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 may 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. However, you may choose to wear underwear. 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 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. Massage therapists sometimes recommend a hot Epsom salt bath that encourages the release of toxins that may have been stirred up from the massage treatment.

Q.  Can massage help me with pain due to injuries or from my medical condition?

A.  Yes.  Massage can help to lessen or eliminate pain stemming from a wide range of medical conditions that include low back pain, whiplash, fibromyalgia, lupus, myofascial pain syndrome, sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome, tmj pain, migraines, and others.  There are some conditions for which massage is contraindicated, make sure to tell your Massage Therapist what condition you're seeking relief for, and check with your doctor.

Q.  What does massage do - other than feel good?

A.  Scientific study has now proven many of the healing aspects of massage, that some cultures have known for thousand of years.
Just a few of the benefits of Massage are listed here;
*Helps rid the body of toxins
*Stretches superficial tissue
*Assists lymphatic and venous flow
*Helps to break up and loosen subcutaneous scar tissue
*Increases nutrition to the cells and skin
*Increases the red and white blood cell count
*Can help reduce certain types of edema
*Increases respiration to the skin
*Stimulates the sensory receptors (nerves) of the skin and deeper tissue
*Relieves joint ache and pain
*Promotes good posture and self esteem
*Improves tone and texture of the skin
*Assists digestion
*Causes release of natural endorphins and promotes relaxation

Q.  What about tips?  Are tips required?

A.  Tips are not required, nor are they expected.  However, if you wish to tip, it will be gladly accepted and appreciated.