Whether you're new to massage or have had similar experiences in the past, this information is crucial. A woman is enveloped in deep emotions, her hand gently cradling her head, as she stands against a dark backdrop. Draped in delicate purple fabric, her expression reveals a quiet struggle and poignant vulnerability. What Is a Healing Crisis? A healing crisis, also called a Herxheimer Reaction , occurs when the body releases metabolic waste faster than it can eliminate it. When this happens, the waste circulates in the system repeatedly, and symptoms can appear. These symptoms may be subtle or severe, including: Headache Muscle soreness Nausea Fatigue Fever Stomach upset Skin rashes or eruptions Healing crises aren’t unique to massage. They may occur when you: Start a new health or exercise routine Recover from illness or injury Deal with lingering conditions from past ailments Emotional and physical trauma Possible vaccination side effects For some, symptoms can last 1–3 days , and in rare cases, up to a week or more . During a healing crisis, the body goes into a “flushing mode,” initiating an organized cleanse. This process helps remove remnants of past illnesses, viruses, bacteria, or injuries stored in muscles and fat. Think of your muscles like a hard drive, holding memory of previous ailments. Touching certain areas during a massage may trigger the release of this stored energy and waste—a natural and necessary part of healing. It’s important to note: no massage therapist can predict who will experience a healing crisis . If it occurs, it’s best to allow your body to do its job rather than fear the symptoms. If concerned, contact your health provider for further evaluation. How to Reduce the Risk of a Healing Crisis While you may not be able to prevent a healing crisis entirely, you can take steps to reduce its severity. Here are some recommendations: Stay hydrated before and after a massage with water and electrolytes.  Epsom salt or mustard seed baths  – These help reduce muscle soreness and flush out metabolic waste. Warm lemon water in the morning  – Supports liver function and helps alkalize the body. Apple cider vinegar drink  – Combine 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 8 oz lukewarm water, and 1 teaspoon honey to reduce delayed onset soreness (DOMS). Fermented drinks also support digestion. Prioritize rest  – Sleep supports the body’s natural healing processes. There are many ways to support your body through a healing crisis. Books, research articles, and reliable online resources can provide additional guidance and strategies. Alternatives therapies include enemas and fermented foods. Trust the Healing Process Experiencing a healing crisis after a massage can feel intense, but it’s a natural part of your body’s process of releasing stored metabolic waste by supporting long-term health. By staying hydrated, resting, and incorporating simple supportive practices like warm baths, fermented foods, and gentle lymphatic drainage or massage, you can ease the symptoms and allow your body to complete its cleansing process. Remember, a healing crisis is a sign that your body is actively working toward restoration—trust the process and honor your body’s need for care. If needed, seek advice from your doctor or healthcare professional for further assessment. Copyright © 2007-2027. Connective Integration Massage Therapy by Miss Susan Walker, LMT. All rights reserved. Susan Walker TX LIC#MT104431

The answer to whether deep connective tissue massage should hurt will vary depending on the therapist you ask. From my perspective, it depends on several factors: your touch sensitivity, the health and condition of your muscles, fascia (connective tissue), circulation, hydration, diet, and activity level. After nearly 20 years of practicing deep connective tissue massage, I’ve found that all of these elements play a major role in how the body responds to pressure and pain. Healthy tissue should not be tender when pressed. Tenderness is often a sign of poor circulation, which can lead to stagnant blood cells and the formation of “knots.” These knots may create tension, tightness, or trigger points that cause discomfort. A deep connective tissue massage does not have to “hurt” to be effective. However, you may feel a level of “good pain,” which indicates that the muscles and fascia are releasing properly. Every person has a unique pain threshold. What feels intense to one person may feel just right to another. Someone who receives massage regularly will often feel less soreness than someone experiencing deep connective tissue work for the first time. If you have adhesions, scar tissue, or overworked muscles, the technique may feel uncomfortable at times—but that is part of the therapeutic process. How I Approach Deep Connective Tissue Massage I begin by warming the fascia (connective tissue) to prepare the body for deeper work. Using slower, concentrated strokes I gradually work into the deeper muscle layers. Techniques such as stripping, cross-fiber friction, myofascial release, myoskeletal therapy, and sometimes hot stones are incorporated to loosen fascia and release adhesions. When I encounter a trigger point or nerve entrapment, you may feel temporary discomfort, pressure, or tingling. I apply focused pressure until the sensation eases, helping to release the trigger point. During this process, I encourage deep breathing. Breathing not only promotes relaxation but also increases circulation and aids in tension release. What to Expect Deep connective tissue massage is not a relaxing spa-style massage—it is a clinical, therapeutic approach designed to break up adhesions, release trigger points, and correct negative muscle patterns. I use little or no massage lotion to allow for deeper contact with the connective tissues and muscles. If you are new to this technique, you may experience temporary soreness, mild bruising, or slight swelling (known as DOMS—delayed onset muscle soreness). These symptoms usually subside within 24 to 48 hours. The Importance of Communication Communication is key during any deep connective tissue session. I will check in with you about pressure and comfort levels, and I encourage you to speak up if you feel referred pain or anything beyond tolerable discomfort. If you ever experience sharp or excruciating pain, it is vital to let me know immediately. I can always adjust or modify the technique to suit your needs. Deep connective tissue massage is a powerful tool for releasing long-held tension and restoring balance to the body. When combined with open communication, proper breathing, and regular care, it can be highly effective in promoting long-term muscular and fascial health. Copyright © 2007-2027. Connective Integration Massage Therapy by Miss Susan Walker, LMT. All rights reserved. Susan Walker TX LIC#MT104431

