What To Do Before & After Your Deep Tissue Massage

Relaxation. Relief. Recovery. On its own, a deep tissue massage offers a great deal of benefits. However, there are things you can do to maximize and extend the marked improvements of the massage, and enhance the entire experience.

With the time and financial commitment dedicated to getting a deep tissue massage, it’s important to prepare in advance and have a plan for what to do afterwards. Read on for some simple tips that can help you get the most out of your time on the massage table.

BEFORE

As your appointment draws near, you should try to remember to do these four things:

1. Stay hydrated. Hydration begins at least 24 hours prior to your time with a massage therapist. Deep tissue massage releases toxins from your muscles. Making sure that you are hydrated when you go into the massage makes it easier for your body to flush out these toxins as quickly and efficiently as possible. Also, well-hydrated muscles are more pliable, which may make it easier for the therapist to break up the toughest knots without causing too much discomfort.
2. Take a shower. While this may not always be possible, taking a shower can make the massage a more relaxing experience. The warm water will help loosen your muscles, which another way to reduce potential discomfort during a deep tissue massage.
3. Wear loose, comfortable clothes. For some, wearing comfortable clothing can automatically trigger muscle relaxation. Also, muscle soreness may vary after the massage is over, so loose clothes may be easier (and more comfortable!) for you to put on before you leave the clinic.
4. Know your goals for the massage. If you have a particular goal for the massage — such as tension relief in a particular area or healing support for a specific injury — remember to let your massage therapist know. That way, they can be sure to address your concerns.

AFTER

The post-care maximization points aren’t that different from the prepation. After all, a massage is not an isolated experience — it’s part of your body’s ongoing interaction with everything around it. Here are four things to do to extend the benefits:

• Continue to drink water.  Just like being hydrated before the appointment, drinking water afterward can help flush out the toxins that were released by the massage. Maintaining your hydration levels after the massage can also reduce post-massage side effects like soreness and nausea.
• Eat well. It’s best to avoid a heavy meal after a massage, but you also want to make sure that you are getting enough nutrients. Deep tissue massage stimulates blood flow to needy muscle tissue, so you want to be sure that the blood is carrying the nutrients you need.
• Get a good night’s rest. While you’re sleeping, your muscles are able to recover from the stress of the massage and efficiently utilize the nutrients that are being provided by the increased blood flow. Aim for a minimum of 6 hours.
• Schedule a follow-up appointment. A single deep tissue massage can definitely make a difference, but many patients notice more significant improvements with regular massage appointments.

Brielle Integrated Healthcare offers a variety of massage therapy options, including deep tissue massage. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!