Frequently Asked Questions about Massage

1. What is Massage Therapy?


2. What conditions are helped by a massage?


3. Are there any risks involved?


4. What should i expect during my massage?


5. Do I have to be completely undressed?


6. How much a massage will cost me?


7. How do I prepare for a massage and what do I do afterward?


8. How long is a massage?


9. Do I really need a massage?


10. How often should i receive a massage?


11. Is Massage Therapy a luxury?


12. What training is required of a professional Massage Therapist?

What is massage therapy?

Massage therapy is the scientific manipulation of the soft tissues of the body for the purpose of normalizing those tissues and consists of manual techniques that include applying moving or fixed pressure and movement of the body. Massage enthusiasts report astounding results, including dramatically improved health and well being.

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What conditions are helped by a massage?

Therapeutic massage can provide dramatic results for many conditions, including

• Arthritis
• Asthma
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Chronic and acute pain
• Circulatory conditions
• Gastrointestinal disorders
• Headache
• Insomnia
• Myofascial pain
• Sports injuries
• Stress and/or tension
• Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ)
• Fibromyalgia

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Are there any risks involved?

Generally speaking, massage is safe for most people,but should be avoided with certain conditions such as

• joint inflammation


• Heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure


• Blood-vessel ailment (such as phlebitis or history of blood clots)


• Certain skin conditions (such as psoriasis)


• Infectious disease


• Open wound


• Recent fracture or sprain


However masaage is strictly prohibited if you:

• Have a hematoma
  
• Have diverticulitis


• Have had embolisms


• Have ever had aneurysms


• Have phlebitis


• Have edema


• Have fever


• Are under cardiologist care


• Are being treated for cancer


• Are a hemophiliac


• Have arteriosclerosis


• Have multiple sclerosis


• Suffer from tuberculosis

If you have any diagnosed medical conditions, always check with your physician before undergoing massage therapy.

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What should i expect during my massage?

On your first visit,the massage therapist will ask you about your health in general ,specific injuries and whether you are under a doctor's care.Be sure to tell your massage therapist about any injuries or surgeries that you may have had or any medications that you are using. You should also discuss other treatments you may be receiving, including chiropractic, acupuncture, or physical therapy..This helps the therapist to determine your treatment needs and goals. Your massage therapist may perform certain assessments and testing to evaluate your condition, and to see if you have any presenting complaints. This is the time for you to ask any questions you have for the therapist.then he will give you some necessary instructions just prior to your massage session.

Your massage or bodywork session will take place in a warm, comfortable, quiet room. Soft music may be played to help you relax.Your massage will take place on a padded table especially designed for stability and comfort. A face cradle is provided so you can lie comfortably when on your stomach.

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Do I have to be completely undressed?

To derive the maximum benefits of the massage, you need to be undressed but Only to the extent you feel comfortable with. The therapist will leave the room while you undress, get comfortable on the massage table and cover yourself with the sheet he/she will use to "drape" you during the massage.
It does not matter to the professional therapist what you wear during YOUR massage. A massage therapist must have proper access to your body to get a good massage. The therapist will undrape only the part of your body that is being massaged, ensuring that modesty is respected at all times.

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How much will a massage cost me?

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How do I prepare for a massage and what do I do afterward?

To prepare yourself for your massage, taking a nice warm shower, or a short soak in the hot tub is a great way to start to unwind and prepare yourself for the massage.It is best not to have food for atleast 90 minutes prior to your massage session.Though you can take some light meal.
Most importantly, just relax, and look forward to this time for your health and mind.

After Massage:

Your massage therapist will leave the room while you dress. Take some time to feel any differences you may sense in your newly relaxed body.

Get up slowly! Massage often lowers blood pressure, so do not sit up or stand up quickly--you may feel dizzy otherwise.

Afterward, if you are able and not restricted due to medication, drink plenty of water to help your body's organs flush the toxins which will have been released and cleanse your tissues and cells replenishing them with new fresh blood and nutrients. Allow the effects of the massage to linger, and just let go, relax and enjoy the release of stress, soreness and pressure your body has been holding for to long

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How long is a massage?

An hour is a common length for a massage.This allows for a relaxing full-body massage, or for more in-depth work on particular areas.
A half-hour is great for an introduction to massage, and allows the therapist to work on a concentrated area.
One-and-a-half-hours is wonderful for a full body massage in addition to special attention to a problem area.
Chair massage is also offered-this is generally for a 10-20 minute massage done (with clothing) on a chair specifically designed for comfort during a massage.

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Do I really need a massage?

People throughout the life cycle--from the very young and very old to those in between--all find that a professional massage can have special applications suited for their needs.

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How often should I receive massage therapy?

This depends on individual issues. For an acute injury, weekly or biweekly may be best until it subsides. As part of your health and wellness routine, monthly sessions are recommended.

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Is massage therapy a luxury?

This is a mistaken perception that is rapidly changing as massage therapy becomes increasingly accepted as a natural part of a healthy lifestyle. In fact, according to one media characterization, "massage is to the human body what a tune-up is to a car. It provides a physical boost to the weary, sore and stressed."

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What Training Is Required Of A Professional Massage Therapist?

Professional massage therapists are well educated and professionally trained. They complete professional training at an accredited institution, and earn a diploma entitling the therapist to list their credentials. Examples include; CMT (Certified Massage Therapist), LMT (Licensed Massage Therapist), RMT (Registered Massage Therapist).

Many states now regulate massage therapists, requiring licenses, registration and/or certifications, which must be prominently displayed. Additionally, the therapist may have to pass state board exams, and be trained in First Aid and CPR.

Training for the modern massage therapist is extensive and includes the study of anatomy and physiology. Also, the connection between mind and body is emphasized as the therapist is trained in a number of massage techniques. Most therapists are insured and have memberships in professional organizations, actively continuing their education.

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