombie buff. Award-winning travel enthusiast. Alcohol ninja. Extreme coffee junkie. Certified social media lover.