Your Questions, Answered
FAQs
DO YOU HELP TREAT CHRONIC PAIN?
Yes. Research studies have shown that massage clearly decreases pain. People that have chronic pain may have that pain for all types of reasons. Often it is pain from muscles and joints, which responds well to massage.
WHAT WILL MY FIRST SESSION BE LIKE?
Arrival - On the day of your first appointment, please arrive 10-15 minutes early to fill out a medical history form. When your therapist returns, they will go over your medical history with you. Please express any medical or physical concerns you have before, during, or after the treatment.
Undressing to your comfort level - You will get unclothed to your comfort level. For some clients the comfort level may mean leaving the undergarments on. That is fine. Most people who receive massage regularly find it safe to undress completely, allowing the therapist to access the lower back and hip area. You will then get under a sheet and blanket. You will be fully covered except for the area of the body that is being massaged. The genitals and breasts are never exposed or massaged. Getting fully unclothed is beneficial if you need work on your lower back area. The most important thing is that you feel comfortable, so do what feels right to you.
Conversation during massage - Some people like complete silence so they can relax, while others like the social interaction. I will honor your preference. To talk or not to talk is up to you. Please always tell me if something feels uncomfortable. It won’t hurt my feelings. The most important thing is that you enjoy your massage.
Massage pressure - If your goal is to relieve muscle tension and pain, you may feel a “good” type of pain during the massage. The “good” type of pain should never cross the line where it doesn’t feel good. Please tell me if this happens so that I can lighten my technique. If you experience delayed soreness the day after the massage, take a hot bath with Epsom Salts and drink plenty of water. Generally people feel deeply relaxed and refreshed after a massage. Massage may reduce aches and pains, increase joint mobility, and improve mood.
When you should not receive a massage:
Uncontrolled diabetes or blood pressure.
Recent accidents, surgery or fractures.
A current infection.
A fever.
A cold in the early stages.
Any contagious disease(s).
Also, clients taking blood thinners should ask their physicians if it is safe to get a massage.
OTHER QUESTIONS:
Should I assist? – You may be unsure about assisting the therapist during your massage when a part of your body is lifted or moved. Unless your therapist specifically requests focused movement, clients should resist any attempts to assist during the massage. Your only job is to be a limp noodle in order to support the session’s therapeutic benefits. Relax and enjoy!
Should I tip? – Figuring out when and how much to tip can be tricky. Although tipping is never required, a 15 to 20 percent tip is customary if you were pleased with the services.
Being self-conscious – This issue shouldn't keep you from seeking health care, whether it's visiting your doctor or seeing a massage therapist. A professional massage therapist will be non-judgmental and focused on your muscles (and other soft tissue).
Still, some common concerns clients have are:
Having back acne
Believing they are overweight
Thinking they have ugly feet
Being self-conscious about scars
You can request that the massage therapist avoid certain areas. Or, you can ask for a style of massage that can be done through clothing.