Blog of the Month: Why I Don’t Push for Google Reviews (And Why It Matters)

While reviews can be helpful, they aren’t always a reliable measure of quality or experience, especially when some may be fake.

Lately, I’ve noticed some issues with Google removing positive reviews from my business. At the same time, I’ve observed some competitors seemingly using AI-generated reviews to boost their profiles. Seeing a business jump from under 100 reviews one week to nearly 700 the next is a clear red flag. While reviews can be helpful, they aren’t always a reliable measure of quality or experience, especially when some may be fake.

Massage is a deeply personal experience. No two clients experience a session in exactly the same way. What one person loves, another may not enjoy at all. This is why I believe authentic, long-term feedback matters far more than quantity. Unfortunately, it can be difficult even to get legitimate reviews. Over the past year, Google has removed at least 10 to 15 reviews from long-term clients from my business ad. Reviews that were genuine removed without notice.

The rise of AI-generated content has made this problem worse. Some businesses use AI and manipulative advertising strategies to artificially boost reviews and block out legitimate care providers. While technology can be a tool for good, it is also being misused in ways that impact honest, professional massage therapists.

But there's a darker side to this issue. Illicit massage businesses use AI to put out fake reviews, and this is something we all as a community need to be aware of. As massage therapists, it’s important to keep potential clients informed about what is happening so they can make informed choices.

Another growing concern is how AI and Google can bury legitimate business listings. About nine months ago, my business consistently appeared at the top of local search results for massage therapy. Now, it’s become increasingly difficult to find my listing, even when searching “massage therapist nearby” from inside my own office. Meanwhile, illicit massage businesses across the street and several others appear at the top of the search results. This shift highlights how fake AI-generated listings and manipulated reviews can push down legitimate practitioners, making it difficult for clients to find real, qualified therapists.

I want to be transparent. I do use AI to help with grammar or rewriting older blog content for clarity, but the ideas and expertise are always my own. It can take days to write, research and/or re-write a article. AI does help cut down on that work. Updating older content ensures my blogs reflect current medical research and my evolving skill set. However, AI also comes with risks. Copying content, creating fake reviews, and other unethical practices are real concerns.

Ultimately, my approach is simple. I focus on providing high-quality care, building long-term client relationships, and relying on word-of-mouth and medical referrals rather than chasing reviews. Massage is personal and unique to each individual, and no algorithm can replace that human connection.

When looking for a massage therapist, take your time, ask questions, and trust your own experience. Don’t rely solely on numbers or reviews, they don’t always tell the full story.

With care and support,

Suzan (Susan) Walker LMT

Massage therapy is not a substitution for medical treatment. The massage therapist cannot diagnose, treat or prevent disease. The therapist can only recommend products and services. Please consult a medical physician for further treatment.​

Copyright © 2007-2027. Connective Integration Massage Therapy by Miss Suzan Walker, LMT. All rights reserved. Suzan (Susan) Walker TX LIC#MT104431