Contraindication
A situation where massage should be avoided or needs clearance.
Deep tissue massage
Firmer techniques for chronic tightness in healthy muscle — not "more pain, more gain".
DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness)
The muscle soreness that peaks a day or two after hard exercise.
Frozen shoulder
Progressive shoulder stiffness and pain that limits movement.
Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD)
Very light, rhythmic technique to support fluid movement — not deep pressure.
Muscle guarding
Protective muscle tightening around a painful or injured area.
Plantar fasciitis
Heel and arch pain, often worst on the first steps of the morning.
Range of motion
How far a joint can move comfortably in each direction.
Sciatica
Pain along the sciatic nerve path, often felt down the back of the leg.
Tech neck
Neck and upper-back tension from long hours looking at screens.
Therapeutic massage
Structured, condition-focused massage rather than general relaxation.
Trigger point
A tender, tight spot in muscle that can refer pain elsewhere.