Are massages appropriate for all?
Not all types of massage are appropriate for all conditions. Many health conditions may require gentler forms of massage therapy, or more specialized techniques and treatment plans. In many cases, your massage therapist can come up with a treatment plan that will work for you and your health situation.
Even some prescribed or over-the-counter medications can contraindicate receiving certain types of massage therapy. Be sure to list any medications you are taking and inform your therapist of any changes since your last visit. In some situations, your massage therapist may request your physician's consent and recommendations before performing a massage. It is important for you to fully complete your Health History form and keep your massage therapist up to date on your condition.
Be sure to let your massage therapist know if you have:
Any acute injury from a recent accident such as whiplash, sprains, or other soft tissue damage.
Swelling or edema.
Acute conditions such as flared-up psoriasis, eczema, or rheumatoid arthritis.
Uncontrolled high blood pressure, diabetes, prominent varicose veins, osteoporosis, or any other serious medical conditions.
Glaucoma
Do I need to shower before my massage?
You don't need to necessarily shower right before your massage, but we ask that you come to your appointments clean and free of fragranced personal care products.
What'll happen at my first massage?
We'll ask you to fill out a health history form to let us know about any current concerns or goals you want us to address. We'll then give you privacy to make yourself comfortable – whether you decide to remove your clothing or not. If you have questions, please don't hesitate to ask them.
Is it necessary to remove my clothing?
No, it is not required. Our therapists will only ask you to remove clothing to the extent that you feel comfortable. If you prefer to remain in your undergarments, that is perfectly acceptable. The therapist will step out of the room while you undress and will provide towels and blankets for your comfort during the massage. Additionally, some massage techniques can be performed while you remain fully clothed, so please feel free to discuss your preferences with us prior to booking.
Is massage painful?
It's not unusual to feel some soreness after a massage. This is due to a release of lactic acid in the muscles, but it doesn't last long. You may also have some discomfort during your massage. This depends on the area we're working on, any pre-existing pain. You can always ask the therapist to use less pressure at any time if it's too uncomfortable.
Is it okay to ask for more or less pressure?
Yes! A good massage therapist will check in with you during your massage to make sure the pressure is okay. Be mindful that massage doesn't have to cause you pain to be effective. Some massage techniques are pretty gentle. But do speak up and ask your therapist if you'd like more or less pressure during your session. We won't be offended!
Should I see a Massage Therapist if I’m not in pain?
Massage therapy is a great natural solution when you want relief from pain, but it can also be used as a preventive treatment. Seeing your massage therapist regularly can help:
Lower cortisol and raise serotonin levels to calm and relax your body
Loosen tight muscles, which may increase blood flow, leading to lower blood pressure
Depending on what you are seeing your Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) for, they may use a different technique or massage modality. There are many examples of different massage therapies, including Swedish Massage, Neuromuscular Therapy, Connective Tissue Therapy, Deep Tissue Therapy, Joint Mobilization, or Stone Therapy.
Isn't massage just to help you relax?
Massage is excellent for relaxation but it also has many other benefits.
Massage helps with chronic muscle aches and pains, reduces stress, eases muscle tension, improves circulation, alleviates breathing problems, lowers blood pressure, reduces headaches, improves daily mobility and wellbeing, helps manage anxiety and depression, and promotes good, healthy sleep.
How Often Should I Get Massages?
The frequency of massages depends on many factors, including your physical condition, mental and emotional health, and your circumstances and budget. Once a week is ideal, but if that's not possible, committing to once a month can still bring positive changes to your physical health and stress levels.
I’m self-conscious, what should I do?
We all have parts of our body we're self-conscious about. Some areas you may be concerned about are:
Your weight
Unwanted body hair
Scars
Acne or other skin blemishes
Please don't let this stop you from getting help from a massage therapist. If you're sensitive about a particular area, ask them to avoid it. You can also opt for a fully clothed massage. Whatever your concerns, know that your therapists are friendly, supportive, and judgment-free.
Will I get a full 60 minutes of massage when I book a 1-hour appointment?
Yes, you receive the full amount of treatment time that you pay for. You are not charged for the intake and interview process or the time it takes you to dress.
