Expert: Rachel Beider, LMT - 11/5/2009

Question
This is the second time I went for a message (the firs time being two months ago) and the day after I feel sick with cold symptoms.  I know they say when you get a message that toxins are broken up and released into your body; is this the reason why I would be feeling sick.  I just think that it's strange that twice in a row going to get messaged that the day after I'm coming down with a cold or is it just dumb luck?

Answer
Nicole,

Thank you for your question. Circulatory massage, like Swedish or Deep Tissue, can help the improve the body's circulation - this means bringing fresh blood filled with nutrients and oxygen to the tissues while helping to flush out toxins. Physiologically, this is the same effect that a good workout has on the circulation.

The massage shouldn't make you feel ill or give you cold symptoms. Is it possible that you intuitively knew that your body didn't feel quite right, and this is why you chose to schedule massages then? Sometimes we can feel when we have a cold coming on, even before symptoms start, and if anything a massage and some rest can be quite helpful in preventing a full blown cold.

Lastly make sure that you're going to a reputable therapist in a clean and sanitary practice. Sheets and face cradle covers should be changed between every session. Your therapist should always wash their hands between sessions.

I hope you've found this helpful. Feel better soon!

Warmly,
Rachel Beider, LMT and Doula
Owner, Massage Williamsburg
www.massagewilliamsburg.com