Unlike your doctor, your massage therapist spends a whole hour with you — massaging your tissues, moving fluids around, and helping the body get rid of things that have settled and been there for a long time. Sometimes too long. The body's job is to maintain homeostasis no matter what, and it will do that at the detriment of something it might feel isn't necessary for life. For instance, a leg.
That's the part most people don't realize: an hour of skilled hands on tissue is a clinical event, and it intersects with whatever else is happening in your body whether we know about it or not.
So here's the simple ask: tell us what's going on.
What we can't see
What I've seen recently is a big uptick in people not sharing their medical information, and with massage there are too many unknowns. We are massage practitioners, not MRI or X-Ray machines. We can't see inside the body. We take the medical information you tell us and build a massage plan that aligns with your goals for the treatment, while also making the changes needed to customize the work to your medical situation.
Sharing your information doesn't mean you won't get your massage. It just means we're not putting you at more risk than we do good once you're on the table relaxing.
What can go wrong when we don't know
Here's a real example. If you're prone to thrombosis — a clotting issue usually established in the legs — but you don't share that information with your massage therapist, they may work deeper on your legs than what would otherwise be advised. Their massage could inadvertently cause the body to release a blood clot into the bloodstream, leading to a possible heart attack or stroke.
That's the worst end of the risk spectrum, and most cases are nowhere near that severe. But the principle holds for almost every condition: information we don't have is information we can't account for. Disclosure of all medical conditions is what lets the therapist ensure client safety, enhance the outcomes of treatment, and ensure your comfort while on the table. Everything is customizable, including which strokes we use, where we use them, and how deeply.
What changes when we do know
Here at That's the Rub, we're looking to be your partner in health, not just a one-time relaxation massage. The information you share helps us shape recovery from surgery, recovery from a hard workout, and everything in between.
For instance, I have a regular client who gets bimonthly massage. When they had a knee replacement, we skipped a massage or two while they were in initial recovery. When they started back, we didn't pick up where we left off — we shifted techniques specifically to serve their post-surgical recovery. That helped them recover faster, sleep better, restore range of motion sooner, and have more energy than they would have without massage post-op.
Why does that work? Because we tailored the massage to what their body actually needed in that moment, changed our techniques for better recovery outcomes, AND we didn't put them at undue risk because we understood what was going on. Massage helps the body process the byproducts of anesthesia after surgery by increasing blood circulation. It also calms the nervous system after the stress and tension of any medical procedure, helping the body restabilize and return to homeostasis faster. That homeostatic environment is where the body lives its best life.
We'll dig deeper into how the body handles inflammation specifically in a companion piece coming this week.
What's actually worth sharing
The intake form covers the basics, but here's what clients most often forget to mention that we wish they would:
Current medications — especially blood thinners, NSAIDs, muscle relaxers, antidepressants, and anything new in the last 90 days
Recent diagnoses or imaging — even if you don't think it's relevant to massage, your therapist might
Recent surgeries or procedures — including dental work, cosmetic procedures, and anything outpatient
Family history of clotting disorders — particularly DVT, pulmonary embolism, or stroke before age 65
Autoimmune conditions — RA, lupus, MS, fibromyalgia, psoriasis, or anything that affects how your tissue responds
Pregnancy or trying to conceive — first-trimester clients especially
Skin sensitivities or allergies — including allergies to oils, lotions, scents, latex, or nuts (we use almond and other nut-based oils)
Areas of recent injury — even minor ones, even if they're feeling fine that day
High or fluctuating blood pressure — affects how we work the neck and how quickly we transition you from lying to sitting
If you're not sure whether something matters, mention it anyway. The two-minute conversation is always worth more than the wrong assumption.
Your information is confidential
The information you share with us is confidential, just like the information you share with your doctor. It lives on your intake file, gets reviewed by your therapist before each appointment, and isn't shared outside our team. We use it to make better clinical decisions for you, and for nothing else.
What the research shows
The case for sharing this information is more than just safety — when your therapist has the full picture, the work goes further.
The American Massage Therapy Association reports that massage therapy can reduce post-operative pain, stress, and even the need for pain medications. It also supports reducing scar tissue and improving range of motion. A comprehensive meta-analysis of 33 randomized controlled trials, published in Complementary Therapies in Medicine, found that massage therapy significantly reduces post-surgical pain, both short-term and long-term.
Those results require a therapist who knows what they're treating. The clinical work is built on the medical context. Without it, we're guessing.
