Health Travel Tips
How to stay safe and get the most from a Thai massage in Thailand: timing, heat and sun, who should check with a doctor, choosing a clean shop and aftercare.
Sore back, stiff neck or tight legs after a long trip. What helps and what to ask for.
Health tips for a massage trip to Thailand
A Thai massage is one of the best parts of a trip to Thailand, and a little preparation makes it safer and more enjoyable. These tips cover timing, heat and sun, who should check with a doctor first, how to pick a clean shop and what to do afterwards.
Before your massage
Avoid a heavy meal in the hour before a session, especially for traditional Thai massage with deep pressure and stretching. Drink water, take a shower if you have been out in the heat, and wear or ask for loose clothing. Arrive a few minutes early so you can tell the therapist about any injuries, sore spots or areas to avoid.
Heat, sun and massage
Thailand is hot and humid for most of the year. If you are sunburnt, skip oil massage on burnt skin and ask the therapist to avoid those areas, or choose a foot massage instead. If you feel dizzy or overheated after a day outside, cool down and rehydrate before a massage rather than after.
After a long flight
A gentle oil massage or foot reflexology is a good way to loosen up after a long flight. Save deep traditional Thai massage for a day or two later, once you have rested and adjusted to the heat.
Alcohol and massage do not mix
Do not book a massage after drinking. Alcohol dehydrates you and dulls your sense of pain, so you may not notice when pressure is too strong. A massage the morning after a big night is also best kept gentle.
Who should check with a doctor first
Speak to a doctor before booking if you are pregnant, have had recent surgery or a recent injury, have a history of blood clots, heart problems, osteoporosis or other bone conditions, or have a skin infection or open wounds. Many shops will offer a lighter massage or a different style if you explain your situation.
How to choose a clean, safe shop
Look for clean mats, fresh towels and sheets for every client, a clear price list and therapists who ask about injuries before they start. Many good shops display their therapists’ training certificates on the wall. Read recent reviews and browse shops by city in our massage directory.
Speak up about pressure
Thai massage can be strong. If it hurts, say so straight away. Useful words: bao bao means gentle or softer, and jep means it hurts. A good therapist will adjust without fuss. Sharp or shooting pain is a sign to stop, not to push through.
Aftercare
Drink plenty of water after your massage and take it easy for an hour or two. Mild soreness for a day after a deep session is common. If pain is sharp, gets worse or lasts more than a couple of days, see a doctor. Make sure your travel insurance covers medical care while you are in Thailand.
More guides
New to Thai massage? Start with the Thai massage guide, compare Thai massage types, or read our wellness guides for muscle pain, sleep, stress, stretching and recovery.