Why do I feel tighter after a massage?

Author: Thurman Lubowitz  |  Last update: Wednesday, April 30, 2025

Post massage soreness occurs more commonly if you receive a deep tissue massage. During a treatment, an RMT stretches out muscles to release any knots, tightness, and pain that may exist. This, in itself, may cause a bit of discomfort afterwards, depending on the severity of pain you had going into the massage.

Is it normal to feel loopy after a massage?

This is completely normal and may be a result of the massage releasing tension and reducing both mental and physical stress. Essentially, massage relaxes both the mind and body which, for some people, can result in mental tiredness or physical body fatigue.

What are the symptoms of detoxing after a massage?

Hydrating and resting can help alleviate these symptoms. After a massage, mild detox symptoms can occur as the body eliminates toxins. Common symptoms include fatigue, muscle soreness, and headaches due to the release of lactic acid and other waste products.

Does massage tighten muscles?

Massage relaxes the muscles, separating and loosening muscles fibres. The muscles are elongated and stretched which releases tension and allows more movement. Massage reduces tightness by applying pressure to knots and breaking adhesions. Pressure points can be used to force out knots in the muscle.

Why do my knots feel worse after a massage?

If you're experiencing muscle soreness after a massage it is because the soft tissues have been manipulated to break down adhesions, knots and holding patterns to restore muscle condition to a functional state.

Why do I get sore after a 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.

Why do I feel loose after a massage?

After getting a massage, you'll likely feel loose and maybe even a little lightheaded for several hours after. It's also possible you may feel sore or sensitive if you received a deep tissue massage; as these massages involve intense stimulation to muscle groups across your body.

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.

What does it mean when a massage therapist says you're tight?

4 Talking about tightness suggests an uncanny ability to feel your pain. The therapist is saying, in effect, “I can tell that you are feeling stiff, because I can feel your tight muscles.” This is a good way to impress anyone with a body.

What does lymphatic drainage feel like?

It's gentle and rhythmic, you might even feel like you're underwater or floating during the session. We tend to underestimate lymphatic work because it is so relaxing and subtle, but it's very powerful.

How do you know if you got a bad massage?

Experiencing sharp pain or excessive discomfort during or after the session is a clear indication that the massage wasn't beneficial. While some discomfort can be normal, especially with deep tissue massage, it should never cross the line into sharp pain.

What chemical is released after a massage?

Endorphins. While technically not a toxin, the release of endorphins during a massage is a significant benefit. These "feel-good" hormones naturally boost mood and relieve pain.

Why do I feel spaced out after massage?

The physiological changes like increased blood flow and reduced heart rate, combined with the psychological relief from stress, create an environment where the body feels more at ease but also more tired. Understanding these factors can help you better prepare for and manage post-massage fatigue.

How often should you get massages?

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.

What are the side effects of a deep tissue massage?

Potential Risks of Deep Tissue Massage
  • Bruising and Soreness. Let's start with the most common side effect: bruising and soreness. ...
  • Increased Pain.
  • Nerve Damage. In rare cases, deep tissue massage can lead to nerve damage. ...
  • Muscle and Joint Pain. ...
  • Swelling. ...
  • Headaches. ...
  • Dizziness and Nausea. ...
  • People with Certain Medical Conditions.

What kind of massage do men like?

Types of men's massage
  • Swedish massage.
  • Deep tissue massage.
  • Lymphatic massage.
  • Sports massage.
  • Oncology massage.
  • Hot stone massage.
  • Aromatherapy massage.
  • Thai massage.

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.

How do you know if a massage therapist is good?

Check credentials.

Make sure the massage therapist you are considering has the proper credentials. He or she should be certified or licensed by a recognized organization. Check to see if the organization requires continuing education or if it has a code of ethics.

Can massage therapists feel knots?

In conclusion, yes, massage therapists can indeed feel knots in your muscles. Through their extensive training and experience, they have honed their ability to detect areas of tension and release them effectively.

Why do I lose weight after massage?

Lymphatic drainage massage may improve the appearance of cellulite but will not get rid of it completely. The most likely cause of weight loss immediately following the massage is the loss of excess fluid and potential bowel movement that occurs afterwards.

Does massage tighten the body?

Yes, lymphatic massage can help tighten skin. By removing excess fluid and waste products from the body, lymphatic massage can reduce puffiness and swelling, helping to tighten and firm the skin.

What areas are off limits during a massage?

These include direct manipulation of the spine, the front of the neck, and any visibly injured or inflamed areas.

What is the most relaxing body part to massage?

Choosing Your Massage Focus Target Spots
  • ➪ Head. In our view, a head massage is a great choice for some extra focus, as it can be highly relaxing yet revitalising at the same time. ...
  • ➪ Neck & Shoulders. One of Top 3 selected body parts. ...
  • ➪ Back. ...
  • ➪ Buttocks. ...
  • ➪ Thighs. ...
  • ➪ Calves. ...
  • ➪ Feet. ...
  • ➪ Arms & Hands.

What not to say during a massage?

Here are some examples of what you, as the client, should never do! :
  • Don't joke if this is a “happy ending" massage or make any sexual comments. ...
  • Don't get sexually excited, it's inappropriate. ...
  • Don't break wind. ...
  • Avoid talking too much. ...
  • Don't use your phone. ...
  • Don't be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

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