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Therapeutic Massage Same-Day Care: Living Well With Ongoing Symptoms
Summary
Experiencing discomfort after a therapeutic massage is quite normal. This handout will guide you through managing symptoms and knowing when to seek further help. Following these tips can help make your recovery smoother and more comfortable.
What Is This & Why It Matters
Therapeutic massage is a treatment used to relieve pain, reduce swelling, and improve movement in your body. It can be particularly helpful for managing chronic conditions like back pain or arthritis. While the massage itself is usually relaxing, it's common to feel some discomfort afterward. This is because your muscles and tissues are adjusting to the treatment. It's important to know how to care for yourself after the session and recognize when you might need to contact your healthcare provider.
What You Should Do
- Take ibuprofen (a type of pain reliever) in doses of 400-600 mg every 6-8 hours with food to help with pain and swelling.
- Apply an ice pack to the sore area for 20 minutes, then remove it for another 20 minutes. Repeat this process for the first 48 hours post-massage.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and help flush out toxins from your body.
- Try gentle stretching exercises to maintain flexibility without straining your muscles.
- Get plenty of rest. Allow your body time to heal and recover from the massage.
- Schedule a follow-up appointment with your therapist or doctor within 2-7 days as recommended by current guidelines.
- Monitor your symptoms closely and keep track of any changes or improvements.
What You Should NOT Do
- Don't ignore severe pain that doesn't improve or gets worse over time.
- Avoid applying heat directly to the sore area, as it may increase swelling.
- Don't engage in heavy lifting or strenuous exercise immediately after your massage.
- Refrain from taking more ibuprofen than recommended, as it can harm your stomach.
- Avoid alcohol consumption, as it can dehydrate you and slow down recovery.
Symptoms: Normal vs Warning Signs
Normal (Don't Worry)
- Mild soreness in treated areas, similar to post-exercise muscle ache.
- Slight swelling around the areas that were massaged.
- Feeling tired or sleepy after the session; this is a common response as your body relaxes.
- Bruising at specific points where pressure was applied during the massage.
Call Your Doctor If...
- A fever that goes above 101°F — this could indicate infection.
- Pain intensity reaching more than 8 out of 10 on a pain scale — consider this severe pain.
- Bleeding from any part of the body following the massage — this is not typical.
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath — seek immediate medical attention.
- Persistent dizziness or feeling faint — this could be a sign of a more serious issue.
FAQ
Why am I feeling sore after my massage?
It's normal to feel sore as your muscles adjust after being worked on during the massage.
How long should I use ice after my massage?
Apply ice for 20 minutes at a time, then take a break for another 20 minutes. Do this for up to 48 hours.
Can I take a hot shower after my massage?
It's best to avoid hot showers right away as they can increase swelling. Try lukewarm water instead.
Is it okay to exercise after my massage?
Give yourself a day or two to rest before resuming intense physical activities.
What if I feel dizzy after my massage?
Mild dizziness can occur due to relaxation but should pass quickly. If it persists, contact your healthcare provider.
Should I continue taking my regular medications?
Yes, continue any medications prescribed by your doctor unless advised otherwise.
How soon will I see improvements?
Some people feel immediate relief, while others notice gradual improvement over several sessions.
What if I still feel uncomfortable days later?
If discomfort persists beyond a few days without improvement, reach out to your healthcare provider for advice.