In short, NO! Absolutely not! Many massage therapists have a question on their intake form that asks if you want to avoid specific areas during the massage. Some women check pectoral muscles (aka pecs) because they worry that it involves breast massage, and they don’t see the benefit of massage to these muscles. While the pectoral (major and minor) muscles do extend under the tissue of the breasts, they also connect to your collar bone, shoulder blade, sternum,and upper arm. Pectoral muscle massage involves those portions of the pectoral muscles that are not under breast tissue. Women’s breasts remain fully draped and covered at all times during a professional massage. Why even bother with pectoral massage? Pectoral minor muscles attach to the shoulder blade and ribs, and help move shoulders down andforward. They also help with breathing. With modern lifestyles dominated by computers, smartphones, and driving, our shoulders spend way too much time in a hunched position. Pectoral muscles often become tightened and short. At the same time, muscles of the upper back, neck, and shoulders are also tight and stiff from this position. Pectoral and back/shoulder muscles balance each other. So if you get a massage that relieves tension in the shoulder and upper back but doesn’t address the pectoral muscles you’ve only addressed part of the problem. Want to relieve tension in your pecs on your own? Try one of these stretches. And simple forward and backward shoulder rolls are great for loosening up shoulders and associated muscles (including pectorals). A further note: A few professional massage therapists offer breast massage for special medical conditions. It is a very specialized practice, and not a part of typical massage. A separate release form is often used. |
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CategoriesGeneral MassageMassage Questions On-Site Massage Stress Relief |
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