Dominic Stone
Massage therapy is generally considered safe, but it can sometimes lead to muscle strain and soreness. This is often due to the intense pressure and manipulation applied to the muscles, causing microscopic tears in the muscle tissue. The body responds to this damage with an inflammatory process, resulting in sensations of soreness and discomfort. While post-massage soreness is common, especially for those new to massage therapy, it typically lasts only a few days and is considered part of the healing process. However, in rare cases, intense massages can cause more severe injuries, such as nerve or spinal injuries, and there is a small risk of stroke or pulmonary embolism associated with neck manipulation.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Muscle strain cause | Intense pressure and manipulation exerted on the muscles |
| Muscle strain cause | Inflammation or minor injuries caused by the manipulation of muscle fibres |
| Muscle strain cause | Microscopic damage to muscle fibres |
| Muscle strain cause | Unconscious ignorance of certain body parts that may be in pain |
| Muscle strain cause | Aggressive massage |
| Muscle strain solution | Light stretching |
| Muscle strain solution | Ice packs |
| Muscle strain solution | Hot shower |
| Muscle strain solution | Epsom salts |
| Muscle strain solution | Heating pad |
| Muscle strain solution | Nonprescription pain relievers |
| Muscle strain solution | Hydration |
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What You'll Learn
Post-massage soreness is common
Post-massage soreness is a common occurrence and can be caused by intense pressure and manipulation of the muscles. This pressure can lead to microscopic tears in the muscle fibres, akin to what happens after strenuous exercise. The body then responds by initiating an inflammatory process, which can cause sensations of soreness or discomfort. This type of muscle pain is more common after deep tissue massages, which involve significant pressure and manipulation of the muscles.
Post-massage soreness is especially common for those new to massage therapy or those who do not get massages regularly. In these cases, the body is not accustomed to being manipulated in certain ways and needs time to adjust and recover. This soreness often lasts from a few hours to a few days and is considered a normal part of the healing process. However, if the pain is severe or persists beyond a few days, it could be due to an underlying condition or untreated injury, and it is recommended to consult a healthcare provider.
To alleviate post-massage soreness, there are several methods that can be employed. Proper hydration is important for muscle recovery. Applying ice packs or taking an ice bath can help reduce inflammation and boost blood flow. Conversely, heat therapy, such as a warm bath or hot shower, can also aid in relaxing tense muscles and relieving stiffness. Light stretching routines can also help ease muscle tension and soreness by enhancing flexibility and promoting blood circulation. Additionally, gentle physical activities like walking or gentle yoga can aid in muscle recovery without exerting excessive strain.
While post-massage soreness is typically a normal and harmless side effect, there are rare cases where massages can cause more serious injuries. For example, aggressive massages can result in nerve injuries, such as radial nerve crush or spinal accessory nerve injury, which can lead to weeks of discomfort and mobility issues. In addition, deep tissue massages carry a small but serious risk of spinal injury, stroke, or pulmonary embolism due to the manipulation of the neck area. Therefore, it is important to communicate with your therapist about the type of massage you desire and any areas of concern or discomfort.
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Deep tissue massages can cause microscopic damage
Massage therapy is generally safe, but it can sometimes cause muscle strain and soreness. Deep tissue massages are a common cause of post-massage soreness, which can last from a few hours to a few days. This soreness is a result of microscopic damage to muscle fibres, similar to what happens after strenuous exercise. The intense pressure and manipulation exerted on the muscles during a deep tissue massage can lead to small tears in the muscle tissue. This is akin to what happens during intense physical exercise, such as microscopic tears in the tendon or tendon sheath caused by overuse or repetitive motion.
Deep tissue massages involve applying sustained pressure using slow, deep strokes to target the inner layers of muscles and connective tissues. This helps to break up scar tissue, reduce tension, and manage pain. While it can be beneficial for treating sports injuries, chronic pain, and certain diseases, the intense pressure can also cause minor muscle crush injuries (rhabdomyolysis). In rare cases, deep tissue massages have been associated with nerve injuries, such as spinal accessory nerve injury, resulting in weeks of discomfort.
It is important to note that deep tissue massages are contraindicated during the acute stage of a muscle or tendon strain. Additionally, individuals with osteoporosis or cancer that has spread to the bones should avoid deep tissue massages as the firm pressure may cause fractures. Pregnant individuals are also advised to hold off on deep tissue massages. Instead, gentler types of massages, such as Swedish massage, may be recommended.
To alleviate post-massage soreness, understanding the causes and knowing effective relief methods can help improve the massage experience and ensure long-term muscle health. While post-massage soreness is common, any pain lasting longer than a week should be assessed by a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying pathologies.
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Massage can cause nerve injuries
Massage therapy is quite safe, but it can sometimes cause nerve injuries. While nerves are not as vulnerable to pressure as some people think, applying too much pressure in the wrong place can injure a nerve. For example, in a 2017 incident, a woman's radial nerve was crushed by an aggressive massage in her upper, inner arm. This is a rare occurrence, but it does happen.
