Massages are a great way to relax and rejuvenate the body, but it is not uncommon to feel sore after a massage, especially if it was a deep tissue or trigger point massage.
Here’s why it’s normal to feel sore after a massage and what you can do to relieve the soreness:
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Why it’s normal to feel sore after a massage
During a massage, the therapist applies pressure to the muscles to release tension and knots.
This can cause the muscles to become sore as they adjust to the new sensation.
The soreness is similar to the soreness you might feel after a workout or other physical activity.
The soreness should go away within a day or two, but it can vary depending on the individual and the severity of the muscle tension.
If the soreness persists for more than a few days, it is a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider or massage therapist.
Related – Here’s why you might have a sore throat after a massage.
How long after a massage will I be sore?
The length of time you will be sore after a massage will depend on the individual and the type of massage you received.
Some people may feel sore for just a few hours, while others may experience soreness for a day or two.
In general, the soreness should go away within a few days.
If the soreness persists for longer than a few days or becomes more severe, it is a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider or massage therapist.
What should I do to relieve soreness after a massage?
There are a few things you can do to help relieve soreness after a massage:
- Apply ice to the sore areas to reduce swelling and inflammation if applicable.
- Take a warm bath or shower to help relax the muscles.
- Drink plenty of water to help flush out toxins and promote healing.
- Consider taking an over-the-counter pain medication, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to help reduce discomfort.
- Gently stretch the sore muscles to help reduce tightness.
- Avoid activities that require a lot of physical exertion until the soreness has subsided.
You really shouldn’t have to do much, however, if your neck is really sore or the pain is persisting you should consult with your healthcare provider or massage therapist.
They can assess the situation and recommend any additional treatments that may be needed.
Can you get a neck injury from a massage?
It is rare to experience a neck injury from a massage, but it is possible if the therapist applies too much pressure or uses improper technique.
It is always a good idea to communicate with your therapist about your comfort level and any areas of concern.
If you experience a neck injury from a massage, it is important to seek medical attention right away.
Symptoms of a neck injury may include severe pain, difficulty moving the neck, numbness or tingling, and weakness in the arms or hands.
Why you should always tell your therapist how you feel after a massage
It is important to communicate with your therapist about how you feel after a massage, including any soreness or discomfort you may be experiencing.
This will help the therapist tailor the massage to your specific needs and ensure that you are receiving the best possible care.
If you experience any adverse reactions or injuries from a massage, it is important to report them to your therapist and seek medical attention as needed.
Overall, it is normal to feel sore after a massage, but it is important to pay attention to your body and communicate with your therapist to ensure that you are receiving the best care possible.
Related – Here is why you might have cold-like symptoms or even diarrhea after a massage.
Is it normal to be sore a week after a massage?
If you’re still sore after a week, whether it’s your neck or another area of your body, it is not normal, no.
If you are still experiencing pain or discomfort one week after your massage, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider or massage therapist.
They can assess the situation and recommend any additional treatments that may be needed.
Additionally, they can help determine if there are any underlying conditions that may be causing the soreness.
It is important to address any issues as soon as possible to ensure optimal health and wellbeing, don’t ever keep suffering in silence.
Image credits – Photo by Angélica Echeverry on Unsplash
I’m a MA, (CMT) Certified Massage Therapist, Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT), and Reiki Master — I’m a licensed massage therapist with over 10 years of experience in the industry.