Should My Deep Tissue Massage Hurt?
Have you ever gone in for a massage in pain and come out with the same pain or maybe more? Deep tissue massages may cause you a little discomfort or slight pain in the areas that are causing you trouble. Discomfort is normal with this type of massage therapy. Most clients say it’s a “good hurt” where it’s a little uncomfortable but feels good at the same time. Keep reading to learn what to expect when you get a deep tissue massage.
What is a Deep Tissue Massage?
First, deep tissue massage therapy requires firm pressure in order to reach the deeper layers of muscle. This type of therapy is effective in relieving pain and chronic aches. The most common areas of the body to receive this massage is on the upper back, lower back and in the neck area. Some (especially athletes) may also ask for this therapy for the leg and shoulder area.
No Pain, No Gain?
Just like soreness post-workout, pain isn’t a sign that your deep tissue massage was effective. If you end up feeling pain during your massage and it’s not tolerable, you should always let your massage therapist know. Your therapist will be able to use different pressure and adjust how they proceed with the rest of your massage therapy session.
What to Expect After a Deep Tissue Massage
Since a deep tissue massage requires firm pressure, after your deep tissue massage you may notice:
Sore or aching muscles
This may feel like you just had a good workout. The soreness should go away after 24-36 hours. Some people find that drinking a little extra water may help with the soreness.
Pain
Pain may occur because your muscles are not used to the deep treatment. This should subside. However if it does not, you should contact your massage therapist immediately and ice your back or the point of soreness. After a deep tissue massage, you may experience a slight headache, which is fairly common and also subsides with time.
Sleepiness
After the massage, it is common to feel tired or fatigued. This may occur due to the fact your muscles are (finally) relaxing and/or your stress has been relieved. This effect shouldn’t last too long after your treatment and it is fine to sleep after a massage. In some cases, people even fall asleep during a massage!
Remember, you want your deep tissue massage to be beneficial to your body not harmful. If you are highly uncomfortable during your massage, make sure to let your Tampa massage therapist know. Ready to get a deep tissue massage? Schedule a massage with the licensed massage therapists at Tampa Bay Sports & Medical Massage today! At our South Tampa massage center, we fix broken people.