Frequently Asked Questions
What is Massage Therapy?
Massage Therapy is a profession in which the practitioner applies manual techniques and may apply adjunctive therapies with the intention of positively affecting the health and well-being of the client.
What is Therapeutic Massage?
Therapeutic Massage involves the manipulation of the soft tissue structures of the body to prevent and alleviate discomfort, muscle spasm, stress, and to promote health and wellness. Therapeutic Massage is not a replacement for medical attention. Consult your doctor if you're unsure about your state of health, before receiving bodywork. Therefore, Therapeutic Massage may not be recommended in some cases, such as inflammation of the veins (phlebitis), infectious diseases, certain forms of cancer, some skin conditions and some cardiac problems.
What can Therapeutic Massage do for me?
Today, research studies are ongoing proving the physical and mental therapeutic benefits, massage has on ones well-being. There are numerous benefits, the following is only a partial list; lowers cortisol levels, a hormone associated with stress – reduces stress, helps relieve muscle tension, reduces muscle spasms, increases endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, reduces blood pressure, improves circulation of blood and lymph fluids, strengthens the immune system, improves joint flexibility and range of motion, fosters peace of mind, reduces levels of anxiety, helps relieve mental stress and more.
How does Therapeutic Massage help stress?
Therapeutic Massage helps balance the effects of stress in our lives and avoid stress related disease and dysfunction as follows; Triggers the relaxation response, relaxes tense muscles, reduces anxiety level, normalizes blocked energy flow (circulation), improves immune system functioning, restores a calm mind and feeling of well-being.
Why is it necessary to fill out an intake questionnaire?
To insure the client has a safe and beneficial session, I, as the Massage Therapist need to know the reasons for you getting a massage, current physical condition, medical history, experiences with specific areas of pain, life style and stress level. It’s essential, for me to make sure there aren’t any conditions present that rule out having a massage, due to any health risks. Then, I need to know what your needs are regarding the massage, along with your expectations and goals for the session. Lastly, the information you provide helps me determine what techniques to use and how to structure the session.
What is a full-body session like?
Once you’ve completed the health intake process and the structure of your session is determined, then I will ask you to remove clothing to your comfort level. Disrobing takes place in private and a sheet is provided for draping. I will undrape only the part of your body being massaged, insuring that modesty is respected at all times. The massage session takes place on a comfortable padded massage table that can be heated if you would like. The table will have some extra attachments and cushions, such as; a face rest which allows you to lie in a face down position without turning your head and neck. If you don’t like using any attachments, just ask me to not use them. Expect a peaceful and comfortable environment throughout your massage session. Relaxing music is played in the background. If you have some favorite music to relax to, feel free to bring it with you.
What can I do to get the most from my massage?
Before your receive your massage, it’s a good idea not to eat any large or heavy meals, sugar, caffeine, or other stimulants. Be on time for your session and give me accurate health information. Good communication is very important, so before the session, let me know what your needs are.
During the massage session report any discomfort, whether it is from the massage or due to any problems or distractions related to the environment, such as; room temperature, music volume, lighting, etc. Feel free to give feedback to me regarding the massage, such as; draping, amount of pressure, speed of movement, etc. Also, tightening up/contracting your muscles during the massage is counterproductive. If you are able, relax those muscles and let me know this is happening. I may need to adjust the massage technique being used and help you relax the affected area. Also, to facilitate the relaxation, don’t hold your breath, this does not help with the muscle tension.
After the massage session, if you are dizzy or light headed do not get off the table until it has passed. Finally, be sure to drink plenty of water after the session, to facilitate cleansing of the bodily systems. Water will be offered to you after your massage.
Why use self-care techniques after a massage session?
In between your scheduled massage sessions, one can do relaxation techniques, gentle exercises to increase flexibility, release tension by contracting and releasing muscles, pressing “trigger points” or using ice and heat. These, plus other techniques, are just some ways to continue your health care maintenance outside the Massage Therapy office, to enhance your healing process and well-being.
How often should I receive massage?
Our bodies are amazing and compensate as much as possible to keep us moving forward. A lot of massage therapy is retraining muscle and the longer any kind of compensation has been going on, the longer the recovery will take. If you haven't been seeing a massage therapist for your condition it may take several visits to really address your issue. Like so many things, it depends, but here are some GENERAL guidelines.
- If you suffer from chronic illness or pain then you should receive massage as much as you need, and are able, to help maintain your quality of life. It may mean that you start seeing a therapist once or even twice a week for a month, maybe two. Then you may begin to stretch out the visits to suit your need.
- If you are seeking a therapist to overcome an injury, it will be a process of a month or two, depending on the injury.
- If you have been involved in an auto accident, or a severe accident of any kind, it may fall more into a chronic pain area, and the time frame can be 6 months, a year or longer depending on the injury.
- If you have an old injury that was not addressed, or needs to be re-addressed, than it could take seeing a therapist once a week for 3 months.
- If you are looking for a great way to treat yourself and reduce stress, once a month is fine. Many people are amazed at what one massage a month has done for them over time. Your goals and needs are very important in determining the length and effectiveness of treatment.
