Do I need to take my clothes off?
For most types of massage therapy, the answer is usually yes. Often, the amount of clothing you need to remove depends largely on the extent of the treatment you are receiving. For full body treatments, most find they are comfortable undressing down to their panties, briefs or shorts. Your therapist will leave the room while you undress and dress. Draping with a towel or sheeting always protects your privacy and modesty. Since no two therapists are alike, it is best to ask during the consultation what is preferred.
Sometimes people won't seek massage therapy because of a poor body image. I invite you to step out of your comfort zone and allow yourself to experience the wonderful, non-judgmental touch of massage therapy. Often people enjoy an improved sense of themselves and their bodies as a result of massage.
What is the best frequency of treatment?
This will vary, but here are some guidelines. If you are seeking massage treatment for remediation from a recent injury, it is usually recommended that the first two or three treatments be spaced every three to four days or weekly depending on the severity of the pain or dysfunction. For long-term or chronic dysfunctions like arthritis, a monthly treatment is recommended until your condition is stabilized. For therapeutic treatments, most people find that once a month suits their needs, but some come more frequently.
How do I choose a therapist?
Since you are paying for this treatment, you are ultimately in control. The best way to find a good therapist is through a recommendation from someone who has been to see the therapist and is happy with the treatment they received.
Will therapy hurt?
The old adage "no pain no gain" is not relevant to massage therapy. You may well experience some mild pain and discomfort but it should never be beyond your tolerance. After a session, you may also feel some mild discomfort or muscle soreness for a few days until your body readjusts and heals itself. PLEASE feel free to communicate with me during your session. If I need to ease off or stop for a moment, just let me know.
Can massage help reduce stress levels?
According to medical studies 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?
Yes, massage therapists adhere to the following code:
-We provide the best quality care to any one that seeks our professional help.
-We accept all clients without discrimination.
-We acknowledge the confidential nature of the professional relationship with a client and respect each client's right to privacy.
-We practice only the modalities in which we have been professionally trained and certified.
-We in no way participate or engage in any type of sexual activities with our client.
-We maintain a safe, clean and professional environment.
How much of my body will be massaged?
It depends on the reason you are seeking massage therapy for any particular session. When the client is 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. For relaxation massages, the client and therapist should discuss and agree upon the areas to be massaged. A "full body massage" usually includes the back, neck, shoulders, arms, hands, legs, feet, chest (above breasts for women) and hips.
What studies have been done on massage therapy?
Massage has been studied for its use with premature infants, adults who have recently experienced a heart attack or stroke, athletes who desire to increase their athletic performance and shorten recuperation time, victims of sexual abuse, grieving patients and those who have lost limbs or experience unusual pains.
HOW DO I SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT?
Call 205.410-6292 – if I'm in a session, please leave your name and a number where you can be reached. I'll return your call as soon as possible.
