FAQ
Do I need to schedule an appointment?
Yes, an appointment is required. What should I expect during my first massage therapy visit?
Your massage therapist will require you to fill out a health history form. Afterwards the therapist will begin by asking you general questions to establish what areas you would like worked on, if there are any conditions needing to be addressed and to determine if massage is appropriate for you. Your massage therapist may perform certain assessments and testing to evaluate your condition, and to see if you have any presenting complaints. Even though you use full draping I would be more comfortable leaving my underclothes on...is that ok?
Absolutely. Undress only to your level of comfort. If a massage therapist tells you that you MUST take off all clothing, find another massage therapist. Do I need to be undressed?
No. It's not absolutely necessary, but for the best results during a full-body massage it's recommended. You really don't need to worry, as a professional therapist I "drape" you with a sheet. Your modesty can and should be preserved. I use full draping and expose only the body part actually being massaged. Does a full body massage include 100% of the body?
No. How long will a massage treatment last?
The average therapeutic massage treatment lasts approximately one hour. Many people prefer a 60- to 90-minute session for optimal relaxation. What do I do during a massage therapy treatment?
Make yourself comfortable. If your therapist wants you to adjust your position, she or he will either move you or will ask you to move what is needed. Otherwise, change your position anytime to make yourself more comfortable. Many people close their eyes and relax completely during a session; others prefer to talk. It's up to you. It is your massage, and whatever feels natural to you is the best way to relax. Do not hesitate to ask questions at any time. How will a massage feel?
It usually depends on the techniques used. Many massage therapists use a form of Swedish massage, which is often a baseline for practitioners. In a general Swedish massage, your session may start with broad, flowing strokes (effleurage) that will help calm your nervous system and relax exterior muscle tension. As your body becomes relaxed, pressure will gradually be increased to relax specific areas and relieve areas of muscular tension. Often, a light oil or lotion is used to allow your muscles to be massaged without causing excessive friction to the skin. Do not hesitate to ask questions or mention if you feel any discomfort so that the massage therapist can use another approach or technique. How will I feel after the massage therapy treatment?
Most people feel very relaxed. Some experience freedom from long-term aches and pains developed from tension or repetitive activity. After an initial period of feeling slowed down, people often experience increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity which can last for days. Since toxins are released from your soft tissues during a massage, it is recommended you drink plenty of water following your massage. Massage therapists sometimes recommend an Epsom salt bath that encourages the release of toxins that may have been stirred up from the massage treatment. Will my massage be painful?
No. Relaxation massage shouldn't be painful and therapeutic massage including Deep Tissue techniques should seldom be more than slightly uncomfortable. You should feel free to let the therapist know if the pressure being used is causing you pain. You can get great results without pain. Is a massage always appropriate?
No, there are several medical conditions that would make massage inappropriate. That's why it is necessary that you fill out the health history forms and before you begin your session. The massage therapist will ask general health questions to rule out if you have any contraindications to massage. It is very important that you inform the practitioner of any health problems or medications you are taking. If you are under a doctor's care, it is strongly advised that you receive a written recommendation for massage prior to any session. Your massage therapist may require a recommendation or approval from your doctor.
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