Massage is an ancient form of bodywork which has been practiced in many cultures for centuries. People of many nations receive massage for relaxation and general health, as well as bodywork for specific issues. Especially after receiving deep work, it is not unusual to experience soreness after massage, although pain or soreness lasting more than one or two days may be a cause for concern. There are some things clients can do to reduce soreness after massage, if they are worried about it.
One of the major factors which causes soreness is the type of massage. Many types of massage are like a workout for the body, even when the client is lying still. Shiatsu and deep tissue, for example, involve extensive muscle manipulation which can result in soreness after massage because the body is unaccustomed to the sensation. Thai massage is another type of massage which may lead to soreness, because the body is flexed and stretched. If you are concerned about soreness after massage, you can ask a massage therapist about what you should expect after the massage.
Swedish massage, pregnancy massage, acupressure, and Lomi Lomi are some types of massage which are much less likely to result in soreness. All of these types of massage are very gentle and non-invasive. This is one of the reasons they are performed on people with disabilities, since they are less intense than deep work, and they still help to relax the body, promote circulation, and make someone feel more healthy. For people with compromised health, soreness after massage is not desired, so a more gentle type of bodywork is recommended.
A good massage will help to flush toxins out of the muscles. This can lead to soreness after massage, as the body works to express the toxins. Drinking lots of water before and immediately after a session can help reduce the feeling of soreness. It is also an excellent idea to get in the habit of drinking water regularly anyway, since water is generally beneficial for human health. Many massage therapists also recommend eating a healthy diet to keep the body in good shape.
Communicating with a massage therapist is also important if you want to reduce the probability of soreness after massage and get the most benefits from the session. Massage should not be painful, although it may be intense. If you experience pain during a massage, it will translate into soreness later. Make sure to outline your expectations for the session before you begin, and do not be afraid to speak out about pain. Every body is slightly different, and your feedback helps the massage therapist to adjust his or her technique for comfort and maximum effectiveness. Pain is not productive, since it causes tension during the session. This, in turn, will result in soreness after massage, because the muscles were not relaxed during the session.