1. What is massage therapy?
Massage Therapy is the manipulation of the soft tissues of the body including muscles, connective tissue, tendons, ligaments and joints. Massage therapy helps alleviate the soft tissue discomfort associated with everyday and occupational stresses, muscular over-use and many chronic pain conditions. Massage Therapy is not a substitute for visits to your regular heath care provider.  A massage therapist can not diagnose or prescribe.  Please visit or talk to your health care provider prior to receiving a massage if you are not sure if Massage Therapy is right for you.

2. What are the benefits of Massage Therapy?
Massage can improve circulation, help to loosen contracted muscles and stimulate weak muscles.  Massage can also aid relaxation, help reduce stress and help prevent and relieve pain from injuries and muscle spasm.  It can also improve flexibility.  It can improve posture and strengthen an immune system. It can help improve the overall well being of client’s mental and physical well being.

3. What should I expect during my first massage therapy visit?
To ensure that you are given the best massage possible you will be asked to fill out a health intake form.  This form will be kept confidential and will not be seen by anyone without written consent from the client.  Prior to the massage the therapist will ask you general and specific questions relating to how you answered the questions on the intake form.  If there is anything that needs to be addressed or assessed the therapist will do so prior to performing a massage.  If the therapist believes that massage therapy is not appropriate for you because of medical reasons the session will be rescheduled or may request written consent from your physician.

4. What do I wear during the massage?
This varies from what type of massage you are going to receive.  If you are going to receive a chair massage then you would be fully clothed for the session.  If you are receiving a full body massage on the table then you will undress in private to your comfort level.  Most people will undress completely but some people feel more comfortable wearing underwear.  No matter what you decide you will be completely covered during the massage session and only the area being massaged will be undraped.

5. Is Massage Therapy for everyone?
No!  There are several medical conditions where massage therapy would not be appropriate.  That is why you are required to fill out a health intake form before your session.  That is why it is very important that you be completely honest and forthcoming will all of your medical history.  The massage therapist would never want to do anything to hurt you.  If you are under a physicians care you may be asked to provide the therapist with a written consent before receiving a massage.

6. Will the Massage Hurt?
Massage Therapy is NOT meant to hurt you.  The old saying, “No pain, no gain” does NOT refer to Massage Therapy.  Everyone has a different tolerance.  So, it is very important to inform your therapist if the pressure is too deep for your comfort level.  The therapist will adjust their technique based on your comfort level.

7. What type of lotion or oil is used?
Most massages are performed with a dual purpose cream unless otherwise requested.  You can request oil if you prefer oils.  Aromatherapy oils will only be used if requested.  It is important to inform your therapist of any allergies you may have.  Please inform the therapist of any allergies you have when you make the massage therapy appointment.

8. Can I talk during a Massage Therapy Session?
Communication between the therapist and client is very important.  It is important for the therapist to know if the client has any questions or concerns about their session.  That is why the therapist will try and address all questions prior to the massage.  During the massage most people like a quiet and relaxing session.  The therapist WILL periodically inquire if you like the pressure and are comfortable.  It is extremely important that you are honest with the therapist.   They will not be offended in any way if you tell them you would like more or less pressure or you are too cold or too hot.  We do ask that you leave your cell phone on vibrate and only talk on the phone if ABSOLUTELY necessary.  Please know that your session time will NOT be extended if you have to take a break to talk on the phone unless it is an emergency!