Drink plenty of water both prior to and after your appointment. Being well hydrated will make it less painful during and after your massage.  As a general rule, you should be drinking half of your body weight in ounces of water every day to stay sufficiently hydrated.  (for example: If you weigh 120 lbs you should be drinking 60 ounces of water each day). Being well hydrated assists your body in removing the wastes and toxins that often get stirred up during massage. 

In the hands of a truely skilled therapist a massage is transformed from relaxation to true therapy.  It has the ability to change the body structurally and functionally. Often reducing pain and increasing joint mobility and overall performance.  Therapeutic massage can serve as a supportive addition to both traditional and non traditional medical treatments.