How to Avoid Soreness After a Deep Tissue Massage
Have you ever experienced soreness after doing a deep tissue massage? I know that deep tissue work can be really painful, but it is also therapeutic for the muscles. In this article I will lay out the science of why this happens and give you some tips to help calm your body in between massages.
Why do you get sore after deep tissue massage?
Some of the most common causes for neck, shoulder, and back pain can be relieved with a deep tissue massage. However, these causes of pain are not always the only reason people experience discomfort. For some massage therapists, deep tissue massage is synonymous with a lot of DOMS, or delayed onset muscle soreness. This is because many deep tissue massages involve not just work on muscles and fascia, but also work on connective tissues like ligaments and tendons.
What can cause you to feel sore after a deep tissue massage?
The best way to avoid soreness from deep tissue massage is to not push too hard and overexert yourself during the massage. It is also helpful to drink water and take a break every 20 minutes for about 10 minutes.
How can you prevent this pain from happening in the first place?
The first step is to make sure that you are getting a deep tissue massage from a professional, who knows how to work with deep muscles and connective tissue. Secondly, the therapist should use lotion or a cream before or after the massage. Thirdly, try not to take ibuprofen or any pain medications for 8-12 hours after your session. Finally, do not perform any heavy exercise or toning of your muscle groups for at least 24 hours after the treatment.
What are the best ways of soothing soreness after a deep tissue massage?
Soreness, pain, and stiffness are normal following a deep tissue massage. Unfortunately, these uncomfortable sensations can last for a few days or even weeks. The best way to reduce these symptoms is by performing gentle stretches that target the specific sore areas. This will increase blood flow, which will lead to quicker healing. Other ways to reduce soreness after a massage include taking over-the-counter pain relievers, drinking plenty of water, and using ice packs.
Conclusion
When you are going to a deep tissue massage, it is best to go prepared. This will ensure that your massage experience goes smoothly and improves your comfort level. A good way to prevent soreness after a deep tissue massage is by hydrating the area before and during treatment. Another recommendation is drinking some water as soon as possible after the massage, this will keep you hydrated and make digestion easier.
