For the rest of today
- Drink normally — normal hydration is enough; there is no need to force extra water
- Move gently, then build back up — light movement and easy stretching are good; resume harder exercise gradually, as your body tolerates it
- Warmth helps — a warm shower or a heat pack on a treated area can feel wonderful; avoid intense heat right on freshly worked deep tissue if it feels tender; use a cloth barrier between a heat pack and your skin, and if an area has reduced sensation, swelling or bruising, ask me before applying heat
- Eat normally and rest — many people feel relaxed to the point of sleepiness; that is your nervous system downshifting
What is normal afterwards
- Mild soreness for 24–48 hours — similar to how you might feel after a workout, especially after deeper Tuina work; it should ease steadily
- If bruising appears — tell me, so we can note it and adjust pressure next time; bruising is feedback, not a goal of deep work
- Feeling no soreness at all — also completely normal; soreness is not a measure of whether the treatment worked
- Feeling looser but tired — range of motion often improves while energy dips for a few hours
When to get in touch
Contact me promptly — or seek medical care — if you notice significant pain, swelling, or new numbness or weakness. Also get in touch if soreness keeps getting worse after two days rather than better, or if anything simply feels off. Feedback also helps me adjust pressure and technique at your next visit — always tell me what worked and what did not.
This page is general aftercare information, not medical advice. Persistent or severe pain should be assessed in person. Learn more about RMT massage therapy or see prices. Related reading: acupuncture aftercare.
