Soreness after a massage is common, and minor bruising can also occur. The extent of bruising depends on factors like massage type and individual body characteristics. While usually not concerning, understanding why bruising happens and when it signals a deeper issue helps manage expectations.
Understanding Post-Massage Bruising
A bruise forms when tiny blood vessels, capillaries, break beneath the skin’s surface. This allows blood to leak into surrounding tissues, causing discoloration.
Massage techniques apply pressure to muscles and connective tissues, which can rupture fragile capillaries. The blood then pools, creating a visible mark ranging from red to black.
Factors That Increase Bruising Risk
Some massage types carry a higher bruising risk due to intense pressure or specific techniques. Deep tissue massage, targeting deeper muscle layers, is more prone to bruising than lighter modalities like Swedish massage. Techniques such as cupping, which creates suction, and gua sha, involving skin scraping, intentionally bring blood to the surface and can cause significant discoloration.
Certain medications and supplements can increase bruising risk by affecting blood clotting. Blood thinners like warfarin, aspirin, and ibuprofen can make capillaries fragile or reduce clotting, leading to easier bruising. Corticosteroids also thin the skin, increasing susceptibility. Hydration levels influence tissue elasticity; well-hydrated tissues are less prone to capillary damage. A massage therapist’s technique and communication are important, as they can adjust pressure to minimize adverse effects.
When to Be Concerned About Bruising
While minor bruising after an intense massage is temporary, certain signs indicate a need for medical evaluation. If bruising has excessive pain, significant swelling, or appears unusually large and rapidly expanding, seek attention.
Bruises developing without clear reason or in unusual locations, like around the navel or behind the ear, suggest an underlying health issue.
Seek medical advice if bruising occurs frequently without direct pressure, or with symptoms like fever, unexplained fatigue, or skin changes. Bruises that do not improve within days or worsen over time require evaluation by a healthcare professional. These symptoms may suggest a blood clotting disorder, vitamin deficiency, or other medical condition.
Caring for Bruises and Prevention Tips
For minor bruises, apply a cold compress immediately after the session to reduce inflammation and bruising. The R.I.C.E. method—Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation—helps manage bruises.
- Rest the area.
- Apply ice for 15-20 minutes every few hours.
- Gently compress with a bandage if appropriate.
- Elevate the bruised limb above the heart to reduce swelling.
Over-the-counter pain relief can also manage discomfort.
To prevent future bruising, communicate openly with your massage therapist. Inform them about medications, especially blood thinners or steroids, and any conditions that make you prone to bruising. Discuss pressure preferences and ask them to adjust their technique if you feel discomfort. Staying well-hydrated before and after your massage supports tissue health. Choosing the right massage type for your body’s sensitivity minimizes bruising risk.