No. The saying “No pain, no gain!” does not apply in massage therapy. Muscle tightness is best addressed when you are relaxed and breathing fully. Some of the most effective relief from pain or tight muscles can come from a very gentle touch. When too much pressure is used, the body has a tendency to tense up to defend and guard against the painful feeling, which is contrary to the therapeutic intention of the massage. This is why it is very important to communicate clearly during a massage if you feel like your therapist is working too deeply. During deep tissue massage you can experience some pain or discomfort when the therapist is working to break up adhesions in the muscles. Breathe deeply and exhale fully and always make sure that you are with in your comfort range, otherwise, please speak up, you will not offend your therapist.