The problem was a language-based issue. I have a medical condition that is serious, it's called lymphoedema. I explained that I couldn't have my lymph pushed away from my heart on my left arm, and that this would be serious if the massage practitioner got it wrong. I explained this to the TCM doctor who was on duty at the salon. She said she'd understood and had told the person who was massaging me. But - she repeatedly tried to push my lymph away from my heart - like a number of times, and made a game of it. I came away from the massage feeling mildly violated and more tense than when I'd arrived as I was anxious she was going to mess up my arm.