FAQ
Listed below are many frequently asked questions, about massage in general and/or specifically medical massage. Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions or concerns.
The Basics
Where will my massage session take place?
Your massage session 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.
Must I be completely undressed?
Some massage techniques are best with the patient unclothed, others with the patient clothed. Everything is done with the comfort level of the patient in mind. You should only undress to your level of comfort. You will be properly draped during the entire session.
Will the practitioner be present when I disrobe?
The practitioner will leave the room while you undress, relax onto the table, and cover yourself with the top sheet. The practitioner will knock on the door before entering the room.
Will I be covered during the session?
You will be properly draped at all times to keep you warm and comfortable. Only the area of the body being worked will be uncovered.
In Depth
What parts of my body will be massaged?
A session may include work on your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, abdomen, head, neck, and shoulders. This will be dependent on your specific condition and/or goals for the session.
What will the massage feel like?
A massage is a cooperative treatment, with communication and input between the practitioner and patient. Treatments vary each time, depending on the situation. Treatments can range from very specific work on an acute condition to a generalized massage geared towards overall stress and muscle tension reduction. The goal is to work deep into the body and to increase range of motion. This can sometimes be uncomfortable, but should never be painful.
Are there different kinds of massage?
There are numerous types of massage; various techniques can feel quite different. Some examples are:basic myofascial strokes, rocking movement, craniosacral, posture and movement re-education, application of pressure to specific points, and more. We can discuss which methods may be most appropriate for you.
What should I do during the massage session?
Prior to the massage, feel free to ask the practitioner any questions about the techniques or plan for the upcoming session. During the massage, make yourself comfortable. The practitioner will either gently move you or tell you what is needed throughout the session (such as lifting your arm). Many people close their eyes and completely relax, communicating if/when they need more or less pressure, another blanket, or anything else relevant to the session. Some sessions may have more active involvement from the patient, especially when working with acute conditions. If you have any questions regarding the session or about the particular technique you are receiving, feel free to ask.
Medical Massage
How will I feel after the massage session?
Most people feel very relaxed. It is also possible to feel achy for a day or two afterwards, similar to the feeling after a good workout. 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.
What are the benefits of massage?
Massage can help release chronic muscular tension and pain, improve circulation, increase joint flexibility, reduce mental and physical fatigue and stress, promote faster healing of injured muscular tissue, improve posture, and reduce blood pressure. Massage can often promote better sleep, improve concentration, reduce anxiety and create an overall sense of well-being.
Are there any medical conditions that would make massage inadvisable?
Yes. That's why it's imperative that, before you begin your session, you have filled out an intake form. It is very important that you inform the practitioner of any health concerns and current medications/supplements. If you are under a doctor's care for a specific condition, it is strongly advised that you receive a written recommendation for massage prior to any session. Depending on the condition, approval from your doctor may be required. (A referral is always required if we are billing your insurance company) .
Will my insurance cover massage?
Some insurance policies do have massage coverage for medical necessity. I am contracted with several companies. Each individual policy varies, so please contact me to check your coverage. Most policies do have deductibles, co-pays, or co-insurance. A referral from a referring provider is required (example: PCP, FNP, chiropractor, or physical therapist) in order for me to bill your insurance.
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