Deep tissue massage

[Pinkpepper]

I had a deep tissue massage to help with my tense muscles in my neck and shoulders on Wednesday and today feel like I’ve been kicked by a horse. Is this to be expected two days later please?

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Yes - the tense muscles often are due to myofascial pain syndrome and that is due to an accumulation of the same inflammatory substances as PMR but in the muscle fascia (the transparent skin you will know from joints of meat and poultry) and as knots of hardened muscle fibres in the body of the muscle rather than systemically as in PMR (through the blood stream). Therapeutic or deep tissue massage releases those inflammatory substances and causes a flare of the PMR and muscle pain. Drink plenty of water and try to walk gently in the fresh air for a while. In PMR the inflammatory substances are renewed every morning but in your case it is just the release to freedom that is the problem, Once they are washed out, it will improve.

[Pinkpepper in reply to PMRpro]

Thank you so much x

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Pinkpepper]

I know it will probably happen and expect it - love my deep massage!!! A lot of people try it and get scared when this reaction happens. My physio sessions often work on trigger points (often the knots you can feel in the muscles) and I can feel as if I have massive bruises, although there is rarely anything to see. But the effect is worth it for me!

[Pinkpepper in reply to PMRpro]

I felt wonderful straight after and will have another in a few weeks. He also offers cupping which apparently helps blood flow and acupuncture. Havd you tried either?

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Pinkpepper]

No - although jinasc has used it for her similar back problems and says it was good. I saw a research paper about cupping (at a science meeting in S Korea about oxygen transport to tissue) that claimed it did improve oxygen supply further than just under the cup. So perhaps worth a try...

[YuliK in reply to PMRpro]

nccih.nih.gov/health/cupping

This article is worthwhile checking out.

[Pinkpepper in reply to PMRpro]

Thanks x

[tangocharlie in reply to PMRpro]

I've just come back from a pummeling by an osteopath and he told me to drink lots of water and chill the rest of the day - now I know why!

[Pinkpepper in reply to tangocharlie]

Everyone's mentioned drinking water, thanks xx

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to tangocharlie]

The good ones do!

[Pinkpepper in reply to PMRpro]

True x

[SheffieldJane]

I think you are right, the massage was simply too much for your blood starved muscles with PMR. Hopefully you will recover in a few days of complete rest and not have to resort to upping your Pred dose. Painkillers and heat ought to help.

[Pinkpepper in reply to SheffieldJane]

Thank you xxx

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Very likely.....you need a therapist who is well aware of PMR and the affect is has on muscles.

Hopefully it will resolve in another couple of days.

[Pinkpepper in reply to DorsetLady]

Thank you very much x

[SnazzyD]

Would have done the same to me even without active PMR since GCA/Pred. I miss a good pummelling but have to ‘make do’ with Bowen therapy, but that’s not exactly a hardship.

[Pinkpepper in reply to SnazzyD]

Usdd to have aromatherapy massages, lovely, but trying to get blood flowing to my achy muscles 😫😫😫

[Constance13 in reply to Pinkpepper]

I still have it (when the practice is allowed to open). Maybe does nothing for the blood flow but very relaxing. Good enough for me!👵🏻

[YuliK in reply to Constance13]

Really.

[Constance13 in reply to YuliK]

Why not?

[YuliK in reply to Constance13]

Good for you Constance. My body is so sensitive, I can’t see myself getting massages ...well ....maybe if he was a Chippendale ...wink wink.

[Constance13 in reply to YuliK]

Don't need a Chippendale at my age! Not sure what I would do with him!🤪

My massages aren't deep just 'stroking'. Ummm - perhaps a Chippendale would do?????😎💥💥👵🏻

[YuliK in reply to Constance13]

Go for it Constance. 🤣

[Pinkpepper in reply to Constance13]

🤣🤣🤣

[Pinkpepper in reply to YuliK]

Only the one, dont be greedy 🤣🤣

[Pinkpepper in reply to Constance13]

Thanks I will x

[123-go]

Hot stone massage was great for me (not suitable if you have, for example, high blood pressure, rheumatoid arthritis, are taking blood thinners). My therapist was very gentle and used stroking/sweeping movements rather than the kneading you have from DT massage. The essential oils are wonderful. As DL said, the therapist should be well aware of your condition.

[Pinkpepper in reply to 123-go]

Yes I did explain about my PMR but I have raised blood pressure so don't suppose I could have it?

[123-go]

Maybe not but check to be sure. It could be the type of massage oil that needs to be considered but you need expert advice from a knowledgable therapist. I wish you well.

[Pinkpepper in reply to 123-go]

Thank you so much for your advice x