Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of massage?
Some of the benefits of receiving a massage include: increasing blood circulation, decreases muscle tension and stress, it removes toxins and lactic acid build up, prevents and breaks up adhesions and knots, tones and hydrates the muscles, loosens up and lubricates joint capsules, reduces anxiety and depression eased due to the calming of the nervous system, and reduces insomnia.
What should I expect during my first massage therapy visit?
Your massage therapist may require you to fill out a health history form. Afterward 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. It is important to list all health concerns and medications so the therapist can adapt the session to your specific needs without doing any harm. It is also important to list any allergies so the therapist is aware if he/she needs to use a different oil or lotion during the session.
Do I have to be completely undressed?
No. There are many styles of massage that don’t require you to remove any clothing at all, including most Eastern Modalities, such as Zen Shiatsu, Thai, and most Myofascial Therapies. However, some styles of massage are most effective if your clothing is not preventing access to your skin. In this case, you should undress to your comfort level. For a full body massage, most get completely undressed. However, if you will be more comfortable during the session if you leave your underwear on, that's fine. The therapist will work around the clothes you left on as best as he/she can. The client’s comfort, safety, and security are most important in order to ensure that you are getting the optimal benefit from the session. Your massage therapist will give you privacy to undress and get comfortable on the table.
Do I have to cover myself with a sheet or towel?
This is known as draping and depends on the therapist and in some cases, the law. The majority of therapists will insist on draping. Once you are undressed and on the table under the drape, the therapist will only uncover the part of your body being worked on.
When should I not get a massage?
You should not book a massage if you have a fever, cold/flu, or contagious skin infection. There are many other conditions in which your therapist may need to adapt his/her techniques (i.e. arthritis or osteoporosis) or avoid an area completely (i.e. cuts or burns). With some conditions it is a good idea to get an approval from your physician before you receive a massage (cancer, certain heart conditions, pregnancy). This doesn't mean you can't get massage. But it's always better to err on the side of caution.