Before your next appointment
When you choose That's the Rub, we consider the body in its entirety, not just relaxation in the moment. We want to get long-term results and help you with your health care for the long haul. That means sharing more information than you think you might need, so the proper massage techniques get used at the proper time to get you the best results for your goals.
Before your next session, take five minutes to update your intake form with anything new since your last visit. If you have a complex situation or have had a recent procedure, reach out to us first and we'll talk through it before you book.
That's the Rub,
Lisa
This article is educational and reflects clinical observation, not medical advice. If you have a specific medical condition or concern about whether massage is right for you, please consult your physician.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need to tell my massage therapist about my medical conditions?
Yes. Even conditions that seem unrelated to massage can change what techniques are safe or effective for you. Sharing your medical history protects your safety on the table and makes the work more effective.
Is what I tell my massage therapist confidential?
Yes. Your intake information lives on your client file, is reviewed only by your therapist before sessions, and is not shared outside the practice.
Can I still get a massage if I have a serious medical condition?
In most cases, yes — but the type of massage, the depth of pressure, and the areas worked may change based on the condition. Some conditions require physician clearance first, and your therapist can tell you when that's the case.
What happens if I forgot to mention something at intake?
Tell your therapist as soon as you remember, even mid-session. We'd rather pause and adjust than continue treatment that isn't right for you.
Is post-surgery massage safe?
Post-surgical massage can be beneficial for recovery — reducing pain, swelling, scar tissue, and helping restore range of motion — but timing and technique matter. Most surgeons clear patients for massage at specific points in recovery. Always tell your therapist about recent surgery, and bring any physician clearance you've been given.
For years, you've told us the scent of our space is part of the experience - that mid-century calm, the warmth, the way it feels to finally exhale.
Now you can take it with you.
We've partnered with Lakehouse Candle Company in Brown County to create an exclusive line that brings our vibe home. Three collections, each with a purpose:
The Rub - Our signature scent Library: Antique sandalwood that smells like worn leather, quiet afternoons, and rooms that have stories Bohemian Rose: Unexpected, a little moody, totally us
Intend - For when you need energy, motivation, creative spark Grapefruit & Mint: Bright and clean Ginger & Spice: Warm momentum Citrus Grove: Morning clarity
Presence - For grounding, meditation, the kind of calm you come here for Matcha & Bergamot: Soft focus Smoked Oud: Deep, earthy, centering
Every candle is hand-poured by Lakehouse Candle Company with 100% natural soy wax and clean fragrance oils - no phthalates, carcinogens, or the chemical garbage hiding in most candles. Just scent that does what it's supposed to do.
Pricing: Small tin: $10 Small glass: $20 Large glass: $25
Limited time: Buy a large candle, get a free eye mask while supplies last.
A Community Wellness Event to Kick Off 2026 Strong
If your New Year’s resolutions include feeling better, moving better, or finally getting serious about your health, the New Year’s Resolution Health Fair is a smart place to start.
Hosted by Paragon Wellness Center, this free local wellness expo brings together a wide range of health-focused businesses and practitioners in one place, making it easy to explore your options, ask questions, and build a realistic plan for the year ahead.
Event Details at a Glance
The New Year’s Resolution Health Fair will take place on:
Saturday, January 10, 2026 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The Warehouse 1525 South Rogers Street Bloomington, IN 47403
Admission is free and open to the public, making it accessible to anyone curious about improving their health in the new year.
What to Expect at the Health Fair
This is a hands-on, in-person event designed to help you explore wellness resources available right here in the Bloomington area.
Throughout the four-hour event, attendees can browse booths and tables featuring a diverse mix of health and wellness vendors, including:
Gyms and fitness providers
Massage therapists and bodyworkers
Chiropractors and physical therapists
Acupuncturists and herbalists
Functional and holistic health practitioners
Local farmers, ranchers, and apiarists
Insurers and wellness-focused service providers
In addition to vendor booths, the fair will include wellness talks, local food options, raffles and door prizes, and curated goodie bags. It’s designed to be informative without being overwhelming and welcoming whether you’re just starting out or refining an existing health routine.
A Practical Approach to New Year’s Wellness
Many people start January with big intentions but little guidance. The New Year’s Resolution Health Fair flips that script by offering face-to-face conversations with professionals who can help you make informed, sustainable choices.
