Clinical Massage Therapy
Frequently Asked Questions
Where will my treatment take place?
Your massage or body treatment will take place in a warm, comfortable, quiet room. Soft music may be played to help you relax. You will lie on a table especially designed for your comfort.
Must I be completely undressed?
Most massage and bodywork techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed; however, it is entirely up to you what you want to wear. You should undress to your level of comfort. You will be properly draped during the entire session.
Will the therapist be present when I disrobe?
The therapist will leave the room while you undress, relax onto the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet or towel depending on the treatment.
Will I be covered during the treatment?
You will be properly draped at all times to keep you warm and comfortable. Only the area being worked on will be exposed.
What parts of my body will be massaged?
A typical full-body treatment will include work on your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck, and shoulders.
What will a massage treatment feel like?
In a Therapeutic Massage, your treatment may start with broad, flowing strokes that will help calm your nervous system and relax exterior muscle tension. As your body becomes relaxed, pressure will gradually be increased to work on specific areas and relieve muscular tension in areas that have chronic pain. Pressure is always guided by the client. Don't be afraid to tell the therapist if you would like more or less pressure in a specific area. Often, a light oil or lotion is used to allow your muscles to be massaged without causing excessive friction to the skin. The oil also helps hydrate your skin. You should communicate immediately if you feel any discomfort so that another approach may be taken. Massage and bodywork are most effective when your body is not resisting.
What are the different types of massage and body treatments?
There are numerous types of massage; various techniques utilize different strokes, including basic guilding strokes, rocking movement, posture and movement re-education, application of pressure to specific points, and more. We can discuss which methods may be most appropriate for you. Click here for a complete list of the many massage and body treatments that are available.
What should I do during the massage or body treatment?
Prior to the massage, feel free to ask the therapist any questions about the technique or the upcoming treatment. During the massage, make yourself comfortable. The therapist will either gently move you or tell you what is needed throughout the treatment (such as lifting your arm). Many people just close their eyes and completely relax, communicating if/when they need more or less pressure, another blanket, or anything else relevant to the treatment. If you have any questions regarding the treatment or about the particular technique you are receiving, feel free to ask.
How will I feel after the massage or body 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 and body treatments, it is recommended you drink plenty of water following your treatment.
What are the benefits of massage therapy?
Massage and bodywork can help release chronic muscular tension and pain, improve circulation, increase joint flexibility, reduce mental and physical fatigue and stress, promote faster healing of injured muscular tissue, improve posture, and reduce blood pressure. Massage and bodywork is also known to promote better sleep, improve concentration, reduce anxiety and create an overall sense of well-being. Click Here for more information on the benefits of massage.
Are there any medications or medical conditions that would make massage or bodywork inadvisable?
Yes. That is why it is imperative that, before your treatment, you fill out a Confidential Health History Form and let the therapist know of any additional issues you may be dealing with at that time. It is very important that you inform the therapist of any health problems or medications you are taking. If you are under a doctor's care, depending on the condition, an approval from your doctor may be required. On subsequential appointments, it is the patient's responsiblity to inform the therapist of any changes in your health, status, or medications.