FAQ
Click below for answers to frequently asked questions about my services.
What types of massage do you offer?
Deep Tissue Massage
Orthopedic Massage/Sports Massage
Myofascial Release
Trigger Point Therapy
Assisted Stretching
Myofascial Decompression Therapy (Cup Therapy)
Swedish Massage
How long are your massage sessions?
I offer 30, 45, 60, 75, and 90 minute sessions. Each is customized considering client concerns and time allotment. Longer sessions allow for extended focus in multiple areas. For example, 90 minutes allows for a full-body session with extended focus in up to 3 areas. 30 minutes allows for focus on up to 3 areas but does not integrate with the entire body.
What should I expect during my first massage?
Please come prepared to share injury/medical history and relevant observations to assist in a thorough, 2 minute intake at the start of the session. Please come dressed in comfortable clothing in case movement is beneficial in assessment or treatment. For deep tissue and other focus techniques, light communication/participation may be recommended. Key observations and recommendations are provided at session conclusion and by email, by request.
What is the difference between Swedish and deep tissue massage?
Swedish massage energizes the body by stimulating circulation with five strokes— effleurage (stroking), petrissage (kneading), vibration (rocking/shaking), tapotement (tapping), and friction—directed toward the heart. The client is draped, and oil is used to minimize skin friction. Benefits include relaxation, improved circulation, faster healing, reduced swelling, and breaking down scar tissue adhesions. (Massagetherapy.com)
Deep-tissue massage affects the sub-layer of musculature and fascia. These techniques require advanced training and a thorough understanding of anatomy and physiology. The muscles must be relaxed in order to effectively perform deep-tissue massage, otherwise tight surface muscles prevent the practitioner from reaching deeper musculature. It helps with chronic muscular pain and injury rehabilitation, and reduces inflammation-related pain caused by arthritis and tendinitis. It is generally integrated with other massage techniques. (Massagetherapy.com)
How often should I get a massage?
Activity level, lifestyle, goals, and injury type affect massage needs and frequency. Excessive or reduced activity can both cause fatigue and pain symptoms. Massage needs fluctuate with imposed physical demands, injury, and treatment plan (if applicable).
Do I need to undress completely for a massage?
Dress recommendations depend on the massage type and technique. Some sports and orthopedic massage active techniques are best applied while partially clothed while deep tissue and full-body techniques are best applied with little to no clothing. Most techniques can be modified, however, to accommodate all comfort levels.
Can massage help with specific pain or injuries?
Massage can be recommended as part of your treatment plan by a doctor or, when appropriate, customized by experienced therapists to address a range of medical injuries.
How much pressure is recommended during the massage?
Treatment, pressure, and technique recommendations are discussed at the start of the session. Pressure is adjusted throughout the session depending on body region, technique, and client feedback.
Can I request specific areas to be focused on?
A session plan is agreed upon at the start of the session. Focus areas are identified at this time.
Is massage safe during pregnancy?
Pregnancy comes with changes in physiology, as well as additional lifestyle changes and stresses. Prenatal massage is safe and is a very popular massage modality
Do you offer prenatal or postpartum massage?
Prenatal is not one of my specialities. Please contact me for a referral.
What are the benefits of regular massage therapy?
Research supports a range of benefits for various populations. For general healthy individuals, it supports a decrease in stress hormones and boosts the immune system and mental health. For active populations, it improves performance and decreases injury. In the event of acute or chronic injury, it is a noninvasive intervention which can provide lasting results in musculoskeletal health and function.
Can I combine different massage modalities in one session?
A combination of techniques are used in a single session and are sequenced to first assess a body region, then treat a particular area, and then reintegrate with the body. Techniques form an arc within a session to gradually increase intensity/specificity and then gradually become more broad and soothing. Particular technique preferences and recommendations are discussed during intake.
Do you accept insurance for massage therapy?
I do not accept or bill insurance, however, I can provide documentation for claims upon request.
How should I prepare for a massage session?
No special preparation is needed, however, the more hydrated the better. Many treatment techniques affect the nervous system and soft tissue through the circulatory system. Adequate hydration affects blood/plasma volume and many biological processes. Have moderate and regular water intake in the hours leading up to your session.
Will I be sore after a deep tissue or sports massage?
The physiology behind muscle soreness is not totally understood. There are theories regarding muscle soreness post activity, including delayed-onset-muscle-soreness (DOMS) which is common after fitness training. Recent research has discovered that fascia contains significantly more nerve endings than muscle tissue making it more of a factor in biofeedback and pain than previously believed. Deep tissue and myofascial techniques are likely to cause soft tissue stimulation proportional to their perceived intensity, including soreness post massage.
How long does it take to see benefits from massage therapy?
Massage benefits are conditional on the treatment approach and treatment plan. Your preferences and treatment goals will direct the decision making process. In short, the more adaptable the client in their preferences, session participation, and recommended lifestyle modifications, the greater the outcome. Progress is dependent on these client resources and the injury being addressed.
What’s the best type of massage for stress relief?
Research supports a decrease in stress hormones, as well as a boost in the immune system and mental health with massage. The type of massage, pressure, and techniques that feel most therapeutic depend on individual preferences and physical condition. Swedish and deep tissue massage are often customized to provide both general stress and musculoskeletal relief.
Are there any health conditions that would prevent me from getting a massage?
Personal health history is considered during intake. Previous injury as well as various health conditions/medications are considered when planning the session. To ensure safety, the physiology of certain conditions/medications is considered when selecting techniques to prevent any adverse reactions. Please be thorough in disclosing your health history at the start of your appointment.