Post-Treatment Care

Massage contra-actions

After a massage or sports therapy treatment, some clients may experience temporary and mild side effects known as contra-actions. These reactions are a normal part of the body’s response to treatment and usually settle within 24–48 hours.

Massage therapy stimulates circulation, lymphatic drainage, and the movement of fluids and waste products throughout the body. As your body adapts and begins its natural recovery and repair process, you may notice minor physical or emotional responses. These are generally short-lived and not a cause for concern.

Possible post-treatment reactions may include, but are not limited to:

  • Muscle soreness, tenderness, or stiffness (similar to post-exercise soreness)

  • Bruising or sensitivity in treated areas

  • Mild swelling, inflammation, or cramping

  • Redness or warmth of the skin (erythema)

  • Fatigue, drowsiness, or a feeling of needing extra rest

  • Headaches or light-headedness

  • Nausea or changes in appetite

  • Increased thirst or more frequent urination

  • Temporary changes in bowel movements

  • Heightened emotional responses, such as feeling tearful or uplifted

  • Cold or flu-like symptoms as the immune system responds

  • Skin reactions such as breakouts or increased sensitivity

  • A temporary increase in existing aches before improvement is felt

To support recovery, clients are encouraged to:

  • Drink plenty of water

  • Avoid strenuous activity immediately after treatment if possible

  • Allow time for rest and recovery

  • Apply gentle movement or stretching if advised by your therapist

If any reaction feels unusual, persists beyond a couple of days, worsens, or causes concern, please contact your therapist for advice.

By attending a treatment session, clients acknowledge that mild contra-actions are a normal and expected part of massage and sports therapy. Clients are responsible for monitoring their own post-treatment responses. Windsor Sports Therapy and Jamie cannot be held liable for these normal physiological reactions.

If you have any questions about post-treatment care or your response to treatment, we are always happy to help.