Experiencing post-massage soreness is normal, especially if it's been a while since you've last had a massage or if you've never gotten one before. To find out more about why you experience massage soreness and how to reduce any discomfort it can cause, continue reading.
Why Does Your Body Feel Sore After a Massage?
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During a deep tissue massage, massage therapists stretch your muscles using several deep pressure techniques. Some frequently used methods to stimulate muscle relaxation include trigger point therapy, myofascial release, and cross-fiber friction.
When you receive a deep tissue massage, your muscles experience microscopic tears. As a result of these tears, fluids begin to build up to give the blood and lymph fluid the nutrition and oxygen they need to repair themselves. This can cause delayed onset muscle soreness and you might experience it if you haven't been getting regular massages or if the massage was more intense than usual.
How Do You Treat Sore Muscles After a Massage?
Any soreness felt after a massage will often go away in a day or two. In the meantime, there are numerous techniques to soothe any discomfort that may be present:
1) Drink Plenty of Water
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Make sure to drink plenty of water both before and after your massage. The water will cleanse any toxins that came to the surface during your massage. Don't forget to refrain from consuming any alcoholic or caffeinated beverages. Besides water, you can hydrate yourself with coconut water, fruit or vegetable juice, or a cup of herbal tea.
2) Do a Few Light Stretches
After your massage, gently stretch your muscles every hour or so. Stretching can ease muscle tension and increase flexibility. A good stretch can also increase blood flow, which will hasten your sore muscles' recovery.
3) Use a Massage Ball
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Massage balls are an effective way to relieve painful muscles and boost blood circulation. As mentioned above, increased blood flow can hasten recovery time after a massage.
If you're looking for massage balls to relieve sore muscles, make sure to check out Acupoint. These massage balls are a great tool to reduce chronic pain and any other muscle pain. They are produced from premium, non-toxic rubber that is long-lasting and does not smell.
4) Consider Heat Therapy
Because warm water softens and makes your muscles more pliable, heat treatment can help relieve muscle pain. If you're feeling sore, try a sauna, or a hot shower. A hot bath with Epsom salts is one of the best treatments for muscles that are tight and stiff. If you don't have time for a hot bath, apply a heating pad or rice bag to any tight or sore areas of your body.
5) Apply a Cold Compress
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If you experience any swelling after a massage, a cold compress can help ease stiffness. Apply a cold icepack wrapped in a cloth to the swollen area(s) for about ten minutes, then take it off for another ten. Continue doing this till you feel better.
6) Use Essential Oils
In addition to having a calming effect on the body and mind, lavender and other calming essential oils can also relieve muscle tension. All you need to do is add a few drops of essential oils to your bathtub or a nearby diffuser to feel better.
7) Have a Good Night’s Sleep
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One of the best methods for your body to heal itself is to get a good night's sleep. Since massages can help you sleep better, the two combined could be exactly what your body needs to fully benefit from the massage.
8) Try Herbal Treatments
Did you know that some herbs can lessen inflammation symptoms and soothe muscle tension? Herbs including cinnamon, ginger, clove, and turmeric can be taken as pills or added to tea.
9) Consider Using Supplements
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Supplements, such as Omega-3 capsules, can help to lessen stiffness and inflammation in your muscles for up to 48 hours. Before beginning any new supplement regimen, be sure to see your doctor to establish the best course of action for you.
10) Make Another Appointment
Consistent massage therapy is the best way to see the biggest physical changes in your body. Think of a muscle that is first tight and sore, then gets stretched out by massage. If the muscle is not stretched out once more, it will eventually return to being tight and painful. However, if the muscle is treated consistently and regularly, it will start to develop muscle memory and start to maintain that state for extended periods.
Summary
Nothing can soothe your body and quiet your mind like a quality massage treatment. It can be difficult to know what to do if you have pain after a deep tissue massage. The numerous methods to lessen the discomfort and side effects of deep tissue massage are listed above. To get the most out of your sessions, express any discomfort, requests, or worries to your massage therapist during your session.
