Author: ayoola

Jameelah explains how this pregnancy feels different from her previous two. She’s experiencing abdominal, hip, knee, and shoulder pain but has been cleared for prenatal massage.

Pregnancy Relief for prenatal Pain Relief

Pregnant black muslim celebrity model in a beautiful flowing pink gown wallking down a red carpet after her prenatal massage
Pregnant black muslim celebrity model in a beautiful flowing pink gown walking down a red carpet after her prenatal massage

Techniques for the third trimester 

Pregnancy is a beautiful Journey, but it can also bring physical discomfort especially in the third trimester. Many expecting mothers experience hip pain, shoulder tension, and lower back aches as the body prepares for birth. Prenatal massage is a safe, natural way to find relief, improve circulation, and restore comfort.  

*Always consult with your medical provider before seeking a massage during pregnancy.

In this video, I work with my client Jameelah, who is 36 weeks pregnant with her third child. She shares her personal experience with pregnancy discomfort and how prenatal message helped her feel lighter, pain-free, and more at ease.

👉 Watch the full video below, then read the highlights with timestamps to learn more about what to expect during a prenatal massage.

What to expect during a  prenatal massage (with timestamps)

0:00 – 2:20| Pregnancy Background

2:20 – 4:30| Why Prenatal Massage Matters

Prenatal massage can ease tension, reduce pain, and provide emotional comfort. With proper positioning and pillows for support, expecting moms can enjoy a safe and relaxing experience. 

4:30 – 10:20| Neck & Shoulder Relief

  • Gentle but firm strokes along the back.
  • Medium-to-firm pressure can help reduce shoulder pain and tension related to milk production and posture.

10:20 – 19:40 | Back Massage for Third Trimester Pain

  • Relaxing effleurage strokes along the back.
  • “Kissing ducks” strokes and thumb spirals to release tightness.
  • Erector pulls to support lower back relief.
  • Techniques to  avoid: direct abdominal pressure, focusing instead on safe supportive touch. 

19:40 – 26:00 | Hip & Glute Massage 

  • Focused techniques to ease hip tension and glute. tightness.
  • Slow, intentional movements help relieve discomfort without causing nausea.
  • Hip massage can reduce waddling and improve mobility. 

26:00 – End | The Results

After her massage, Jahmeelah reported feeling “amazing”. Her shoulder and hip pain disappeared. and she no longer felt the need to waddle when walking.

Pregnant Brunette Model feels like royalty after her prenatal massage in Glam Gown on Red Carpet
Pregnant Brunette Model in feels like royalty after her prenatal massage in Glam Gown on Red Carpet

 

 

 

 

Benefits of Prenatal Massage

  • Reduces back, hip and Joint pain

    Pregnant White Blond in Flower Dress
    Pregnant White Blond in Flower Dress
  • Improves circulation and reduces swelling
  • Helps ease muscle tension from posture and weight changes
  • Promotes relaxation and better sleep
  • Provides safe, nurturing touch during a time of physical stress
Frequently Asked Questions About Prenatal Massage

🤰 Is prenatal massage safe?

Yes, when performed by a trained massage therapist and with clearance from your healthcare provider, prenatal massage is generally safe. Techniques are adjusted for each trimester, and positioning is carefully chosen to keep mom and baby comfortable.

 

🕒 How often should I get prenatal massage?

it depends on your body and pregnancy needs. Many expecting moms schedule massages once or twice a month in the second trimester and more frequency in the third trimester when discomfort increases.

💆‍♀️ What areas can prenatal massage help with most?

Common focus areas include the lower back, hips, shoulders, and neck – all of which take on extra stress during pregnancy. Massage can also improve circulation in the legs and reduce swelling in the feet and ankles. 

🚫 Who should avoid prenatal massage?

Women with high-risk pregnancies should always check with their doctor first. IF you’re experiencing preterm labor symptoms, severe swelling, or certain medical conditions, your provider may recommend waiting.

 

🪑How will I be positioned during the massage?

Most. prenatal massages are performed in a side-lying position with supportive pillows to relieve pressure from the belly and lower back. This ensures comfort and safety for both mother and baby. 

Pregnant Muslim Brown Skin Glam Girl
Pregnant Muslim Brown Skin Glam Girl
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Ready to experience Prenatal Massage?

If you’er expecting and want. to relieve pregnancy pain, prenatal massage can help you fell more comfortable and supported. At Muscle Management Services, I provide safe, customized sessions designed for each stage of pregnancy.

 

👉 Book your prenatal massage today

Book Now

and give your body the relief it deserves.  

