Does Thai Massage Hurt? What's Normal, and How to Say "Softer" in Thai
Updated
Thai massage has a reputation for being tough, and plenty of first-timers walk out saying it hurt. It can feel intense: the pressure is firm, therapists use elbows and knees, and the stretches go further than most people expect. But a good Thai massage should feel like strong pressure and a deep stretch, not like pain you are enduring.
What normal discomfort feels like
- A dull, "good hurt" ache when the therapist presses on tight muscles, which eases as they hold the pressure.
- Stretches that feel big, especially in the hips, hamstrings and lower back, but stop before your limit.
- Tender spots on the calves and along the thighs. These are common, because Thai massage works hard on the legs.
- On a foot massage, a few points under the foot that feel sharp for a moment. Reflexology does that, and you can ask for lighter pressure.
When to speak up or stop
- Sharp, stabbing or shooting pain.
- Numbness or tingling in your arms, hands or feet.
- Pain in a joint, as opposed to in a muscle.
- Pressure on your neck or a twist of your spine that makes you uneasy.
- Any pain on an old injury or a recent surgery scar.
Therapists in Bangkok are used to adjusting, and nobody will be offended. Asking for softer pressure is the most common request they hear.
Useful Thai words on the massage mat
- Bao bao (เบาๆ): softer, gently. The single most useful phrase.
- Nak nak (หนักๆ) or raeng raeng (แรงๆ): stronger.
- Jep (เจ็บ): it hurts.
- Por laew (พอแล้ว): that's enough.
- Sabai (สบาย): comfortable, feels good.
- Khop khun ka / krap (ขอบคุณค่ะ / ครับ): thank you.
A hand signal works too: a flat palm moving down means less pressure. Most therapists at tourist areas also understand "soft", "strong" and "no".
Sore the next day?
Feeling a bit sore for a day or two after your first Thai massage is common, similar to the day after a yoga class or a workout you are not used to. It usually fades quickly. People who bruise easily can occasionally get small bruises from deep pressure. If you are still in pain after a few days, or the pain is sharp rather than achy, see a doctor.
How to have a comfortable first Thai massage
- Tell the therapist before they start about injuries, back problems, high blood pressure, or if you are pregnant. Many shops ask, but not all.
- Ask for soft or medium pressure the first time. You can always ask for more.
- Avoid a heavy meal right before.
- Choose a reputable shop or chain with trained staff. Our list of the best massage in Bangkok is a good place to start.
- If you mainly want to relax, choose an oil or aromatherapy massage instead. They are much gentler.
Is Thai massage safe for everyone?
For most healthy adults, yes. If you have a medical condition, such as a recent injury, osteoporosis, a heart condition, blood clots or varicose veins, or if you are pregnant, check with your doctor first and tell the therapist. Some spas offer pregnancy massage done by staff trained for it.