Gluteal Work

A good massage begins with communication.

If English is your second language, or if your massage therapist uses terminology that you do not understand, please let them know. Your therapist should be willing to explain what they mean and make sure you are comfortable with what is being discussed before proceeding.

You should never feel embarrassed about asking a question. In fact, asking questions is one of the best ways to make sure you have a positive massage experience.

If something does not feel right during your session, speak up while you are still in the treatment room. Your therapist cannot correct something they do not know is bothering you.

For example:

• The pressure is too light: Tell your therapist when you first notice that you would prefer more pressure.
• The pressure is too intense: Let your therapist know immediately. More pressure is not necessarily better.
• You are uncomfortable with gluteal work: Tell your therapist before or during the session. Your therapist can explain why the area may be relevant to your treatment and can work around it if you prefer.
• You do not want oil in your hair: Ask your therapist to cover your hair, skip the scalp, or work on your scalp with clean, oil-free hands.
• You do not understand the term “draping”: Draping refers to the sheet and/or blanket used to maintain your privacy and modesty during a massage. Proper draping is a standard part of professional massage practice.
• You do not understand the word “emollient”: An emollient is simply a product such as massage oil, lotion, cream, or gel that helps the therapist work smoothly over the skin.
• You do not feel comfortable with your therapist: You have the right to stop the session. A professional therapist will understand that sometimes a client and therapist simply are not a good fit.

Your comfort and sense of safety should always be taken seriously.

Why Might Your Therapist Work on Your Glutes?

This is particularly important if you are seeking massage for lower-back discomfort.

Many people are surprised when a massage therapist recommends working on the gluteal muscles. Some clients may initially wonder, “Why are you working there? My back is what hurts.”

The answer is that the body does not always hurt exactly where the source of muscular tension or restriction is located.

The gluteal muscles are large, powerful muscles that connect functionally with the pelvis, hips, and lower extremities. They also work closely with the muscles and connective tissues surrounding the lower back and pelvis.

For that reason, a therapist may determine that addressing the gluteal region is an appropriate part of a massage intended to address muscular tension associated with the lower back and hips.

The area near the upper portion of the gluteal muscles is also close to the sacroiliac (SI) region, where the sacrum and pelvis meet. A massage therapist may work with the surrounding muscles and soft tissues in this region when appropriate.

This does not mean that every person with lower-back pain needs gluteal massage. Your therapist should consider your individual circumstances, obtain your consent, and explain what they are doing.

You Are Always in Control

Gluteal massage is a legitimate component of professional massage therapy and is included in the training of massage therapists. However, professional does not mean that you have to agree to every technique.

If your therapist recommends gluteal work, it is perfectly reasonable to ask:

“Why are you working there?”

A good therapist should be able to explain the clinical or therapeutic reasoning in language you understand.

You can also say:

“I'm comfortable with that.”

Or:

“I'd rather you skip that area.”

Both are perfectly acceptable.

The purpose of explaining the connection between the lower back, pelvis, hips, and gluteal muscles is not to pressure anyone into receiving gluteal work. It is to help clients understand why a therapist may recommend addressing an area that does not initially seem connected to their complaint.

Sometimes, treating the area around the problem can be just as important as treating the area where you feel the discomfort.

Speak Up During Your Massage

Please do not wait until the massage is over to mention something that could have been corrected during the session.

If you want more pressure, less pressure, a different technique, another position, more draping, less oil, or for an area to be skipped, say something.

Your therapist's job is not to guess what you are thinking. Your job is not to silently tolerate something that makes you uncomfortable.

Massage therapy works best as a partnership between the client and therapist.

The goal is simple: you should leave feeling that your time, comfort, privacy, and individual needs were respected.