Pregnant model feels great after her prenatal massage in a pink puffy sleeve dress
Pregnant model feels great after her prenatal massage in a pink puffy sleeve dress

 

how to prepare before and After Lipo?
Woman with red pre-surgery markings on her face.
Pre-op markings on beautiful woman.

Lipo pre-op & Post-Op Care 

Liposuction and Tummy Tuck Must haves

Most needed items before you undergo liposuction or tummy tuck surgery.   

Time and time again my clients come to me surprised by how long recover from liposuction can actually be.  I’v had some clients still experiencing soreness, swelling and even numbness six months to a year after their initial surgery. healing time varies from person to person, but one thing remains consistent: recovery is a journey. Considering how long it may take to feel “normal” again, it’s worth. taking extra steps to make sure you are prepared and supported throughout the process.

Better plastic surgeons will tell you that healing from your surgery doesn’t begin in the operating room — it starts before you ever go under the knife.  Preparing your body in advance can lead to faster healing, reduced pain, and better results overall.  

Hydration, nutrition and muscle palpability are key factors when working on pre-surgery readiness.  

Pre-op Preparation

Hydration is always important, but it becomes critical before surgery.  Yes, you’ll receive IV fluids during the procedure, but most surgeons will tell you they notice a clear difference when operating on someone who is well-hydrated versus dehydrated. Proper hydration helps keep your tissues healthier and more resilient, which makes surgery and recovery easier.  Sometimes water alone isn’t enough to penetrate the muscles, which is why electrolyte balance and good nutrition are equally important. 

Another key factor is muscle readiness. Tense, tight muscles and restricted fascia can contribute to discomfort both before and after surgery. Taking time to prepare your body with stretching,

massage or targeted therapies makes a bid difference. Scheduling a massage a few day before your surgery may help in many ways.  Book you Pre-op massage with Muscle Management Services in you are in the Philadelphia area.  

 

Book Pre-op

✅ Pre-Op Checklist (2-4 weeks before surgery)
  • Stay Hydrated: Aim for 8-10 glasses of water daily, carry a water bottle with you everywhere to make this easier; add electrolytes if needed.
  • Focus on Nutrition:  Eat whole foods rich in vitamins C,D zinc and protein to support healing. 
  • Limit Alcohol and Nicotine: Both slow healing and increase surgical risks.
  • Exercise and Stretching: Gentle movements keeps circulation strong.
  • Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD): Start sessions before surgery to reduce fluid retention, support lymphatic flow, and prep your body for faster healing.
  • Prepare Your Home: Stock up on loose clothing, compression garments, healthy meals and pillows for proper positioning. 
  • Consult With Your Surgeon: Review medications and supplements (some may need to be paused)
Woman -Post-surgery with bandage across her chest
Woman -Post-surgery with bandage across her chest
Post-op Recovery

After liposuction or a tummy tuck, swelling, bruising, and tightness are inevitable parts of the healing process. Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) can make a huge different during this time. MLD gently moves excess fluid out of the tissues, reduces swelling, speeds up healing, and helps minimize the risk of fibrosis (hard lumps under the skin). Many clients find that incorporating MLD into the recovery plan not only makes them more comfortable but also helps their final results look smoother and more natural. 

book post-op

 

 

✅Post-Op Checklist (first 6-12 weeks)
  • Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions: Take medications, wear compression garments, and attend followups.
  • Schedule Post-Op MLD: Begin as soon as your surgeon clears you- usually within the first week. Regular sessions reduce swelling and support smoother results. 
  • Hydrate Consistently: Water is your best friend for flushing out toxins and reducing swelling.
  • Gentle Movement: Walking helps circulation and prevents blood clots (avoid strenuous exercise until cleared).
  • Nutrition for healing: Stick to protein-rich meal, fruits and vegetables, and anti-inflammatory foods. Consider stocking up on healthy low sodium prepared meals ahead of time.
  • Compression Garments: Wear as instructed to help your body contour properly.  Use foam boards and also pay attention to and to a smaller size as swelling is reduced. 
  • Rest and Positioning: Use supportive pillows to sleep in positions that reduce strain and swelling.
  • Monitor Your Body: Watch for unusual pain, fever, or excessive swelling and contact your surgeon immediately if they occur.

 

✅Other Items to Consider

Save up Cash in your FSA and HSA account.  Many items needed are eligible and can save you some money. 

◾️Arnica Cream –Amazon Product – T Relief Arnica +12

Helps with pain, symptom free, topical.

◾️Magnesium- Magnesium Spray

Helps with muscle pain and discomfort, helps with sleep, symptom low.

◾️Probiotics – Probiotics

Pain medications and surgery medications can kill your gut biome, Use probiotics to help build back and keep bowel movements consistent. 

