Soreness after exercise can be excruciating and incapacitating. Because it lengthens muscle contractions, eccentric exercise—like walking uphill or performing negatives—often results in sore muscles by inciting additional inflammation and damage to the muscles. The majority of research revealed that common treatments like heat, ice, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (like Advil) don’t hasten healing. Recent research has demonstrated that massage, especially when given right away after exercise, reduced inflammation caused by post-eccentric activity and aided in recuperation. Even in those who had not exercised, an Australian study found that massage reduced stiffness in the muscles. The ultrasonic shear elastography method was used to test the calf muscles’ stiffness. Although massage only temporarily eased stiffness, it was nevertheless useful.