Instead of guessing which gym, therapist, or wellness service might be right for you, you can meet providers directly, ask specific questions, and learn what each approach actually offers. That clarity alone can make the difference between resolutions that fade and changes that stick.
That’s the Rub & Wellness Through Art at the Fair
That’s the Rub Massage Therapy Center will be participating in the fair alongside Wellness Through Art, offering attendees a chance to learn more about results-oriented massage therapy and creative approaches to wellness.
Our team believes effective self-care should be practical, evidence-informed, and personalized. At the booth, you’ll be able to ask questions about therapeutic massage, injury prevention, stress management, and how massage fits into a broader wellness plan, without hype or pressure.
Wellness Through Art will also be on hand, sharing insights into how creative expression can support emotional health, stress regulation, and personal growth. Together, we’ll be focusing on tools people can actually use, not trends that look good on social media and disappear by February.
Vendors & Community Participation
Paragon Wellness Center welcomes a wide variety of wellness vendors to participate in the event. Past and current listings include energy workers, physical therapists, farmers and ranchers, apiarists, insurers, dispensaries, and more.
Businesses and practitioners interested in becoming a vendor can inquire by emailing [email protected].
The event is also listed on regional platforms such as Eventbrite and local tourism and community calendars, where attendees can find updates or additional details as the date approaches.
Why This Health Fair Matters
Bloomington has a strong, diverse wellness community, but it’s not always easy to see the full picture. The New Year’s Resolution Health Fair creates a single, accessible space to explore what’s available, connect with local experts, and make informed choices without sales pressure.
If your goal for 2026 is better health with fewer gimmicks and more clarity, this is an event worth putting on your calendar.
Mark your calendar for Saturday, January 10, 2026, and join us at The Warehouse for a practical, community-driven start to the new year.
The benefits of massage therapy aid in muscle recovery and health, by reducing inflammation and promoting quicker repair.
Lymph Circulation
Enhances lymph circulation, facilitating faster removal of waste products and aiding in muscle recovery.
Injury Prevention
Regular massage identifies tension and imbalance, reducing the risk of overuse injuries.
Flexibility and Range of Motion
Improves flexibility and range of motion, crucial for dynamic movements.
Stamina and Endurance
Boosts stamina and endurance, essential for enduring physically demanding tasks.
Mental Health Benefits
Promotes relaxation, reduces anxiety, and improves mood, contributing to mental clarity and decision-making.
Aesthetic Benefits
Nourishes skin and hair, contributing to a healthy appearance.
Overall Well-being
Integrates physical and mental wellness, maintaining a state of peak performance.
In an era where peak performance is not just desired but demanded, the benefits of massage therapy have emerged as a vital ally. Once seen as a luxury, it's now recognized as a necessity for anyone engaged in physically demanding activities. Superheroes, both in comics and in our daily lives, epitomize the peak of physical prowess. But even these extraordinary figures aren't immune to the rigors of their roles. Just like professional athletes and active individuals, superheroes need a strategy for recovery and maintenance. Massage therapy offers just that – a path to sustained health and readiness.
The Physical Demands of a Superhero
The life of a superhero is one of constant physical challenges. Leaping from buildings, battling villains, and saving the day are all in a day's work. These activities mirror the intense training and performances of high-level athletes. Just as an athlete needs to be in top condition, so does a superhero. The toll that such a lifestyle takes on the body is immense. It's not just about strength and agility; it's about the ability to recover and continue performing at the highest level. This is where the benefits of massage therapy come in.
Muscle Recovery and Cellular Health
Every action-packed day for a superhero involves muscle breakdown and repair. This cycle, similar to what athletes experience in their training, requires a focus on recovery to maintain peak performance. Massage therapy plays a critical role here. It doesn't just provide temporary relief but actively promotes muscle health. By reducing inflammation and knots in the muscles, massage ensures that these warriors are ready for their next battle. Clinical studies have shown that massage can significantly alleviate pain and enhance muscle recovery, making it an indispensable tool in a superhero's arsenal.
Enhanced Lymph Circulation and Injury Prevention
The unsung hero in our bodies, the lymphatic system, is crucial for removing waste products and aiding in recovery. Unlike the circulatory system, it doesn't have a pump. One of the big benefits of massage therapy is it assists in moving lymph fluid, facilitating quicker muscle recovery. For a superhero, this means less downtime and more action. By maintaining this balance, massage not only aids in recovery but also plays a preventative role, reducing the risk of injuries that can come from overuse or muscle imbalances.
