Answers to Your Most Common Questions About Massage Therapy
If you're considering massage therapy, you may have some questions about the process, what to expect, and how it can benefit you. Our therapists have compiled some of the most frequently asked questions to help you make an informed decision about your massage therapy experience.
Q: What Does Massage Therapy Treat?
A: Massage therapy is a versatile treatment that can be used to address a wide variety of conditions and injuries. Some common conditions that can be treated with massage therapy include:
- Back pain
- Headaches and migraines
- Muscle strains and sprains
- Posture problems
- Stress and anxiety
- Sports injuries
Q: What Can I Expect During a Massage Appointment?
A: On your first visit, you'll complete a confidential health history form, and your therapist will assess and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Be sure to inform your therapist of any medical conditions or medications you're taking.
During the treatment, your massage therapist will listen to your concerns and address your individual needs, contributing factors, and health history information to develop a customised treatment plan.
Q: Do I Need to Disclose All My Health Conditions on the Health History Form?
A: It's best to give an accurate picture of your health and injuries on your health history form, enabling your therapist to design the most appropriate and effective treatment for you.
Q: Should I Eat Before I Come for a Massage?
A: It's best to not eat for at least 90 minutes before your massage treatment and only have a light meal at that time. The digestion process directs the blood flow away from your peripheral tissues and concentrates it on the digestive tract.
Massage therapy draws the blood flow to the area tissues being worked on, drawing the blood away from the digestive tract and causing poor digestion and possible discomfort.
Q: What Preparations Should I Make Before My Appointment?
A: To fully enjoy the benefits of your massage therapy appointment, it's a good idea to plan for at least 30 minutes of quiet time or rest afterward. You should also have Epsom salt on hand for a soothing hot bath, which can help draw lactic acid out of your body and alleviate any stiffness you may feel the next day.
Q: Do Massage Therapists Have Cancellation Policies?
A: Yes, most massage therapists have cancellation policies in place. These policies may vary depending on the clinic, so it's important to ask your therapist what their policy is when making an appointment.
Many clinics require at least 24 hours notice of a cancellation, and you may be responsible for the full treatment fee if you don't cancel in time.
Q: Do I Need a Doctor's Referral for Massage Therapy?
A: No, you don't need a doctor's referral to see a registered massage therapist. However, some extended healthcare plans and insurers may require a referral before they will cover the cost of treatment. Be sure to check with your policy before scheduling an appointment.
Q: What If I'm Uncomfortable with My Body? Do I Have to Undress?
A: Let your therapist know your comfort level. It's possible to work on a client who is dressed. However, direct skin contact is best with an application of oil or lotion.
Your massage therapist is required to cover/drape you, exposing only the area they're working on. So opting to wear clothes is fine; bring clothes that you can get oil on, like a bathing suit or shorts and a tank top.
Q: Does the Gender of the Massage Therapist Make a Difference?
A: This is an issue of personal preference.
Q: I Bruise Easily, Can I Still Get a Massage?
A: It's important to let your massage therapist know if you bruise easily. Massage therapy is not recommended for people who suffer from hemophilia.
Q: Am I Expected to Talk During the Massage?
A: If you wish to have silence, you should say so at the beginning of the treatment. The therapist may, however, require verbal information pertinent to health findings during the treatment.
Q: Is One Massage Therapy Treatment Enough?
A: If you're looking to experience relaxation, one massage therapy treatment can be enough. However, for longer-term therapeutic benefits, a series of treatments is often recommended. Massage therapy is most effective when used over a series of treatments, with maintenance or preventive treatments following to help maintain the benefits.
Final Takeways
In conclusion, massage therapy is a versatile and effective treatment that can address a wide variety of conditions and injuries. By understanding what to expect from a massage therapy appointment and taking a few simple preparations, you can make the most of your treatment and enjoy its benefits for weeks to come.Choosing the right therapist to do your massage is also essential, and it's better to consult with a professional therapist. In Sophia’s Health Massage, you can find several kinds of massage, remedial massage, relaxation massage, deep tissue massage or even waxing. If you don't know which message you need, Sophia’s Health Massage therapist will help you decide it