◾️Wedge Pillow- Lux Wedge Pillow

◾️Large Bolster – Large Bolster

Sitting/laying may cause stress/tension on your lower abdominal area, the bolster helps lift legs for more comfort while sleeping.  I would also add a few regular pillows under your ankles for circulation support. 

◾️Small Neck Pillow – Small Neck Pillow

Sleeping on your back may not feel comfortable this neck support pillow helps keep your head from swinging to the side. It’s already gonna be difficult to sleep.

◾️Bedside Stool-  Bed Step Stool

If your bed is high off the ground, getting into bed will be the hardest thing you”ll have to do for a few weeks. It’ll be a great investment!

◾️Mattress Pads – Mattress Pads or Chucks

Your wounds will seep for the first few days and you’ll need this to keep your bed and chairs clean.

◾️Adult Diapers – Diapers

So you’ll probably be so sore that you might not be able to get to the toilet in time.  Trust me these will save you the pain of having to bend to change your clothing. 

◾️Scar Tape – Scar Tape for post-op healing

Helps scars heal smoother, faster and lower the risk of keloid scars. 

◾️Foam Boards & Pads- Front, Back and Lateral Foam Boards

Helps keep pressure on your torso to promote drainage and also fills up the space your Faja may not be as tight. Tip: wear a thin cotton shirt between your skin and boards and Faja to protect your skin. 

◾️Electrolytes  Tablets – Nuun Hydration Tablets

I cannot over state how important Hydration is, use these tablets to you water to boost your body’s water absorbing powers.

◾️Water Bottle – Yeti 64oz Water Bottle

Use this large water bottle to help you track your water intake, it holds 8 cups of water which is the minimum recommend daily volume. Challenge yourself to drink at least one of these in a day. 

 

*This post includes affiliate links.

 

Copyright Notice: © 2025 Ayoola Toyer. All Rights Reserved 

The Healing Power of Lymphatic Drainage Massage After Surgery

Undergoing surgery is a significant event that brings both physical and emotional challenges. Post-surgical recovery is a crucial phase that requires adequate care and attention to promote healing, reduce swelling, and enhance overall well-being. One highly effective and increasingly popular method to achieve these goals is through lymphatic drainage massage also referred to as manual lymphatic drainage massage (MLD).  Let’s learn how Lymphatic Drainage Massage helps with post-op care.

What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage?

Lymphatic drainage massage is a specialized therapeutic technique designed to stimulate the lymphatic system, which plays a vital role in removing waste, toxins, and excess fluid from the body. This gentle, non-invasive massage technique targets the lymph nodes and vessels, promoting the flow of lymphatic fluid, and encouraging the body’s natural detoxification process.

1. Reduction of Post-Surgical Swelling:

Swelling, or edema, is a common side effect of surgery due to fluid buildup in the body’s tissues. MLD massage helps reduce swelling by stimulating lymphatic circulation, facilitating the removal of excess fluid and reducing tissue inflammation. By accelerating the healing process, this massage technique can help patients regain their mobility more quickly.

2. Accelerated Healing and Scar Tissue Reduction:

Post-surgical lymphatic drainage massage can enhance the healing process by increasing oxygen and nutrient supply to the affected tissues. Improved circulation helps bring essential nutrients to the surgical site, promoting tissue repair and reducing the formation of scar tissue. The gentle strokes of lymphatic drainage massage can also help break down existing scar tissue, leading to smoother and less visible scars.

3. Enhanced Immune System Support:

Surgery can temporarily weaken the immune system, making patients more susceptible to infections. Lymphatic drainage massage not only helps remove toxins and waste products but also stimulates the production of lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell crucial for immune system function. By boosting the immune system, this massage technique can aid in protecting the body against potential post-surgical infections.

4. Pain Relief and Increased Comfort:

Post-surgical pain is a common concern for patients during recovery. Lymphatic drainage massage can help alleviate discomfort by reducing tissue inflammation and releasing endorphins, the body’s natural pain-relieving hormones. This gentle massage technique also promotes relaxation and stress reduction, contributing to an overall sense of well-being throughout the recovery process.

5. Improved Energy and Vitality:

Surgery and the subsequent recovery period can leave patients feeling fatigued and drained. Lymphatic drainage massage helps improve blood and lymphatic circulation, which can enhance energy levels and promote a sense of rejuvenation. By stimulating the body’s natural filtration/detoxifying process, this massage technique helps eliminate toxins and waste products, leaving patients feeling revitalized.

Lymphatic drainage massage is a highly beneficial therapy for individuals recovering from surgery. Its ability to reduce swelling, accelerate healing, support the immune system, relieve pain, and improve energy levels makes it an invaluable tool in post-surgical recovery. However, it is crucial to consult with a qualified massage therapist or healthcare provider before undergoing lymphatic drainage massage to ensure its suitability for your specific post-surgical needs. With proper care and these therapeutic benefits, patients can experience a smoother and more comfortable recovery journey.

