Therapeutic Massage: Frequently Asked Questions
by Roberta Wind, LMT
What takes place
during a therapeutic massage?
Upon arrival you will be asked to complete a confidential
intake form and health history. The
therapist will discuss your expectations and explain the benefits of massage
therapy specific to your needs. Before
the session you will privately remove your clothes to your comfort level and go
under the sheet and blanket lying face down (prone) The therapist will begin
with an assessment using compression techniques and be able to evaluate your
needs. You will remain fully draped
except for the areas being massaged.
Using a light cream, the therapist will perform therapy using various
techniques to promote circulation and healing, asking for feedback on
comfortable pressure. The goal is to promote circulation and help the client
relax, utilizing other tools such as relaxing music, aromatherapy in a quiet
comfortable setting The only
interruption to your session will be when asked to turn over to massage the
body in face up position (supine) After
the session, feel free to ask questions and the therapist will offer
suggestions to continue your wellness at home and discuss further
sessions. Drinking more water than usual
after the session will help continue the
effects of massage by releasing any toxins in the body.
What are the benefits
of therapeutic massage?
According to the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA)
72% indicate the prime reason people
receive massage is medical: 43% medical, 29% stress. Some benefits listed below:
Increase range of motion
Reduce fibromyalgia pain
Reduce Low back pain
Relieves stress
Reduce postoperative pain
Reduce joint replacement pain
Manage low back pain
Help chronic neck pain
Reduce muscle tension
Relieve tension headaches
Sleep better
Ease symptoms of depression
Reduce osteoarthritis pain
Decrease migraine frequency
Improve cardiovascular health
Improve balance in older people
Decrease rheumatoid arthritis
Temper effects of dementia
Lower blood pressure
Promote relaxation
How often should I
receive a massage?
Many clients are receiving massage in coordination with Dr.
Selma acupuncture or Dr. Gary functional
medicine sessions. Massage therapy
complements their healing and appointments can be made in coordination with
their sessions to help with ease of scheduling.
A good strategy is to listen to your body and follow its lead as to how
you feel when receiving massage and how it helps in your quest for
wellness. The massage therapist is happy
to accommodate your busy schedule and
the receptionist will make appropriate appointments for you. If you prefer continual massage therapy you
can discuss packages such as buy 5 sessions and get the 6th free. Take advantage of the upgrades such as hot
stone therapy, reiki energy, reflexology, cold stone facials, foot scrubs and
aromatherapy to enhance your experience.
Am I expected to tip
the massage therapist?
Tips are not expected but very appreciated. Massage therapists receive a percentage of
the massage fee and clients typically show their appreciation for
a session with an average of 10 to
25%
Who can benefit from
massage?
Everyone!
Call to book your relaxation with Roberta today by calling 630.428.9001