Deep tissue massages, in particular, can cause trouble by applying excessive pressure, leading to a "muscle crush" injury called rhabdomyolysis ("rhabdo"). This occurs when the kidneys are poisoned by myoglobin from injured muscles. While true rhabdomyolysis is a medical emergency, milder forms can be caused by intense exercise or deep tissue massage.
Additionally, massage therapy can sometimes make existing nerve issues worse. For example, axillary nerve entrapment can feel worse before it feels better. In some cases, inexperienced therapists may not know when to be careful in sensitive areas, leading to further destabilization.
It is important to note that not all nerve injuries can be treated with massage therapy. Before pursuing massage therapy for nerve issues, it is recommended to consult a doctor first. Massage therapy may be advised in cases of neuropraxia, a mild form of nerve injury where nerve transmissions become blocked but the nerve fibers remain intact. However, more severe nerve injuries, such as axonotmesis, which involves damage to nerve axons, may require different treatments.
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Post-massage, rest and gentle stretching can help
Massage therapy is generally safe, but it can sometimes cause muscle strain. This strain results from intense pressure and manipulation exerted on the muscles, leading to microscopic damage that needs time to heal. This is similar to what happens after a strenuous workout, where small tears in the muscle tissue can occur. The body responds to this damage with an inflammatory process, which can cause sensations of soreness or discomfort. Typically, the soreness should gradually decrease within 24 to 48 hours as the muscles recover. However, if the pain is severe or persists beyond a few days, it is recommended to consult a doctor.
It is important to listen to your body and not push yourself beyond your comfort level when stretching. Your massage therapist can recommend specific stretches based on your individual needs and limitations. Some simple stretches that can be done post-massage include slowly bending at the waist or stretching out your pectoral muscles through the front of your chest to help open up your shoulders.
Another way to enhance the effects of a massage is to increase your water intake. Massage can release naturally occurring toxins and extra waste into the body, creating extra work for the lymphatic system. Drinking water helps to flush out these toxins and clear them from your system. It is also recommended to avoid alcoholic, sugary, and caffeinated beverages, as these can be dehydrating.
Overall, post-massage rest, gentle stretching, and proper hydration can help to alleviate muscle soreness and prolong the benefits of a massage.
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Massage can cause muscle strain if you have a weak core
Massage therapy is generally considered safe, but it can occasionally cause new physical injuries, such as minor bruises, nerve lesions, or, in rare cases, spinal injury. Post-massage muscle soreness is a common occurrence, especially after deep tissue massages, which involve significant pressure and manipulation of the muscles. This soreness is a result of microscopic tears in the muscle fibres, akin to what happens after strenuous exercise. The body responds to this damage with an inflammatory process, which can cause sensations of soreness and discomfort. Typically, this soreness should decrease within 24 to 48 hours as the muscles recover, and it is considered a normal part of the healing process.
However, in some cases, massage can potentially cause muscle strain that lasts longer than the typical recovery period. This may be due to the massage therapist unintentionally releasing supportive tension, which can highlight existing issues, such as a weak core. For example, if you have a weak core and experience back pain, the initial ache and tension in the back may be providing stability to the region. A massage can loosen this stability, causing the brain to compensate by tensing more muscles around the area, leading to prolonged muscle strain.
It is important to note that this prolonged muscle strain is not a common reaction to massage and should be assessed by a healthcare professional. If you are experiencing muscle soreness after a massage, there are several ways to find relief. Proper hydration, rest, gentle stretching, and heat therapy can help ease muscle tension and soreness. Additionally, nonprescription pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can be used cautiously and under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
To prevent prolonged muscle soreness after a massage, it is recommended to opt for massages that use light, gentle pressure, especially if you are super sensitive or have a lot of pain or tension. Communicating your intentions for the massage and any medical concerns or injuries to your therapist is crucial. Regular massages can also help your body create muscle memory and get accustomed to being manipulated in certain ways, reducing the likelihood of prolonged soreness.
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Frequently asked questions
Massage therapy is generally safe, but it can occasionally cause new physical injuries, such as minor bruises, nerve lesions, or even spinal injuries. Post-massage muscle soreness is common and results from intense pressure and manipulation exerted on the muscles, leading to microscopic damage that needs time to heal.
Post-massage soreness usually lasts from a few hours to a few days. It should not be a cause for concern unless the pain is severe or persists beyond a few days.
You can relieve post-massage soreness through proper hydration, gentle stretching, heat therapy, and rest. Applying ice packs or taking an ice bath can also help reduce inflammation and boost blood flow.
Your body may feel worse after a massage because you are new to massages, or your muscles aren't accustomed to it. In the same way that your body gets used to working out, your muscles need time to adjust to being manipulated in certain ways.
If you experience pain that is severe or long-lasting, consult a doctor to rule out any underlying conditions or untreated injuries.
