Thai Massage vs. Regular Massage: What to Expect & Key Differences

Thai massage uses movement, stretching, and deep pressure to release tension and improve flexibility.

I LOVE getting Thai massages.  However, in talking to my patients, I am finding that many people have never had this type of massage and don’t understand the differences.  Moreover, when they do try it, they are frequently not prepared for the stark differences between a Thai and traditional massage.  So, I decided to write a post to detail the differences, should you ever desire to try it out.

You Will Be Clothed

If you’re in the U.S., you will typically be given a pair of oversized scrubs.  If you are in Thailand, you may or may not be given anything to change into.  So what you’re wearing may be what you’re massaged in.  Dresses are perhaps, not your best option.

You Will Be Moved

Meaning, you will be pushed and pulled, twisted and turned, side bent, flexed and extended.  So if you are afraid of movement or of someone having the control to move your body, this may not be the massage for you.

There is pressure 

The pressure comes in many forms:  sometimes they are standing on your back (usually with a weight assistive device so it’s not their full weight), sometimes it’s pressure from their feet or hands.  Frequently, it’s on areas of blood flow.  So, they may occlude areas of blood flow for a few seconds and then release in order to bring better blood flow to the region. 

There is no “rub down” in a traditional Thai massage 

There is no oil, there are no hot stones.  Think of it more like foam rolling vs. massage.  That is probably the best description I can think of.  Meaning, your Thai masseuse is the “foam roller”. 

You may or may not have a face cradle for your head.  It depends on the place.  Some places may require you to rotate your head to the side.  Ask if you are concerned.

You may be on a table, or you may be on a “mattress” on the floor.  Again, different places have different set ups. 

They will try to crack your back 

If this freaks you out, then probably skip this type of massage.  It’s part and parcel.  It is done through different twists and backbends.  Again, relaxing enough to allow your body to be moved is a necessity for an enjoyable Thai massage. 

There is assistive stretching 

These are literal stretches that your Thai masseuse will add pressure onto.  The pressure will depend on you and your flexibility.  These do not have to look like Instagram worthy stretches.  If you’re tight and you’re put into a straight leg forward bend – bend your knees.  Help yourself out.  The massage police are not going to come and haul you into the station.  

You do have choices of pressure.  You can always tell them you would like more or less pressure. 

What I tell my patients is that, if you’ve never had a Thai massage before, the best time to try is when you’re feeling good.  Maybe you’re sore from a workout but you’re not in pain.  If you have a true injury that is limiting movement or making you fearful, it is not a great time to start Thai massage.  Once you’ve had it done and understand the process, then you can judge whether it’s right for you in times of injury. 

I live in northern Virginia and frequent:  Malee Thai Massage.  I’ve been going for many years.  The masseuses are from Thailand/Laos and do an amazing job.  They also have an option for a mix of traditional and Thai massage.  A really great option, especially if you can spring for a 90-minute session.  PS: There is a holiday sale going on right now!

👉Have questions about whether Thai massage vs. physical therapy or acupuncture is right for you? Book a evaluation and I’ll help you choose the best treatment for your needs.