Improving Flexibility and Range of Motion
The dynamic and often acrobatic movements of superheroes require exceptional flexibility and range of motion. Regular massage therapy can significantly improve these aspects. It works by loosening tight muscles and allowing for a greater degree of movement. This flexibility is not just about impressive feats of agility; it's a crucial element in avoiding injuries and maintaining the fluid, graceful movements that define a superhero's combat style.
Boosted Stamina and Endurance
In the world of superheroes, stamina and endurance are as important as any superpower. The benefits of massage therapy are unsung heroes in this regard. By enhancing blood circulation and facilitating the efficient removal of metabolic wastes, it helps boost stamina. This ensures that superheroes can endure prolonged battles and demanding rescue missions without faltering. Enhanced muscle tone, a byproduct of regular massages, also contributes to this increased endurance, allowing our heroes to stay resilient in the face of unending challenges.
Mental Recovery: Confidence and Clarity
The benefits of massage therapy extend beyond the physical. The mental fortitude required to face villainous threats and high-stress situations is immense. Massage therapy aids in this mental preparation by promoting relaxation, reducing anxiety, and improving overall mood. It supports better sleep, heightened positivity, and sharper mental alertness. For a superhero, this translates to improved decision-making and confidence in the heat of battle, ensuring that their mind is as prepared as their body.
The Aesthetic Benefits: Nourishing Skin and Hair
Often overlooked, the aesthetic benefits of massage therapy are also noteworthy. Increased blood flow during a massage session doesn't just help with muscle recovery; it also nourishes the skin and hair. For superheroes, whose appearance can be a part of their persona and public image, maintaining a healthy appearance is not just about vanity but also about inspiring confidence and trust in those they protect. This aspect of massage therapy ensures that our heroes not only feel good but also look the part.
Conclusion
The life of a superhero, much like that of an athlete or a highly active individual, demands a rigorous focus on physical and mental well-being. Massage therapy emerges as a crucial component in this regimen. Its benefits, ranging from enhanced muscle recovery, improved flexibility, increased stamina, and mental clarity to aesthetic improvements, form the backbone of a superhero's readiness to face new challenges every day. Integrating regular massage into one's routine is not just about recovery; it's about maintaining a state of peak performance.
Are you ready to embrace the superhero within? At That’s The Rub, we offer a diverse range of therapeutic massage options tailored to your unique needs. Whether you're battling daily stress or preparing for your next big challenge, our expert therapists are here to help. Visit our menu to explore our services and book your session today. Discover the transformative power of massage and take the first step towards your own heroic journey of health and well-being.
TL/DR: Hey there,Friend! 🎃 October's HUGE at That's the Rub! We've switched our software (again! 😅) to MindBody, aiming to serve you better. If you've got a Gift Certificate from before, bring it or its number. And guess what? Our beloved Series is BACK and cooler than ever! Got questions or just wanna chat? Shoot us an email. Thanks for sticking with Team Rub through these tech adventures! 💆♂️🎉
Welcome to October, one of the BIG months around That's the Rub in general (we're all a bit Halloween happy around here), and this year in particular it's pretty huge!
First off, an explanation of the BIGGEST NEWS:
We changed software AGAIN!
To recap our software journey this year for those just joining us: In January, after 13 years of using the same platform it was announced it would be discontinued and we would need to find a replacement. As we, The Rub, have been dissatisfied with the support for the last couple of years (the company was acquired and cannibalized but allowed to flounder) we were happy to switch, especially in light of our increasing turn to advanced therapeutic massage techniques and treatment planning. So, three months ago we adopted a software designed for physical therapists which really wants to be used by spas and wellness centers.
This software came with a lot of good ideas, several innovative concepts our clients liked, and sadly quite a bit our clients did not, so after working with the company on a near-daily basis to resolve our (and your) concerns we made one of the hardest decisions we (Lisa & Jim) have had to make in our careers and once more go through the hundreds of hours necessary to change software to something more suited to what That's the Rub does: Therapeutic Massage.
Welcome MindBody (with juice!)
After quite a bit of deliberation, research, and hand-wringing we opted for Mindbody (the 10,000lbs gorilla for spa and salon scheduling). This was not easy, and we didn't go into it lightly, but we did go into it knowing with it we would be able to support you, our team, and our community in the way you have been accustomed to for the last 14 years That's the Rub has been part of Bloomington's wellness scene and be able to continue to doing so for another 54 years.
