Yes, but they are usually mild and short. The most common are sore muscles, tiredness and thirst, and most fade within a day or two. Serious problems are rare.
The short answer
Common: sore muscles, tiredness, thirst, now and then a mild headache.
How long: usually a day or two.
After cupping: round marks that fade over a few days.
Call a doctor: sharp or worsening pain, swelling in one calf, or numbness that stays.
What the research says
Mayo Clinic notes that some soreness can happen the next day, depending on the type of massage. In one study of 100 people after a massage, about one in ten reported minor discomfort. Most of it started within 12 hours and was gone within 36 hours.
The National Institutes of Health describes the risk of harm from massage as low, with rare reports of serious side effects. Soreness is also not a sign of toxins leaving the body. The American Massage Therapy Association says there is no scientific evidence for that idea.
What you might feel, and for how long
Sore muscles: some tenderness the next day can be normal after deep work, a lot like the day after a new workout. It usually fades within a day or two.
Tiredness: feeling sleepy or slow for a few hours afterward is common. Plan an easy evening if you can.
Thirst: you have likely gone a while without a drink. Have the water or tea offered after your session.
A mild headache: this can follow firm work on the neck and shoulders, or simply not drinking enough. It usually passes the same day.
Feeling lightheaded: some people feel a little dizzy when they first sit up. Sit up slowly and take a moment before you stand.
Cupping marks: cupping lifts the tissue with gentle suction and can leave round marks. They fade over a few days.
Why they happen
None of this means something went wrong. Firm pressure on muscles that have been tight for a long time can leave them tender, the same way a new exercise does. Tiredness is part of winding down. As your body settles during the session, it may stay in that slower mode for a few hours.
From Dr. Nick
Soreness is not proof that a massage worked. If you are still sore two days later, tell us next time. We would rather adjust the pressure than have you brace through it.
What to do afterward
Drink water through the rest of the day.
Eat something light, which may help if you feel foggy or headachy.
Take a warm shower or an easy walk, which may help stiff muscles loosen.
Leave hard training for the next day, especially after deep work.
Go to bed a little early if you feel tired.
Fewer after-effects next time
Soreness is more likely after deep pressure, so the easiest thing to adjust is the pressure itself. You can change it at any time and never have to explain why, so speak up if you notice yourself tensing or holding your breath.
If you are new to deep tissue, ask for medium pressure on your first body massage. If your back or shoulders will be on show at an event, skip cupping that week.
When to call a doctor
Normal after-effects fade a little more each day. Call your doctor if you notice:
Pain that is sharp, severe or still getting worse after two days
Bruising you did not expect, apart from cupping marks
Swelling, warmth or redness in one area, such as one calf
Numbness or tingling that does not go away
A headache that is severe or does not ease with water and rest
Dizziness that lasts more than a few minutes
If you bruise easily, take blood thinners or have a medical condition, and you plan on deep work or cupping, check with your doctor first.
Common questions
Is it normal to feel sore after a massage?
Yes, especially after deep work. Some tenderness the next day can be normal, and it usually fades within a day or two.
Why do I feel so tired after a massage?
Many guests find the calm of the session lingers for a few hours. If you can, book on a day when you can take it easy.
Does massage release toxins?
No. There is no scientific evidence that massage releases toxins. Most people are simply thirsty after lying still for a while.
How long do cupping marks last?
They fade over a few days. Cupping is an enhancement, so you can skip it when the timing is wrong.
Can I exercise after a massage?
An easy walk is fine. Leave hard training for the next day, especially after deep tissue.
Book your massage
Serenity Zen has studios in West Covina and Diamond Bar. Open daily, 10 AM to 9 PM.
Book West Covina Book Diamond Bar
Sources: Mayo Clinic, Massage therapy. Cambron and others, Side effects of massage therapy, 2007. NCCIH, Massage therapy: what you need to know. American Massage Therapy Association, Myths in massage research.