My massage was unusual. I've had a lot of deep tissue massages, but never one this excruciatingly painful. In his defense I never complained that the pressure was too hard, and he did ask me to let him know if it was too much but I just took it in stride. My therapist spent a great deal of time and care discussing my needs. He was knowledgeable and passionate about his work, however, in the end I found the experience very painful and not at all relaxing. It just was not what I expected. Additionally, I'm alarmed to have discovered bruises on my back from where he pressed. It was just a bit much for my taste.