Prior to each session
For maximum comfort and benefit, avoid heavy eating for two hours prior to treatment. Please make sure you have a proper fluid intake the day of the massage. Your body will respond better to the work and if need be, more accomplishments can be expected. Caffeine and alcohol intake should be avoided. Please avoid wearing jewelry that will be time consuming to remove. Be prepared to put long hair up and out of the way. Please obtain any relevant medical or test reports regarding your condition. It is of Extreme Importance that you note any changes since your last visit including, but not limited to, a change of medications or level of pain or stiffness. Should you have any of the following, (Contraindications) please call ahead of time to make sure massage is appropriate: INFLAMMATION, SEVERE PAIN, OPEN CUTS, BRUISES, BURNS, HEADACHE, SKIN RASH, SUNBURN, FEVER, COLD OR FLU OR DIARRHEA.
First Visit
Relaxation / De-Stress form of Massage Therapy
You will be asked to fill out a brief medical history form which will be discussed with the Massage Therapist. You will be asked if you have a particular area you would like the therapist to concentrate on, such as your lower back.
Massage Therapy for a Specific Condition
You will be asked to fill out a Medical history form, which will be thoroughly discussed. This form will give us information about your past medical history, current medications, the reason for seeking massage therapy, etc. Insurance information will be taken, if applicable. Any medical reports or test reports that are relevant to your care should be brought with you and will be discussed. A Range of Motion Evaluation will be done if necessary. An individual, personalized treatment plan will be created.
All Visits
We will discuss your progress, how you are feeling and how you've have been since our last session. The therapist will leave the room while you disrobe and freshen up; deodorant and powder are readily available. You will relax on the table, covering yourself with a fresh sheet or towel. All linens are changed between sessions. You should feel comfortable at all times. If at any point you are uncomfortable, please let the therapist know. The temperature in the room, the lights and the noise level should all be pleasant. You will be warmly draped at all times, except for the area being worked on. We will use Jojoba as a lubricant rather than oil.
The massage should feel comfortable at all times. The work will always be within your comfort level. However, should it be necessary to do deeper work or trigger point work, and the therapist feels it may cause some discomfort, you will be advised ahead of time. It will be your decision whether or not to use this method for treatment.
During the massage, you may choose to just close your eyes and relax or you may choose to talk. It is up to you. If the therapist feels it is necessary to discuss her/his findings during the massage, she/he will, otherwise we can discuss it afterwards. Please keep in mind, that muscles can sometimes be like minds, "difficult to read." We will try our best, but you ultimately know what feels good and what doesn't. If you even think the therapist is getting close to making you uncomfortable, let her/him know. She/he might need to go about doing the work differently.
The therapist will leave the room after the massage so that you may change in private. It is very important that you get up slowly and take your time. Sometimes massage can cause a little light- headedness. Re-orient yourself. Take your time. We will then discuss your session and follow-up care. We will discuss your treatment plan.
After Your Session
Drink extra fluids that do not contain caffeine or alcohol. This will help prolong the effects of the massage. The fluids will help the muscles stay "looser" longer. In addition, it will help flush the accumulated chemicals that were released. The work consists of working the muscles. It can sometimes feel like a work out for you as well. Feeling a little sore afterwards is not uncommon. Having a proper fluid intake will keep this to a minimum. Being a little sore is different than feeling achy or having pain. Any aches or pain should be reported immediately to your doctor!