The massage therapy profession faces a startling reality: the average career spans less than seven years. Why? Traditional deep tissue massage techniques, which rely heavily on thumbs, fingers, and repeated bending at the waist, often lead to career-ending injuries.

My own journey with this challenge began 3.5 years into my career as a massage therapist.

The signs were clear: aching wrists, throbbing forearms, and tendonitis in one elbow. While I was passionate about my work, the prospect of continuing deep tissue massage seemed unsustainable. Then I discovered Ashiatsu barefoot massage – and it transformed everything.

Barefoot massage opened up a whole new world of possibilities.

I learned to use my feet as sensitive instruments, utilizing my heels and the balls of my feet to deliver deep, effective pressure. The response from clients has been overwhelming – many who were devoted to traditional massage have tried Ashiatsu and never looked back.

The most remarkable change? The complete elimination of my physical pain. It wasn't until I spent a full week performing only Ashiatsu that I realized how much better I felt. The contrast became crystal clear when I later attempted a traditional deep tissue massage – within 30 minutes, my elbow pain returned. That moment cemented my decision to transition away from hand-based deep tissue work, especially for larger clients.

The enthusiasm for barefoot massage extends far beyond my practice. Clients across the country are discovering its benefits: the deep pressure no longer causes discomfort. Instead of sharp, pointed pressure from thumbs and elbows on areas like the piriformis or quadratus lumborum muscles, they experience the smooth, broad pressure of the heel – which they find incredibly effective.

The results are profound: clients often finish sessions in a state of deep relaxation, sometimes reluctant to leave the table. Best of all, the therapeutic effects typically last for several days.

Convinced? If you're in the Cincinnati area, schedule a massage and try it out!

Or if you're a massage therapist struggling with pain after a day of massage,  you can contact me and register for a class. Let me know what questions you have!