One of the most common questions newcomers have about massage is: "Will massage hurt?"

The important thing to remember is that, as the client, you're in control of the pressure. The massage shouldn't hurt if you don't want it to.

If you want a purely relaxing massage, get a Swedish massage. Most massage therapists will ask at the beginning of the massage what kind of pressure you like, and you can indicate then that you want a relatively light touch. However, some people enjoy the more intense pressure of a deep tissue massage. And if a massage therapist is trying to undo long-term problems and chronic pain, there might be some discomfort. Remember you are in control of the pressure. Speak up if the sensation is too intense.