| What to Expect |
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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 where movement and flexibility of the joints and muscles are observed. This information is then discussed, so that a treatment plan can be developed. Your massage 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. What do I wear during the massage? During the interview, the therapist will have advised what part of your clothing needs to be removed. In all instances it is essential that you leave you underwear (briefs) on. The therapist will leave the room while you disrobe. There will be a towel or blanket for you to cover yourself with. When the therapist returns, they may adjust the towel for your comfort. Except for the area being worked on, the towel will drape you at all times. What do I do during the massage? 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 is your massage, and whatever feels natural to you is the best way to relax. Do not hesitate to ask questions at any time. How will the massage feel? In general, your session may start with broad, flowing strokes that will help calm your nervous system and relax outer muscle tension. As your body relaxes, pressure will slowly be increased to relax the deeper muscle layers. The massage is applied directly to the skin using a hypoallergenic oil to allow your muscles to be massaged without causing excessive friction to the skin. Do not hesitate to ask questions or mention if you feel any discomfort so that the massage therapist can use another approach or technique. How long will a massage treatment last? The average full-body massage treatment lasts approximately one hour. A half-hour appointment only allows time for a partial massage session, such as neck and shoulders, back or legs and feet. Many people prefer a 60 to 90 minute session so that they can relax completely. When the session is concluded the therapist will leave the room so you can dress. When they return, there will be a post massage interview, which may include another postural/functional assessment, to determine the effect of the massage and to discuss how you feel. The therapist will also suggest what sort of corrective exercises or stretches might be useful for your condition and may suggest a follow up treatment. How will I feel after the massage therapy treatment? 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. |