The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Massage—Answered by Millstone Massage in Athens, GA

Whether you’re new to massage therapy or a seasoned client, it’s natural to have questions—about pressure, techniques, benefits, what to expect, and how to get the most out of your sessions. At Millstone Massage in Athens, GA, licensed massage therapist Mark Coyne, LMT, hears many of the same questions from first-time and returning clients alike. Below, he answers the most common ones to help you feel comfortable, informed, and ready to make the most of your bodywork experience.

1. What type of massage is right for me?

Choosing the right massage depends on your goal, not your experience level.

If you’re dealing with:

• Chronic pain or specific problem areas: Therapeutic or deep tissue massage may be best. These sessions focus on relieving tension in targeted areas and improving mobility.

• High stress, anxiety, or trouble sleeping: Swedish or relaxation massage can help calm the nervous system and release muscle tension more gently.

• Athletic recovery, injury prevention, or improved performance: Sports massage or mobility-focused work can keep your body functioning at its best.

• Neck and shoulder tightness from desk work: A postural or upper-body corrective massage can help reset chronically overworked muscles.

Mark often blends techniques from multiple modalities to match your goals—so you don’t need to know exactly what you want beforehand. Just share what you’re feeling, and he’ll guide you.

2. Does deep tissue massage have to hurt to be effective?

A common misconception is that deep tissue means “as much pressure as possible.”

Mark emphasizes that deep tissue is about depth, not pain. The goal is to reach deeper layers of muscle and fascia without triggering the body’s pain defense system, which can actually make muscles tighten more.

You may experience intense but manageable pressure, often described as “good pain,” but you should always be able to breathe normally and relax into it. Communication is essential—Mark adjusts pressure continually based on your feedback.

3. How often should I get a massage?

The right frequency varies depending on your lifestyle, stress levels, and physical condition:

• For chronic pain or injury recovery: Weekly or bi-weekly sessions until symptoms improve.

• For maintenance and general wellness: Every 3–4 weeks can help prevent tension from building back up.

• For athletes in training cycles: Weekly or event-specific sessions may be appropriate.

Consistency matters more than intensity. Regular massage supports nervous system balance, reduces inflammation, and helps prevent recurring issues.

4. What should I do before and after a massage?

Before your session:

• Hydrate normally (no need to overdo it).

• Eat lightly—avoid heavy meals right before your appointment.

• Arrive a few minutes early so you can settle your mind and body.

After your session:

• Drink water to support your body’s natural recovery processes.

• Give your muscles gentle movement throughout the day.

• If you experience mild soreness, a warm shower or light stretching can help.

Mark notes that the post-massage “floaty feeling” is normal—it’s simply your nervous system shifting into a relaxed, balanced state.

5. Will I need to fully undress?

Only if you want to. Massage is always done within your comfort level:

• Many clients undress to their level of comfort, typically down to underwear.

• You are professionally draped at all times, with only the area being worked on exposed.

• If you prefer to stay fully clothed, that’s completely fine—Mark can adjust techniques as needed.

Comfort and trust are central to a good massage experience.

6. Can massage help with stress, anxiety, and sleep?

Absolutely. Massage doesn’t just manipulate muscles—it resets the nervous system. Even a single session can:

• lower stress hormone levels

• increase serotonin and dopamine

• reduce physical symptoms of anxiety

• slow the heart rate and deepen breathing

• promote restorative sleep

Many clients report that massage becomes a key part of their stress-management and mental wellness routine.

7. Is massage safe if I’m injured or have a medical condition?

In most cases, yes—but communication is essential. Mark will review your health history, listen to your concerns, and determine the safest approach.

Massage can be helpful for:

• chronic tension

• postural imbalance

• headaches or TMJ pain

• lower back issues

• sports injuries

• limited range of motion

• general stress and fatigue

However, certain conditions—such as acute inflammation, open wounds, infections, and some cardiovascular issues—may require modifications or clearance from a medical provider.

If in doubt, ask. Mark prioritizes safety over everything else.

8. What sets Millstone Massage apart?

Clients often describe sessions with Mark as grounded, intuitive, and deeply restorative. His approach combines:

• skilled therapeutic technique

• attention to structural balance

• a calm, patient pace

• a focus on client comfort and communication

• a holistic understanding of how stress, posture, and lifestyle affect the body

At Millstone Massage, the goal isn’t just temporary relief—it’s lasting improvement in how you feel and move.

Ready to book your session?

If you’re in or around Athens, GA, Millstone Massage offers a welcoming space for recovery, relaxation, and whole-body wellness. Whether you’re managing chronic tension, navigating stress, or simply seeking time to reset, Mark Coyne, LMT, is here to support your health and healing. Book appointments at www.millstonemassage.com or call or text 706-424-2193.