Removing your shoes is not a requirement, just a gentle reminder to be mindful and wipe your feet in case there is something on the bottom of your shoes. Before entering a home or office, something as simple as wiping your feet or leaving shoes at the door can do more than keep floors clean. Across cultures, this practice has long been associated with energy and well-being. In China and Japan, for example, removing shoes before entering a home is a standard custom. Beyond hygiene, it is believed to help prevent negative energy from entering the space, keeping the environment harmonious and balanced. To help maintain a positive and balanced energy in my office, I kindly ask that you wipe your feet before coming in. We recently had our parking lot redone, so above all, wiping your feet helps prevent tracking in tar. Removing your shoes is not a requirement, just a gentle reminder to be mindful and wipe your feet in case there is something on the bottom of your shoes. In energy work and massage therapy, I pay close attention to the flow of energy. Just as I clear and align energy during a session, consciously cleansing the energy you bring with you into a space can help maintain balance and positivity. You can also do this in your own home: small mindful practices, like wiping your feet, shaking out your clothes, or taking a deep breath, can create a more supportive, grounded environment for yourself and those around you. Your energy matters. And sometimes, the simplest rituals are the most powerful. Thank you for helping keep my space grounded, balanced, and welcoming. With care and Support, Suzan Walker LMT Copyright © 2007-2027. Connective Integration Massage Therapy by Miss Suzan Walker, LMT. All rights reserved. Susan Walker TX LIC#MT104431

Hello! Welcome to my blog! Here, you'll discover valuable insights on a variety of subjects, including self-care advice, issues impacting massage therapy, the techniques I employ, community, spiritual practices, and alternative therapies that enhance massage therapy. I will be sharing insights and methods that promote overall well-being. Here are some of the subjects I will discuss: Massage Therapy : advice, methods, and insights from my experience Complementary Alternative Therapies : practices that complement massage therapy, such as reflexology, aromatherapy, energy work, and the use of stones or crystals Spiritual Practices and Energy Work : insights into spiritual protection, energy balancing, and techniques to improve your overall well-being General Wellness Topics : anything concerning the connection between mind, body, and spirit Traditional Chinese Medicine has been a cornerstone of both modern and traditional medical practices, and we’ll explore its value alongside other alternative therapies from different cultures. This blog is created with inclusivity in mind . It’s for the LGBTQ+ community, Black Lives, Indigenous peoples, for the body positive, neurodivergent folks, and for anyone seeking safe, welcoming spaces to explore health and healing. I want to highlight the importance of inclusive spaces and bring a little more wellness into the world helping people grow, get the support they need, and engage in meaningful conversations with loved ones, family, and friends about the things that matter to them. While I don’t intend to make this a political blog, I acknowledge that the social and political climate affects health, wellness, and massage therapy. Everything I share is grounded in my school of practice, my personal expertise, and my ability to assist people in practical, informed ways. This blog will cover a wide variety of topics, and I’m excited to share my knowledge and expertise with you. Some posts may include opinion pieces so not everything will be one-size-fits-all, and that’s okay. Sometimes I have a tendency to sometimes information dump so if you enjoying reading quirky blogs this is the place for you. A quick disclaimer: I sometimes use profanity, so consider this your friendly heads-up. You’re welcome to sit a spell, ask questions, and comment. I encourage thoughtful discussion positive or constructive but if you’re here to spread hate, this blog isn’t the place for you. Most of what I write is meant to inform, not to be critiqued. My goal is to give you practical advice, recommendations for products and services, inspiration, and maybe even a little fun along the way. If you enjoy what you read, maybe book a massage, a healing session, or even just buy me a cup of coffee so that would be awesome (I love coffee)! So welcome to my blog! Sit back, relax, and enjoy yourself. I’ve got a lot to share, and I’m thrilled you’re here. Have a great one! 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