FAQ

What Type of Training is Required?

Currently, massage therapists are not federally regulated. This means every state has its own laws regarding training and education. Generally speaking if your state licenses Massage, then your therapist has had in depth training in Anatomy/Physiology, Kinesiology, Pathology and Treatment, Hydrotherapy, Treatment of Injuries, general Swedish Massage techniques and training in various other styles of massage. To obtain a massage license on must then pass a rigorous state exam. All our therapists are licensed.

Furthermore, most professional therapists will belong to a reputable organization such as the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA), Associated Bodyworks and Massage Professionals (AMBP) or the International Massage Association (IMA). Members of these groups uphold the highest standards for professionalism and ethics in the industry.

What Will My Insurance Cover?

Massage is becoming more and more recognized as a valid modality to use in the treatment of soft tissue injury. As this acceptance is broadening, many private insurance companies are including massage and bodywork as covered benefits. You should check with your individual carrier to see if massage is available to you. In most cases a doctor’s referral is needed and there must be proof of medical necessity. When approved, we gladly accept insurance. We can check your insurance coverage for you if you wish.

What Should I Do Before My Treatment?

Avoid heavy eating and alcohol consumption prior to massage or body treatment. Please let us know about any preferences regarding (pressure, music, room temperature at the time of your treatment so we may prepare your personalized treatment.

When Should I Arrive?

Please come in 10 to 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment to fill out an information sheet, this is so we can have time to discuss your needs before the time of treatment.

What Should I Expect During My Treatment?

You will have a few moments to consult with the therapist for areas of concern. You will be left alone to change clothes before and after treatment.

Do I Take My Clothes Off?

For a full body relaxation massage, most people undress completely (underwear is worn at your discretion). Your privacy is respected at all times as you are warmly covered with a clean sheet; only the area being massaged is exposed. Most types of bodywork, including Swedish Massage, incorporate the use of oils to lubricate the skin and allow for easier application of certain strokes. This is best done without clothes worn.

Some clients prefer not to disrobe; we welcome your comfort. If you’re more comfortable not disrobing please bring shorts and a comfortable top.

What Should I Do After My Treatment And What Should I Expect?

Please drink lots of water, as it helps flush out any toxins that were released during treatment. Most people feel relaxed and/or refreshed after a massage. Occasionally, some people experience post massage soreness the day after their massage. This is nothing to worry about. Most people feel a great reduction of their original muscle tightness and/or pain after the delayed soreness resolves itself.

In general, massage is a relaxing experience that feels good. In some cases, treatment of a tight muscle or treatment on a painful injury may first cause some discomfort, which will lessen after several minutes. A trained therapist knows that to have the most profound effect-deeper is not always better.

There are several theories, none of them with universal support, about the exact physiological cause of this delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). An old theory suggests that excess lactic acid in the muscles is the cause of this soreness. However, studies conducted by exercise physiologist, Dr. George A. Brooks, have concluded, “lactic acid does not cause muscle soreness, fatigue or the “burn” of intense exercise.” Nor does it cause post-massage soreness. While excess lactic acid is typically present in sore muscles, it is not the cause of the soreness itself.

More research must be conducted before the exact mechanisms can be determined, but it is most commonly believed that post-massage muscle soreness is due to tight muscles having been stretched and realigned, adhesions and scar tissue having been broken apart so new tissue can form and lay down correctly, and/or deep pressure having been applied to an injured muscles to release spasm. All such procedures help muscles to relax and heal. However, they can also cause soreness the next day. This delayed onset muscle soreness is not unlike what a person experiences after intense exercise.

Any time muscle tenderness occurs, place one cup of Epson salts in hot bath water. Soak for 20 minutes and follow with a cool shower. (this soak/bath is contraindicated for anyone with cardiovascular problem or any other conditions that might respond negatively to forms of heat therapy.)

What Are The Benefits of Massage?

Increases circulation, allowing the body to pump more oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs including the skin. Massage stimulates the lymph flow, the body’s natural defense system, against toxic invaders. For example, in breast cancer patients, massage has been shown to increase the cells that fight cancer. It relaxes and softens injured and overused muscles increasing recovery time.

Managing your stress with massage can allow for greater energy and reduction of stress related disorders such as depression, anxiety, muscular pain, chronic aches, persistent infections, headaches and insomnia. Massage quiets the nervous system and relaxes the mind, which leads to improved emotional and mental health.

Massage improves range and releases endorphins-the body’s natural painkillers-and is used in chronic illness, injury and recovery form surgery to control and relieve pain. It relieves pain for migraine suffers and decreases the need for medication.

Please feel free to contact us after your treatment if you have any questions or concerns. We welcome all types of feedback.

FAQ