For your first appointment, you will fill out a basic questionnaire that helps the massage therapist know a little more about you such as your medical history, areas you’re feeling discomfort and the type of massage you would like. Then, you will be taken to the therapy room. You may have your massage with as many clothes on as you would like. Typically, most massages involve taking off some of your garments.
The therapist will discuss your problem areas and focus on those to help alleviate any soreness or pain. If there is too much pressure or not enough pressure, you are welcome to communicate that with your therapist. The therapist’s main goal is to help you remain comfortable and to benefit from the massage session as much as possible.
During your massage you might experience sighing, yawning, changes in breathing, stomach gurgling, movement of intestinal gas, emotional feelings, energy shifts, or falling asleep. These are all natural responses to relaxation.
Our massage sessions are therapeutic, relaxing and reduce muscular tension. It is not a substitute for medical examination, diagnosis or treatment. Any sexual remarks or advances will terminate the session and payment will still be required for the scheduled treatment.
Massage therapists may use fingertips, knuckles, hands, elbows, and forearms during the massage. You may be asked to breathe deeply as the massage therapist works on certain tense areas.
Massage is not recommended for certain people:
- Infectious skin disease, rash, or open wounds
- Immediately after surgery, chemotherapy or radiation, unless recommended by your doctor
- People with osteoporosis should consult their doctor before getting a massage
- Prone to blood clots. There is a risk of blood clots being dislodged. If you have heart disease, check with your doctor before having a massage
- Pregnant women should check with their doctor first if they are considering getting a massage. Massage in pregnant women should be done by massage therapists who are trained in pregnancy massage.
- Massage should not be done directly over bruises, inflamed skin, unhealed wounds, tumors, abdominal hernia, or areas of recent fractures.
Learn more on our massage therapy page.