Frequently Asked Questions


FREQUENTLY ASKED MASSAGE QUESTIONS

What happens during a typical massage?
When you arrive for your scheduled appointment, you will be asked to fill out a Client Intake Form.  This form provides me with your pertinent personal information, medical history, and massage preferences.  Once you've completed the Client Intake Form, you will be left alone in the private massage room to get undressed and settled on the massage table.  Pillows, bolsters, and other supports will be used during the course of the massage to keep your body position and posture as comfortable as possible.  During a typical massage, the lights will be dimmed and soft music will play to enhance your relaxation.   Massage techniques will vary depending upon the type of massage requested (treatment, relaxation, etc.).  Throughout the course of the massage I will check in with you to confirm that the appropriate pressure is being used.  Honest feedback is a necessity for creating the perfect massage experience, so please don't hesitate to communicate during your massage!

Do I need to be completely undressed?
The amount of clothing you remove is entirely up to you.  You should undress to your comfort level.  Before your massage begins, you will be left alone in the private massage room to undress.  Sheets, blankets, and towels will be used as drapings during the entire massage, so the only parts showing are the parts being treated. This draping method helps to keep you warm, comfortable, and relaxed. 

Will massage therapy hurt?
A general Swedish relaxation massage should not be painful.  If at any time the treatment you are receiving is causing you too much discomfort, just ask me to stop or ease off for a few minutes. Be open and let me know how you are feeling...your treatment will be a lot more enjoyable and productive. After your massage, you may feel some minor discomfort or muscle soreness for a few days until your body readjusts and heals itself. 
Certain specific therapeutic treatments and Deep Tissue Massage can be painful.  During the course of treatment, you should feel better at the end of each session.  Also, the sessions should become more comfortable as your dysfunction improves. 

Can massage help reduce stress levels? 
Anything that can help you relax will reduce your stress levels, and massage is one of the most relaxing therapies you can receive. Many turn to massage to manage day to day stress. Massage therapy treats the problem holistically; without using suppression chemicals to slow you down, massage therapists attempt to treat the whole person and try to help your body regain homeostasis, achieving a balance between the various systems of your body to allow natural healing to occur. 

Do massage therapists have a Code of Ethics?
As a member of the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA), I adhere to the following Code of Ethics put forth by the AMTA (www.amtamassage.org):

"1.  Demonstrate commitment to provide the highest quality massage therapy/bodywork to those who seek their professional service.
2.  Acknowledge the inherent worth and individuality of each person by not discriminating or behaving in any prejudicial manner with clients and/or colleagues.
3.  Demonstrate professional excellence through regular self-assessment of strengths, limitations, and effectiveness by continued education and training.
4.  Acknowledge the confidential nature of the professional relationship with clients and respect each client's right to privacy.
5.  Conduct all business and professional activities within their scope of practice, the law of the land, and project a professional image.
6.  Refrain from engaging in any sexual conduct or sexual activities involving their clients.
7.  Accept responsibility to do no harm to the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of self, clients, and associates."  --American Massage Therapy Association

How much of my body will be massaged?
I design each massage to suit your individual needs.  If  you are seeking treatment for a specific injury or condition, the entire session may focus on a single area. There may also be a need to treat body areas that are adversely affected by injuries, such as when a sprained ankle causes the opposite leg to bear all the body's weight and stress of walking.  
A "full body massage" usually includes the back, neck, shoulders, arms, hands, legs, feet, face, chest (above breasts for women), and hips. If being massaged in certain areas causes you to feel uncomfortable, you should inform me and I will adjust the massage accordingly.    
 
Who should not get a massage?
There are several reasons (contraindications) why people should not receive massage. 
If you are experiencing any of the following conditions or symptoms, you should not receive a massage: 
-fever
-any infectious illness or disease in the acute phase (i.e. cold or flu)
-kidney disease
-high blood pressure (unless controlled by medication)
-blood clotting disorders
-any acute injury, fracture, sprain or strain.
 
If you are experiencing any of the following conditions or symptoms, please advise your massage therapist so appropriate avoidance or precautions can be taken: 
-infectious skin conditions (i.e. warts, plantar warts, nail fungal infections)
-varicose veins
-any cuts or abrasions to your skin

If you have any questions as to whether or not you should receive massage due to a particular condition, injury, or disease, please feel free to contact me before your massage.
 
 
HOW TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT USING MY WEBSITE
 
How do I schedule an appointment using the scheduler?
Browse to my scheduler page and find an appointment you want and click the button.
If you dont have an account you should be prompted to make one.  I do accept all major credit cards, however I only accept in-office payments.
Notice: you are unable to make more than one appointment until after your first appointment has been completed.