Frequently Asked Questions about Massage Therapy
What should I expect during my first visit?
At the beginning of your first visit the therapist will ask you to fill out an intake form (health history). It is very important that you complete this form as accurately as possible and list all injuries and medications that you take, as there may be reasons that you shouldn’t get massage at this time. Once you have completed the form your therapist will take you to the massage room where your session will take place and carefully go over the form with you to help determine if there are any areas that should be focused on during the massage. Your information is kept confidential.
I’m modest – what should I wear during my massage?
Your comfort is one of the most important parts of the massage. If you aren’t comfortable, then you can’t relax and it will be more difficult for the therapist to work the muscles so that you feel better. You will be covered by a sheet during the session, except for the area being worked on. You are welcome to wear shorts and a t-shirt if you prefer. Your comfort during sessions is very important so that you will get the full benefit of massage.
What should I do during the session?
Just relax. Your therapist will check in with you occasionally during the session in order to assess your continued comfort. The therapist will move you or ask you to move if need be. If you would rather talk during the session, that is all right too. The therapist will take his cue from you.
How will the massage feel?
That depends on what type of massage you are having and what techniques the therapist uses. For Swedish massage there should be no pain at all, only light soothing strokes. For deep tissue or medical massage, there may be a little pain or discomfort since these techniques go deeper to the tight, sore muscles.
How will I feel after the massage?
Most types of massage release endorphins into the bloodstream, so immediately after the massage most people feel relaxed and maybe a little light headed. For a couple of days after the massage you may feel a little sore because toxins in the muscles have been released into the bloodstream.
How can I get rid of the soreness?
Most therapists will recommend drinking plenty of water to help flush your body’s systems.
Should I be silent or engage in conversation during my massage?
You may talk as little or as much as you like. Most people are comfortable remaining quiet as they drift into a deep state of relaxation while others find that chatting helps them calm down. Feel free to do what comes natural, including falling asleep. Certain types of massage therapy require occasional feedback regarding pressure and technique, but most people achieve the greatest therapeutic benefits by limiting their conversation and quieting their mind so that they may completely focus on their body.
What if I am self-conscious about my body?
Our professionally trained massage therapists have worked on every type of body, from young to old, to large and small. Your session is based completely on your preferences, so feel free toyou’re your therapist know if you would rather him/her work through specific areas of clothing, or avoid an area all together.
What areas of my body will be massaged?
For a typical full body treatment, your back, front and back arms, front and back legs, and neck and shoulders are massaged. Depending on areas of tightness and your goals for the session, your upper pectorals, stomach and hip muscles can be included. Additional areas based on your post-massage activities are your facial area and scalp.
Do I need to shower before my massage?
A warm shower helps to relax tense muscles if you have been exercising or doing strenuous activity prior to your massage; otherwise, showering is not necessary.
Do you have any questions that haven’t been answered here?
If you have any questions that haven’t been answered here please feel free to call us at 864-560-6140 or e-mail us at _massage@srhs.com