Why am I sore after the massage or workout and what's the difference?

Have you ever wondered why you feel sore after a massage or physio session? Shouldn't it feel nice? That's what a massage is for, right? Well, it all depends on what outcome you are expecting. If you want to relax and you are getting a relaxation massage, you'll probably be fine. However, if you're dealing with shoulder immobility or tight hips, a relaxing massage might not be what you need. In this case, the therapist must address the overactive or weak tissues and attempt to stimulate them using various techniques, which may not be pleasant.

Let me explain it to you.....

What is happening during a Sports massage or Dry needling?

1. Microtrauma and Healing:

After a massage or dry needling session, you might feel sore because these treatments cause small amounts of microtrauma to your muscle fibers. While this might sound alarming, it's actually a positive response. This microtrauma triggers the body’s natural healing process, leading to the repair and strengthening of the affected tissues. This repair process not only alleviates existing pain but also helps build more resilient muscles and connective tissues over time.

2. Release of Muscle Tension and "Toxins":

During a massage or dry needling, areas of tightness and adhesions—commonly known as "knots" or "trigger point"—are released. This release can cause soreness as your muscles adjust to the new, more relaxed state. Additionally, these treatments can help flush out metabolic waste products (often referred to as “toxins”) that have accumulated in your muscles. Although you might feel sore initially, the elimination of these byproducts can lead to improved muscle function and overall well-being.

3. Increased Blood Flow and Inflammation:

Both massage and dry needling enhance blood circulation in the treated areas. This increase in blood flow brings essential nutrients and oxygen to the tissues, promoting faster healing. However, this also leads to a temporary increase in inflammation, which can cause soreness. This inflammation is a natural and necessary part of the healing process, helping to repair damaged tissues and improve their overall health.

The Benefits of Post-Treatment Soreness

• Tissue Repair and Strengthening: 

  The soreness you feel after a massage or dry needling is a sign that your body is repairing itself. This process not only addresses current pain or tightness but also strengthens the tissue, making it more resistant to future injuries.

• Improved Flexibility and Range of Motion: 

  By breaking up adhesions and reducing tension, these treatments can significantly enhance your flexibility and range of motion. While the soreness may be uncomfortable, it’s a sign that your muscles and connective tissues are becoming more pliable and functional.

• Long-Term Pain Relief: 

  Though post-treatment soreness is temporary, the long-term benefits include reduced chronic pain and discomfort. As your body heals and adapts, you’ll likely experience less pain and greater ease of movement.

Treatment Induced Soreness VS Exercise-Induced Soreness

1. Source of Soreness:

• Treatment-Induced Soreness: Results from direct manipulation of muscles and connective tissues during massage or dry needling, leading to microtrauma and the release of tension.

• Exercise-Induced Soreness: Comes from the stress placed on muscles during physical activity, particularly during eccentric contractions (like lowering a weight), which cause small tears in the muscle fibers.

2. Duration and Intensity:

• Treatment-Induced Soreness: Typically mild and lasts 24-48 hours as your body processes the benefits of the treatment.

• Exercise-Induced Soreness: Often more intense and can last up to 72 hours or more, depending on the intensity of the workout and your level of conditioning.

3. Benefits:

• Treatment-Induced Soreness: Indicates that your muscles are healing, becoming more flexible, and preparing for better function. It’s a sign that the treatment is working to alleviate pain and improve tissue health.

• Exercise-Induced Soreness: Signals muscle adaptation, where your muscles are repairing and growing stronger in response to the physical demands placed on them.

Conclusion

Although post massage or Dry needling treatment soreness might be uncomfortable, it’s a positive indication that your body is healing, adapting, and improving. Whether from a therapeutic intervention like massage or dry needling or from a challenging workout, this soreness leads to stronger, more resilient muscles and tissues. Understanding the benefits of this soreness can help you appreciate the process, knowing that your body is working towards better health and performance.

Visit us at Bondi Sports Massage, 122 Bronte Rd, Bondi Junction, NSW, 2026

www.bondisportsmassage.com.au/onlinebooking

Services offered:

Remedial Massage

Sports Massage

Dry Needling

Cupping

Assisted Stretching

Rehabilitation

Tags: Sports Massage Bondi, Remedial Massage Bondi, massage Bondi, Bondi massage, Massage near me, sports massage therapist, Sports therapy, Bondi junction massage, Bondi Junction remedial massage, Bondi Junction Sports Massage, Best massage Bondi, Massage Bondi Beach, Best massage bondi,