What's it Mean to YOU?
Hopefully not much more than a few new emails, a better scheduling experience, and a much, much faster check-out time in the boutique. for a few of you it will also mean...
If you have a Gift Certificate from the previous systems you will need to bring it (or at least the number) in to redeem. They are all still valid, however we have lost the ability to look up the old numbers as that software is no longer with us. But we do have all the numerical records, so as long as the number exists, so does your gift certificate (WHEW!). Future Gift Certificate purchases will be trackable, however.
ALSO! Gift Certificates are once again available for purchase directly from our websitein a very easy and pleasing to use way (this was one of the biggest complaints we received over the summer about the previous software). We think you're really going to like this interface!
Series are BACK and they're wearing sunglasses! Folks who have been with us for a long time know that the BEST way to save money appointment after appointment, week after week is to purchase a SERIES of APPOINTMENTS in advance and save up to 20% on ALL of the appointments! NO MEMBERSHIPS to worry about, just buy a pack of services and use them. Simple! you can buy these right away if you call (you know, 812-333-3393), click here (or here), or in a couple of days Jim is going to have a proper landing page for these. They're BACK and better than ever!
IMPORTANT IF YOU HAVE A SERIES ALREADY: They're being brought over to the new software and you won't lose a thing. However, you might get a receipt that says you just "bought" a series...you DID NOT GET CHARGED, it's the way the system has to attach it to your account, and it has been throwing out receipts on occasion. If you have any questions or concerns, write [email protected] (ye ole humble writer) and I'll be happy to send you proof from my side of the software that shows the payment type wasn't you.
Why do I KNOW it wasn't you? Because one other thing that didn't transfer over was anyone's card on file. Which means you will likely have to enter it again or will be asked for it by the Front Desk next time you call in. the software still requires it, but US law does not allow them to transfer, and I'm okay with that from a security standpoint and we thank you for your understanding.
Friend, YOU are a big part of That's the Rub's story and our software is what allows us to keep telling that story to more and more people like you. We wouldn't be here without you, and it just means the world to us to have your love and support. THANK YOU for being here and thank you again as we head once more, for what I hope is the last time, into the murky depths of software changes.
Stay tuned for more announcements including an upcoming special, Halloween trick-or-treat announcements, and EVEN MORE new staff coming on board soon because we want YOU to get the RESULTS you deserve!
That's the Rub,
Team Rub!
PS - Want to try out our swanky new software and get on the books for the weekend? OF COURSE you do! Click hereif you're so inclined or that big Blue Button in the menu above!
In a world where wellness often feels like a buzzword, it's refreshing to meet a therapeutic massage professional who genuinely puts your health and well-being at the forefront. Enter Conner Weir, a Licensed Therapeutic Massage Therapist at That's the Rub Massage Therapy Center in Bloomington, IN. With hands that seem to have an intuitive touch, Conner is not just another name in the industry; he's a game-changer in the realm of therapeutic massage.
A Natural Talent Turned Professional Passion in Therapeutic Massage
From an early age, Conner discovered his knack for soothing and healing through the art of therapeutic massage. What started as a childhood interest has blossomed into a full-fledged professional passion. Conner's approach to therapeutic massage is as unique as you are. Whether you're looking for focused, intensive work or a holistic, relaxing session, he begins by understanding your specific goals. Then, he crafts a therapeutic massage experience that works in harmony with your body's unique needs, reviving its vitality and restoring its flexibility.
Not Your Everyday Therapeutic Massage Therapist
Conner is a maverick both inside and outside the massage room. When he's not kneading away your tensions, he's diving into a world of diverse hobbies, from MMA and card games to culinary adventures. His vibrant lifestyle mirrors his diverse therapeutic massage techniqueshttps://thatstherub.com/therubblog/deep-tissue-massage-and-weight-loss-the-perfect-partnership/. Skilled in delivering heavy pressure, Conner is also proficient in the myofascial technique for deep tissue work, promoting overall muscle health.
Your Wellness Journey Starts Here with Therapeutic Massage
Ready to embark on a wellness journey with a difference? Whether it's a Swedish, myofascial, or deep tissue therapeutic massage, let Conner's expertise guide you toward relaxation and rejuvenation. After all, your body goals are his mission. Schedule with Conner right now by heading over to our booking portal or giving us a jingle at 812-333-3393 and we'll get you on his books! So, we'll ask again—What is YOUR Goal?