Ayoola at Muscle Management Services is licensed in the Vodder technique of Manual Lymphatic Drainage massage, book with her at Muscle Management Services PHILADELPHIA (848) 359-4809.

 

Modern Massage Therapy and Happy Ending

Modern Massage Spa
Modern image of a spa. a masage table with a water feature in the background.

My hope is that every Massage Professional strives to have clients leave the session with a happy ending and by that I mean a smile on their face from the great professional massage that they have just received. “Happy Ending” is not a term that professional American Massage Therapist identify with or acknowledge however there are still those that seek sexual services and happy endings, as well as many businesses local as well as worldwide that are still offering questionable services under the guise of professional massages. Massage Therapy is a broad field that has an ancient history spanning several modalities and in the past some of those modalities included sexual “releases” or just plain sexual acts advertised as Massage.  Today those sexual practices are NOT respected amongst the Professional Modern Massage Therapy  world, as the profession is no longer a field associated with prostitution and sexual acts.  In fact, most places in the US massage therapists are required to have at least a high school diploma and a year or more of schooling, including National or State testing, insurance and licensure!  Schooling involves, detailed anatomy and physiology instruction, massage theory and several hundreds of hours of hands on practice.

Joy not Perversion

Touching and massaging nipples, anus, and genital/pubic areas are defined as inappropriate places to be touched during sessions and are against the law and practice of Massage Therapist in most of the US.

Clients who seek such services must understand that they will be turned away and the session will be canceled. There is no exception or tolerance for inappropriate behavior.

I for sure want all my clients to leave their sessions happy and satisfied, but happy endings will not be the reason why.  The mention of ‘happy endings’ will leave that person quite unhappy because they would not have enjoyed the benefits of a great professional massage.

Massage Therapy is gaining medical prestige and is widely respected among medical professionals.  Most people who have had an issue resolved by massage can attest to its healing capabilities! I look forward to working with you and helping you to experience all that massage therapy has to offer in a safe and respectful environment we both can enjoy!  Looking forward to ending the session with you being happy :-).

 

 

Written by Ayoola Toyer

 

It’s Your Massage, OWN IT! Massage Basics!

Here are some massage basics every client should know before getting a massage.

Communicate– Too often I hear that people are unhappy with their massage experience. My advice, its your massage own it. Most of the time the complaints are things that could have been changed to make the client feel more comfortable. Clients must remember you are paying for a service in which you have certain standards and expectations- It is YOUR massage not the therapist’s massage! If the music is too loud or the room is too hot/cold, let your therapist know.  If you want the lights to be dimmer or you want the pressure of the massage adjusted more than once throughout the massage, let your therapist know. We therapists have not a clue if something hurts or feels good to you. We are trained to use techniques that generally feel good but just because it feels good on most people doesn’t mean you may like it. You have to participate in making your massage a perfect massage for you. If you find that your therapist isn’t interested in meeting your needs, within reason, you can end the massage and find another therapist. Being comfortable during your massage is part of the wellness process.  That being said, also keep in mind that your massage therapist is human and not a robot, he or she may need to pause to take a sip of water and may need to cough like any other person.  Use your better judgement and have realistic expectations of your therapist.

 

If your therapist is offended by your polite yet direct request and you feel like your needs are not being met.  Kindly end the session, you may say ” I am not sure you can provide what I am looking for”  and look for another massage therapist, simple as that.

 

Illness and Massage-there is an endless list of ways in which massage can help several illnesses.  But there are also many illnesses. Which are contraindicated (not recommended.)  Please communicate any and all illnesses, allergies and past injury(s).  If you or your therapist are unsure about if you should receive a massage err on the side of caution and check with your doctor before getting a massage.  It’s better to be safe.

 

Injury and massage– if you have a current or recovering injury let your therapist know.  There is a chance that your therapist could make your injury worse by not knowing specific details about your injury.  If you are an athletic type and have a slight muscle strain that is reoccurring,  massage may help you feel better.   But, the number one solution to pain is rest.  There is a common abbreviation that is often referenced R.I.C.E. (rest, ice, compress and elevate) use this especially with injures that cause swelling and inflammation.  If you have some questions as to the seriousness of your injury please consult with a qualified medical professional.  Massage therapist are trained to relax your muscles and alleviate pain.  We have no way of knowing the severity of an injury.

 

The best advice I can give you is “if you think it say it” the more you communicate to your therapist the better they are able to provide you the massage you were expecting. It’s your massage!

With Cheer,

Ayoola Toyer