Shoulder and Arm Swelling After Self-Massage: What Could It Be?

Question
Greetings. I had been self-massaging for about 2 weeks in preparation for a deep tissue massage. Every chance I got I just rubbed those places that had been so tensed up for years in my neck, shoulders and back. I guess I got carried away and was used to much pressure around the neck area, in particular surrounding the  vertebrae. Late last week I noticed a bruise on the back of my neck and on one small place on my back. A man at the health food store recommended arnica gel and I have see great relief. But now that my throat and neck feel normal again, I noticed swelling in my shoulder, arms and back. I am not in pain and never was , but I'm concerned that I may have damaged something. I feel like those areas I've described are softer and "mushier" now. What have I done!! Is this something that will pas or what? Also, do you know when I would be able to schedule a professional massage? Thanks so much for your time and insight.

Answer
Dear Nicky,

Swelling usually indicates inflammation. As you said, you may have massaged to deep and caused an injury to the tissue. You can ice those areas that you notice have swelling for about 15-20 minutes. If the swelling does not go down within 24- 72 hours, then you may want to see a doctor to make sure it's not too serious. Not experiencing pain is probably a good thing, and having those areas become softer and mushier probably means that you released a lot of restrictions that were there before, also good!. I would wait at least until the swelling goes down to schedule a massage. And next time you self massage , go gently, and slowly. It takes time to warm up muscle tissue, and it's important that you are careful where and how you self massage to prevent future injury.



All the best,

Rachel