Muscle pain after a massage is a common occurrence, especially if your muscles were tense or overstressed before the massage. Although massages are meant to provide relaxation and relief, sometimes the intensity of the treatment can lead to mild muscle soreness. This is normal and is often seen as a sign that your body is recovering. Find out why muscle pain occurs after a massage and how to relieve it. More info...
Causes of muscle pain after a massage
1. Release of muscle tension
During a massage, tense muscles are loosened and muscle knots are addressed. This process can cause mild inflammation in the muscle tissue.
- How it works: The massage breaks down adhesions and built-up tension in the muscles. This stimulates the recovery process, which may cause temporary muscle pain.
- Consequence: You may feel a "good kind of muscle soreness," similar to the feeling after an intense workout.
2. Increased blood circulation
Massages promote blood flow, allowing oxygen and nutrients to be transported to the muscles faster.
- How it works: The increased blood flow also drains waste products such as lactic acid faster.
- Consequence: This process can cause a short-term reaction in the muscles, manifesting as muscle pain.
3. Microtraumas in muscle tissue
Intensive massages, such as deep tissue massages, may cause slight damage to muscle fibers.
- How it works: The body responds by activating the recovery process, causing temporary muscle pain.
- Consequence: Muscle soreness can persist for 24 to 48 hours, similar to muscle soreness after strength training.
4. Waste products in the muscles
When your muscles are tense, waste products such as lactic acid accumulate in the tissue. A massage stimulates the removal of these substances.
- How it works: The release of these wastes can cause temporary discomfort while your body removes them from your system.
- Consequence: This may result in mild pain or stiffness.
How long does muscle soreness last after a massage?
Muscle pain after a massage is usually mild and usually lasts no longer than 24 to 48 hours. In some cases, such as after a deep tissue massage, the pain may last a little longer, but it should subside within three days.
How can you relieve muscle pain after a massage?
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Stay hydrated
Drink plenty of water after the massage to drain waste products faster. -
Apply heat
A warm bath or hot compress can help relax tense muscles and reduce pain. -
Light movement
Gentle stretches or a walk promote blood flow and speed up recovery. -
Rest
Give your muscles time to recover by getting plenty of rest. -
Use a massage chair
With a MediRelaxa massage chair you can adjust the intensity of the massage and choose a milder treatment to prevent muscle pain.
How to prevent muscle soreness after a massage?
- Communicate with your masseur: Indicate what intensity you like and what areas are sensitive.
- Choose the right massage: Start with a relaxation massage if you are not used to intensive treatments.
- Hydrate in advance: Make sure you have drunk enough water before undergoing the massage.
- Stretch beforehand: A brief warm-up can help prepare your muscles for the massage.
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About MediRelaxa
MediRelaxa fixes your back pain and mobility while you experience ultimate relaxation at your home or office.
We are based in Westerlo, Belgium and deliver our massage chairs throughout Europe.
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Up to 5 years warranty -
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