As a massage therapist with years of experience, I am often asked by my clients how long they should rest after a deep tissue massage. And my answer is always the same - it's best to wait about 24 hours. But why is this the case? Well, it all comes down to muscle recovery. Just like how muscles need time to heal after a workout, they also need time to heal after a deep tissue massage. This type of massage involves breaking down muscle fibers, transferring blood and lactic acids internally, and causing the body to heal on its own.
It's almost like a mini-operation for your muscles. So, it's crucial to give your body enough time to rest and recover after a deep tissue massage. Avoid any strenuous activities for at least 24 hours. This includes any movements that apply deep pressure along the muscle fibers and across their grains. While some clients may experience pain or discomfort after their first deep tissue massage, with regular sessions, many report that this pain diminishes over time. If you want to see the full benefits of a deep tissue massage, make sure you get enough sleep at night.
Getting one massage is good, but regular sessions can lead to more significant improvements in your overall well-being. With just the touch of a button, you can book your next deep tissue massage session (or try out one of the many other massage techniques) and increase the benefits you receive. After your massage, it's essential to take some necessary steps to maximize its benefits. First and foremost, drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and reduce any post-massage side effects such as pain or nausea. If you have scar tissue, a deep tissue massage can help release tension and promote greater flexibility in that area. It's also crucial to give your body time to rest and recover after a deep tissue massage.
This means avoiding any strenuous activities and allowing your muscles to heal properly. While the benefits of a deep tissue massage can last up to a week, it's recommended to schedule regular sessions for long-term improvements in your muscle health. It's normal to experience some tenderness in your muscles after a deep tissue massage. This is often described as similar to DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness). It's just your body's response to the soft tissue damage and inflammation that occurs during the massage.