(HealthDay News) -- Many people say there's nothing quite as soothing as a deep, penetrating massage.

But massage isn't a cure-all, and you should take precautions. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health advises:

  • Massage therapy should not be used in place of a doctor's care.
  • Tell your doctor about your plans for massage therapy, and ask the physician if massage therapy is right for you.
  • Before your first session, speak with the massage therapist about his or her credentials, experience, training, cost and number of advised sessions.