Rubbing areas that hurt is a natural human response. Even certain mammals do this.
Massage is found to be helpful both physically and emotionally.
The rubbing not only soothes sore muscles but the mind as well. Massaging muscles and soft tissue stimulates nerves, increases blood flow and relieves stress in the muscles. This massage technique involves the use of long, smooth strokes, strokes that knead and compress, deep circular movements, vibration and tapping. This technique is very gentle and relaxes a person. This Japanese form of massaging is actually a form of acupressure, exerting massaging pressure on certain key points of the body.