What massage is best for muscle aches?

Author: Elsa Robel  |  Last update: Tuesday, May 27, 2025

If you're suffering from muscle aches, Swedish and deep tissue massages can be especially helpful. Swedish massages aim to relieve tension with long, kneading strokes and rhythmic tapping, and deep tissue massages apply pressure to areas that are tight with stress.

What type of massage is best for muscle pain?

Deep Tissue Massage.

Deep tissue massage focuses on manipulation of both top and deeper layers of muscles and tissues, often requiring intense, focused pressure by the therapist. Deep tissue massage is designed to address severe tension or pain in the muscles and connective tissues.

Should you massage aching muscles?

Massage can assist the healing of damaged fibers by increasing blood circulation. Increased blood circulation provides an increase of oxygen and nutrients to an area. An increase of oxygen and nutrients can help repair fibers, decreasing inflammation and pain. Massage can help reduce muscle tightness caused by DOMS.

Should I do Swedish or Deep Tissue massage?

If you need to relax your muscles and overcome fatigue, go for the Swedish massage. But if you have painful or stiff muscles, a deep-tissue massage would do a better job. It's also an excellent choice for people who train hard, like athletes.

What is the best anti-inflammatory massage?

Deep Tissue Massage

A deep-tissue massage might be more effective for deeper inflammation. This massage technique targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. It's particularly useful for chronic muscle tension and inflammation, as it can release chronic body tension patterns.

Why do I get sore after a massage?

What is the best pain relief for inflamed muscles?

NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), like aspirin and ibuprofen, also reduce inflammation. Topical treatments. Topical pain relievers can help relieve localized muscle pain. Look for ingredients like menthol, capsaicin or lidocaine, which can numb the area to reduce soreness.

Who should not get a deep tissue massage?

People with Certain Medical Conditions. While deep tissue massage can be beneficial for many, it's not recommended for everyone. If you have certain medical conditions, such as osteoporosis, cancer, or blood clotting disorders, it's best to steer clear of deep tissue work unless your doctor gives you the green light.

What is the most pleasurable type of massage?

The Most Relaxing Types of Massages
  • Swedish Massage. The most common type of massage therapy, Swedish massage will help to relax you with a combination of specific movements including: ...
  • Hot Stone Massage. Another very relaxing type of massage is the hot stone massage. ...
  • Chair Massage. ...
  • Aromatherapy Massage.

Do Swedish massages help muscle pain?

The benefits of Swedish massage include reduced muscle tension, improved circulation, enhanced relaxation, increased flexibility, and relief from stress and anxiety. It may also help alleviate pain and improve sleep quality. Swedish massage is generally not painful. It is designed to be relaxing and soothing.

What is better deep tissue massage or chiropractor?

To address spinal misalignment, arthritis, frequent headaches and more, you may want to seek the services of a chiropractor. For those needing relaxation or recovery, seek out massage therapy to target muscle tension and promote healing. At Live Fit Gym, the focus is on holistic health and wellness.

When should you not massage a muscle?

An acute injury is a sudden, sharp, traumatic injury that causes pain. Typically the result of an impact or trauma such as a fall, strain, sprain or collision. Massage shouldn't be performed on the injured site because it encourages circulation and can increase swelling during the body's initial response to injury.

How do you get rid of body aches without massage?

Heat or cold – use ice packs immediately after an injury to reduce swelling. Heat packs are better for relieving chronic muscle or joint injuries. Physical therapies – such as walking, stretching, strengthening or aerobic exercises may help reduce pain, keep you mobile and improve your mood.

Should you massage gun sore muscles?

Massage guns can provide a range of benefits to ease muscle soreness and pain, including: Reduced pain and muscle tension. Massage guns can ease muscle tension by gently working out kinks or tight spots in a muscle that may be causing tightness, pain, or cramping.

What is the most requested massage?

Swedish massage is arguably considered the most popular massage type, appearing on a majority of spa menus worldwide. This Western massage utilizes the following techniques—effleurage (stroking), friction (rubbing), petrissage (kneading) and tapotement (rhythmic choppings)—for a truly relaxing spa treatment experience.

Which massage is good for muscle?

A deep tissue massage can be used to maintain healthy muscles. A deep tissue massage uses a variety of pressures throughout on areas of the body containing soft tissues. A deep tissue massage gets deep within muscle fibres aiming to break down adhesions, increase muscle flexibility and increase range of movement.

Do you wear clothes for a Swedish massage?

Most clients choose to completely undress, leaving only their underwear on, as this allows the therapist to access and work on different areas of the body effectively.

What are the disadvantages of a Swedish massage?

Let's take a closer look at the disadvantages of Swedish massage and when it might not be the best option.
  • Risk of Bruising or Soreness. ...
  • Not Suitable for Certain Health Conditions. ...
  • Temporary Dizziness or Fatigue.

Why does my body hurt after a Swedish massage?

Soreness after a massage typically lasts between 24 to 48 hours and is a normal part of the body's response to the treatment. This type of discomfort is often a sign that the massage was effective in addressing muscle tension and promoting circulation.

What type of massage is best for inflammation?

Lymphatic massage may reduce swelling in your body and make it easier for your lymph nodes to get rid of toxins. Lymphatic drainage massage benefits may include: Immune system support.

How often should you get a massage?

1. What are the general massage frequency guidelines? It is generally recommended to get a massage once a month to maintain the benefits of relaxation and stress relief. However, some individuals may benefit from more frequent sessions, especially if they have specific health concerns or physical discomfort.

How do I know which massage I need?

Massage: Which Type Is Right For Me?
  1. Best Massage for First Timers – Swedish Massage. ...
  2. Best Massage for Relaxation – Hot Stone Massage. ...
  3. Best Massage for Tension Relief – Deep Tissue Massage. ...
  4. Best Mood-Lifting Massage – Aromatherapy Massage. ...
  5. Best Massage for Knots – Trigger Point Massage.

What body parts should not be massaged?

These are areas of the body where deep, sustained pressure should be avoided because of the structures that lie beneath. Those areas are the anterior and posterior triangles of the neck, suprasternal notch, sternum, axilla, spinal column, umbilical area, inguinal triangle, popliteal fossa, and the antecubital fossa.

Is it better to get a massage at night or morning?

If you have a busy lifestyle and seek relaxation after a long day of work and family commitments, an evening or before-bed massage can help you relax your body and mind. On the other hand, a morning or afternoon massage can increase your energy levels and help you face the day.

Why can't you shower after deep tissue massage?

After a massage, your body is in a state of relaxation and recovery, and the massage oils applied to your skin continue to nourish it. Taking a hot bath immediately could strip away these benefits. Generally, it's recommended to wait at least two to three hours after a massage before taking a bath.

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