What Should You Not Do Before a Deep Tissue Massage? Preparation Tips from The Mark of Massage

At The Mark of Massage in Castle Rock, Colorado, deep tissue massage is a focused therapeutic service I’ve provided since 2004—using firm, slow pressure to reach deeper muscle layers, release chronic tension, break up adhesions, and support recovery from sports strains or daily stiffness. To get the most out of your session (and minimize discomfort during or after), proper preparation matters. Deep tissue works best when your muscles are pliable, hydrated, and your body is ready for intensity.

Here are the key things to avoid before your appointment—based on common professional guidelines and therapist recommendations:

1. Eating a Heavy or Large Meal

Avoid big, heavy meals right before (ideally 1–2 hours prior, or longer if possible). A full stomach can cause bloating, discomfort while lying on the table, or even nausea during the session as pressure is applied to the abdomen or back.

Instead: Opt for a light snack (e.g., fruit, nuts, or yogurt) if you’re hungry, or come on a relatively empty stomach to stay comfortable.

2. Consuming Alcohol or Caffeine

Skip alcohol, excessive caffeine (coffee, energy drinks), or other dehydrating substances in the hours leading up. Alcohol can thin blood (increasing bruising risk with firm pressure), impair relaxation, and dehydrate muscles, while caffeine might make you jittery or tense.

Instead: Stick to water or herbal tea—hydration is key!

3. Arriving Dehydrated

Don’t skimp on water the day of (or the day before). Dehydrated muscles are tighter and less pliable, making deep work feel more uncomfortable and potentially increasing post-massage soreness.

Instead: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help muscles respond better and aid in flushing metabolic waste during/after the session.

4. Applying Lotion, Oil, Sunscreen, or Topical Medications

Avoid slathering on heavy lotions, oils, sunscreen, or medicated creams right before. These can make skin slippery, interfere with the therapist’s grip (essential for precise deep pressure), or cause irritation.

Instead: Arrive with clean, dry skin. A quick shower beforehand (warm water loosens muscles) is great if possible.

5. Intense Exercise or Overexertion Right Before

Skip heavy workouts, long runs, or strenuous activity immediately prior. Tired or inflamed muscles from recent intense effort can make deep pressure feel overly painful or counterproductive.

Instead: Light stretching or a gentle warm-up (like yoga) can help loosen things up without fatigue.

6. Ignoring Health Concerns or Medications

Don’t withhold information about medications (e.g., blood thinners), conditions (e.g., clotting issues, osteoporosis), recent injuries, or pregnancy. Deep tissue involves firm pressure, so certain situations require modifications or avoidance.

Instead: Be fully transparent during intake—I always screen for safety and can adapt (or suggest gentler options) as needed. Consult your doctor first if unsure.

Bonus Prep Tips for the Best Experience

•  Arrive a few minutes early to relax and fill out any forms.

•  Use the restroom beforehand—comfort is key!

•  Wear loose, easy-to-remove clothing (you’ll undress to your comfort level under draping).

•  Communicate openly—tell me about problem areas so I can target them effectively.

These simple avoids help your body be in the best state for deep tissue work, leading to better results, less discomfort, and faster recovery. In my mobile/in-home sessions (within ~30 minutes of my home office at 216 Douglas Fir Ave, 80104) or private lower-level space (fully secluded, occasional family sounds from upstairs outside the room), preparation makes all the difference.

Ready for targeted relief? Book today—let’s make your session safe, effective, and just right for you!

Sources for Verification (based on 2025–2026 health, therapist, and wellness resources):

•  Healthline: Discuss health history; avoid if contraindications like blood clots or osteoporosis (https://www.healthline.com/health/deep-tissue-massage)

•  WebMD: Refrain from alcohol; hydrate and light stretch before (https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/is-deep-tissue-good-for-you)

•  Various therapist guides (e.g., Viva Day Spa, Breeze Academy, Oath & Grind): Avoid heavy meals, alcohol/caffeine, dehydration; clean skin, no heavy lotions (https://www.vivadayspa.com/news-tips/what-to-do-before-and-after-a-massage/; https://breeze.academy/blog/what-not-to-do-before-a-sports-massage/; https://www.oathandgrind.com/post/how-to-prepare-deep-tissue-massage)

Your comfort and results are my top priority—hope to see you soon at The Mark of Massage! 😊