Is it okay to talk to the massage therapist during my massage?
You will experience the greatest benefits from your session if you allow yourself to become quiet and relaxed, which helps your massage therapist focus on providing a great massage! Definitely communicate with your therapist if you feel any pain or discomfort, have any concerns during your massage, or if there is anything your massage therapist can do to make you more comfortable. Some types of massage that work on deep layers of muscle and tissue, such as deep tissue or sports massage, will require more feedback to ensure that the pressure is not uncomfortable.
I woke up with a cold today. Should I come in?
A massage will likely just make you feel worse if you are sick. If you are feeling unwell, it's better to reschedule your appointment. Not only could the massage make you feel worse, but there is also a risk of passing on your illness to your therapist and other clients. Please inform us as soon as possible if you need to reschedule due to illness, even if it's less than 24 hours before your appointment.
Is it okay to use tobacco, marijuana, or drink alcohol before my massage?
We ask that you please refrain from using tobacco, recreational drugs, or alcohol at least 4 hours before your appointment. Since massage releases toxins from the muscles into the bloodstream, the effects of alcohol can be heightened after a massage, and not in a pleasant way. Additionally, some prescription or over-the-counter medications can contraindicate massage.
What if I've experienced trauma (or abuse) that is still triggered by touch? Should I let my massage therapist know?
Yes, absolutely let your massage therapist know if you do not want to be touched in a specific area or in a certain way. You don't have to provide any details, and you have the right to ask for a break or end the massage at any time for any reason.
What if I need to use the bathroom?
We recommend using the bathroom before your session, but if you need to go during the massage, please feel free to speak up. Holding it in can interfere with your relaxation and experience. Let your therapist know, and they will inform you of where the bathroom is located.
What if I have big breasts that get in the way or make it uncomfortable to lay face down?
If you are uncomfortable laying face down, or in any other position, let your massage therapist know. Bolsters and towels can be used to make you as comfortable as possible.
Should I tell my therapist if I have a rash or a wart?
Yes, please let your massage therapist know right away.
What happens if I'm ticklish?
Let your massage therapist know before your session.
They can use firm, slow pressure or, if you're extremely sensitive, they can avoid your tickle spots.
What if I fall asleep, snore, or drool during my massage?
When it comes to frequently asked questions about massage, this is a common one. It's normal to fall asleep during a massage. You might be feeling stressed and sleep-deprived, so falling asleep is normal once you're in a relaxed state. There's zero judgment from us if you snore. We're pleased you're relaxed enough to fall asleep. Just take it as a sign you are enjoying the relaxation!
What should I do after I receive a massage?
It's a great idea to give yourself some additional time after your massage to continue relaxing and to allow your body to fully absorb the benefits of the massage. Drinking water post-massage helps the body flush out any accumulated materials that were released during the massage. This is especially pertinent in deep tissue and therapeutic massage as massage stimulates circulation in the body while expressing water, salt, and other minerals from the muscles.
What happens if I don't drink water after a massage?
Not drinking water won't make the massage ineffective, nor will it make the massage twice as effective if you do drink water.
Is it okay to exercise right after a massage?
Yes, it's okay to exercise after a massage, but most people prefer to stay relaxed.
What if I am late arriving to my appointment?
Please arrive on time for your appointment. Time for your appointment has been specially arranged for you. If you arrive late, your session may be shortened to accommodate others whose appointments follow yours. We will do our best to provide you with the services you have booked, but we cannot guarantee the full time if you arrive late. Full payment for your scheduled services will be expected.
Do you take insurance? What if I have a flexible spending account (FSA)?
Although we do not accept insurance, many plans do cover massage therapy with a doctor’s prescription and copies of receipts.
How can I be sure a massage clinic is reputable?
To ensure a massage clinic is reputable, do your research by checking out their website or calling them to find out what services they offer. A reputable clinic will offer therapeutic massage from licensed or certified therapists and will always have you fill out a health questionnaire on your first visit. We hope these frequently asked questions and responses about massage help you feel more confident about booking your massage. Get in touch to book your treatment and ask us all of your questions, even the embarrassing ones.