Is It Normal to Feel Sore After a Massage? 🤔
- leefletcher814
- Aug 17
- 3 min read
At Indulge Massage Therapy in Doncaster, one of the most common questions I get asked is:
“Is it normal to feel sore after a massage?”
The short answer? Yes - absolutely. In fact, a little post-massage soreness isn’t just normal, it’s often a good sign your body is responding well and starting to release long-held tension.
💥 Why You Might Feel Sore After a Massage
Just like a gym session can leave you with DOMS (Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness), a massage, especially deep tissue, sports or remedial work can have a similar effect.
Here’s what’s going on behind the scenes:
🟠 1. Muscle Manipulation
Massage works by applying targeted pressure to break down knots and stretch tight muscle fibres. It boosts blood flow and supports healing, but muscles can feel tender, especially if you’ve been holding tension for a long time.
🟠 2. Release of Lactic Acid & Toxins
Massage helps flush out metabolic waste like lactic acid. While your body clears it through your lymphatic system, you might temporarily feel sluggish or sore.
🟠 3. Activation of Dormant Muscles
Muscles that haven’t been used or stretched in a while can feel “woken up.” This is common in areas affected by poor posture or chronic tension.
🟠 4. Dehydration
If you’re not well-hydrated before or after a massage, your body may struggle to flush out released toxins efficiently, making soreness more noticeable.
⏳ How Long Does Post-Massage Soreness Last?
Most people feel mild tenderness for 24 - 48 hours. It should feel like a “good ache” a sign your muscles are adjusting and healing.
If soreness lasts longer than 72 hours or becomes sharp or uncomfortable, let me know so we can review and tailor your next session.
🛁 Tips to Ease Soreness After a Massage
💧 Stay Hydrated
Water helps flush toxins and reduce inflammation. Aim for 6 - 8 glasses a day, especially after deeper work.
♨️ Apply Gentle Heat
A warm bath, hot water bottle or wheat bag helps relax muscles and relieve tenderness.
🚶♀️ Keep Moving (Gently)
Light movement, like stretching or a walk, boosts circulation and prevents stiffness - especially after deep tissue or remedial massage.
😴 Rest When Needed
Feeling tired? That’s your body asking for rest. Honour it. You’ve just supported healing - don’t rush it.
❓ Should I Be Concerned?
Not at all. Mild soreness is a completely normal response - especially if it’s your first treatment or we’ve worked on deeper tension.
Massage is personal and your comfort always comes first. I tailor every session to how your body feels and your feedback helps me adjust it perfectly.
If you prefer a gentler approach next time, just say. It’s your treatment, your way.
🤝 Have Questions or Concerns?
If you’re feeling a bit tender after your massage, don’t worry - it’s expected and I’m always here to guide you with personalised aftercare advice.
Whether it’s Swedish, aromatherapy, or deep tissue, your body’s healing journey is unique and I’m here to walk it with you.
💆♂️ Book Your Next Massage in Doncaster
Massage is more than just “a treat” it’s support for your body through stress, recovery and everyday life.
If you're ready to feel cared for, rebalanced, and pain-free…
👉 Book your massage online
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