Office Hours

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What should I expect during my first massage therapy visit?

A. 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.

Q. Where will my massage session take place?

A. Your massage or bodywork session will take place in a warm, comfortable, quiet room. Soft music will be played to help you relax. You will lie on a table especially designed for your comfort.

Q. What do I wear during the massage?

A. Depending on the primary technique your therapist uses, you may or may not need to undress. For a full body massage, most people undress completely or to their comfort level. Your massage therapist will give you privacy to undress, and you will be covered with a sheet and blanket at all times except the area being worked on.

Q. What do I do during a massage therapy treatment?

A. 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.

Q. How will a massage feel?

A. It usually depends on the techniques used. In a general, 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.

Q. Is a massage always appropriate?

A. 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.

Q. How long will a massage treatment last?

A. The average full-body massage treatment lasts approximately one hour. A half-hour appointment only allows time for a partial massage session, such as neck and shoulders, back or legs and feet. Many people prefer a 60-minute session for optimal relaxation. Always allow relaxation time prior to and after the session.

Q. How will I feel after the massage therapy treatment?

A. 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. Sometimes a hot Epsom salt bath is recommended, it encourages the release of toxins that may have been stirred up from the massage treatment.

Q. Will I be sick or hurt after a massage therapy treatment?

A. Some people if they do not drink enough water, will have flu-like symptoms the next day due to detoxing of the body. This is rare but just make sure you are aware of the amount of water you drink. Some people feel sore after a treatment, they feel like the areas are bruised even when there is no sign of visible bruises. It should go away within a day or two.

Finally, always drink water, water, water after your massage session.