Two common questions new patients often ask are, “Is it normal to feel more pain for a few days after a massage?” and “Why am I sore after my massage?”
When you’re receiving a massage, the therapist is applying pressure through multiple layers of skin, fascia, and muscle. To reach deeper muscles, the therapist must work through the layers above. If the massage is firm enough, it can cause tiny, harmless tears in the tissues closer to the surface—what we call “micro-trauma.” This is similar to what happens when you work out at the gym and experience soreness afterward. These tiny injuries can lead to slight inflammation and, in some cases, minor bruising.
It’s the inflammation caused by this micro-trauma that typically leads to the soreness you may feel after your massage. This discomfort may sometimes be accompanied by muscle spasms, which is your body’s natural way of protecting the area.
You may then ask, “Is it ok to be sore after a massage?”
It depends. Mild soreness after a massage is normal, especially if you’ve had a deep tissue session or if it was your first time being massaged. This soreness typically goes away within 24-48 hours. However, if the pain lasts longer than a few days, is very intense, or you notice unusual bruising, it may be a sign that the pressure used was too aggressive for your body. In that case, it’s a good idea to reach out to your massage therapist to adjust future treatments.
In my 20 years of practice, I’ve learned that every body is different. Some clients thrive on deep pressure and find it therapeutic, while others prefer a gentler touch and still achieve fantastic results. That’s why it’s so important to communicate with your therapist about your comfort level and how your body responds after each session. At the end of the day, your massage should feel right for you.
If you are experiencing mild soreness after a massage, here are a few things you can do to help ease the discomfort:
- Hydrate: Drinking water helps flush out toxins that are released during the massage.
- Easy Movement: Gentle movement, like light stretching or even going for a walk can keep the muscles loose and promote faster recovery.
- Rest: Give your body time to recover by avoiding intense workouts immediately after a deep tissue massage.
By taking care of your body after a massage, you can enhance the benefits and reduce the likelihood of lingering discomfort.
Learn more about Acacia’s massage therapy services.
