Should deep tissue massages hurt?

[walksideways]

I had one done two years ago and it hurt like a mother but I felt so much better for like 1 month.
I had one done today and it didnt hurt but it felt nice-now I have a horrible headache..

 

[creed]

the biggest reason for an ache after a massage is your level of tension;; not uncommon the first time because you are probably guarding because ya just don't know what to expect;; a good therapist will sense the tension & keep prompting you to relax;; there is a distinct difference between the tension from guarding & a 'tense' muscle..trigger points tell ya everything;; anyhow...the second time, I can almost guarantee that you 'remembered' the 'better effects', relaxed the part, but either applied your 'guard' to your neck, or didn't truly feel 'rested' with your head positioning...third time's a charm!!..for your headache;; chin tucks help. esp if ya can catch it early...'like an Egyptian" straight back, not bending...