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Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Do I have to take all of my clothes off when I get a massage?
A. No. You should undress to your level of comfort. Although removing clothes sometimes makes massage more effective, that benefit is lost if you feel uncomfortable.
Many clients feel comfortable with undressing to their underwear, and that is perfectly acceptable. In my practice, I have clients who do completely undress, many who leave their briefs on, and a few who only undress from the waist up. That is how each is most comfortable and perfectly acceptable. It sometimes limits what the therapist can do, but it is YOUR massage.
You will also be draped at all times, for more on that, see below.
Q. I’m really ticklish. Is that going to be a problem?
A. Probably not. The pressure applied during a massage is firm enough that most people are not sensitive. If you are, however, please inform me when you first arrive.
Q. Will I be covered during the massage?
A. Yes. You will have a top sheet and probably a blanket on top of you. The only part of your body uncovered (aside from your head) will be the part I am working on. Genital areas for everyone, and breasts on women will always remain draped. Please note this is required by South Carolina law. The only exception to this rule is breast massage may be performed as part of breast cancer rehabilitation, but only with prior written permission of the client.
Q: Will a massage hurt?
A: Massage should not be painful, there will be areas that are tender to the touch and should be worked out, but it should not be unbearable if so you should tell your therapist immediately so the therapist can adjust the pressure for your comfort.
Q: What are the benefits of massage?
A: Massage therapy is designed to stretch and loosen muscles, improve blood flow and the movement of lymph throughout the body, facilitate the removal of metabolic wastes resulting from exercise or inactivity, and increase the flow of oxygen and nutrients to cells and tissue. Massage stimulates the release of endorphins (the body’s natural painkiller) in the brain and nervous system. Massage also provides a relaxed state of alertness and reduces mental stress.
Q: How long does a massage session usually last?
A: A massage session can last from 30 minutes to an hour and a half, depending on the amount of time the client needs.
Q: How old do you have to be in order to get an massage?
A: There is no age limit for massage therapy. There is infant massage for babies, to geriatric massage for older clients.
Q: If I'm pregnant can I still receive a massage?
A: Massage during pregnancy is usually safe for most mothers. Your massage therapist will want to know if you are having any problems or complications with your pregnancy before you begin. If you are, then your therapist will require approval from your primary health care provider before proceeding with any bodywork. Prenatal massage helps to relieve stress on weight bearing joints, such as ankles, lower back and pelvis. Neck and back pain caused by muscle imbalance and weakness are relieved. Prenatal also helps reduce swelling in hands and feet, it also lessens sciatic pain and calf cramps.
I am not trained in prenatal massage, and would refer you to another therapist.
Q: Is there more than one type of massage?
A: There are several types of massage: Swedish, Deep Tissue, Trigger Point, Shiatsu, Sports Massage, Acupressure, Myofascial Release.
These are just a few of the different types of massage available.
Q: I've never had a massage before. What should I expect in my first session?
A: Many people are nervous when they come for their first massage since they really don't know what to expect. First you will be asked to fill out a form which gives me information on your health and where you are experiencing pain. We will then talk a little about this and we will come to an agreement on what type of massage would suit you. You might only want a very relaxing massage on the first session, and that is fine. Alternatively, you may be in a lot of pain and want some deeper effective work.
You will then be brought into my massage room, which is used only for my work. I will instruct you on what way to lie first (either face up or face down) and I will leave you to get undressed and to get under a sheet on the massage table. There may be a blanket on there also and a table warmer may be used. You only undress as far as you are comfortable. Your comfort is my first priority. After that, I will come back into the room and begin the session. I only undrape the part of the body that I am working on at that particular time. Again, this is to ensure that you are comfortable. Your job for the session is to relax and you are welcome to give feedback during the session. Sometimes I may ask you for feedback when working on certain points. It is up to you as to whether you want to fall asleep on the table or talk a little.
Q: What is Massage Therapy?
A:Massage Therapy is a hands-on manipulation of the soft tissues of the body including muscles, connective tissue, tendons, ligaments and joints. It is also an alternative health option to help alleviate the soft tissue discomfort associated with everyday and occupational stresses, muscular overuse and many chronic pain syndromes. It can also greatly reduce the development of painful muscular patterning, if employed early enough after accidents involving trauma and injury.
Massage therapists work to improve the circulation of blood through the body and to speed the removal of metabolic waste products from muscles. Their skilled kneading increases the flexibility of muscles, ligaments, and other soft tissues. Some people visit a massage therapist to relieve pain or to warm up before a sporting event. Others want to relax and reduce stress.
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