Tips on how to give a really good back massage?

01/28/25 3:57pm

I want to give really good back massages, but I never really know what I'm doing when I try them. Does anyone have any tips on specific techniques, areas of the back to target, etc? Also, any suggestions for creating a more relaxing massage "environment" would be super appreciated. Thanks!

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For a complete guide to this topic, read the wikiHow article How to Give a Back Massage .

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Marty Morales
Professional Massage Therapist

01/29/25 10:13am

When giving someone a massage, it's really important to listen to them as you go. When some people find a knot, they proceed to really dig into it, even if it's painful to the other person. Listen to the recipient—if they say something you're doing is too much, back off a bit. You can actually get more done by keeping steady pressure instead of constantly pushing harder and harder on the knot. More is not necessarily better! Those are my two big pieces of advice: keep lines of communication open, and remember that sometimes less is more.

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wikiHow Editorial Team

03/17/25 7:09pm

To give a good back massage, start by creating a relaxing environment. Provide the person you're massaging a comfortable place to lie down—a table or floor covered in soft blankets works well. Dim the lights, ensure the room is a comfortable temperature, and ask if they'd like to listen to some music (a few instrumental tracks at a low volume are a good choice).

Have them undress to their comfort level and lie on their stomach. Start by spreading massage oil evenly over their back. Use a combination of gliding strokes (long, sweeping movements), short, circular strokes (kneading into the muscles), and percussive strokes (light tapping) to massage the muscles on either side of the spine. Knead their back, moving from the shoulders down, with your thumbs using a fanning technique to push the muscles down toward their feet.

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Rainbow7

03/16/25 8:07am

You should not apply to much pressure. Apply the amount of pressure the person needs. Also, be careful not to hurt the spine.

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WikiWombatReader897

01/31/25 9:30am

I like to have bottled water available for the person to drink after the massage. Flushing toxins released from massaged muscles will help prevent them from getting a headache.

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WikiBadgerWatcher783

01/30/25 11:32am

My partner has long hair so I always ask her to tie it back before we get started. Having to repeatedly brush hair aside distracts from relaxing into the experience and makes the whole thing less romantic.

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WikiFawnSeeker757

01/30/25 7:12am

Asking occasional feedback allows you to tailor pressure and technique. Check in on their comfort level and make adjustments as needed so they can fully relax.

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WikiLlamaWhisperer151

01/29/25 12:00pm

When you're massaging over their spine and other sensitive areas, use extra care to not apply too much pressure since it can cause discomfort or pain and end up not being relaxing.

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