First things first...

If you haven't filled out an online health history, you'll have to do this first. To save yourself from taking away from treatment time, it would be a great idea to do this ahead of time.

You'll then be asked general questions to establish what areas you would like worked on, if there are any conditions needing to be addressed, and to determine if massage is appropriate for you. Certain assessments and testing may also be used to evaluate your condition and to see if you have any presenting complaints.

It is important to list all health concerns and medications so the therapist can adapt the session to your specific needs without doing any harm. It is also important to list any allergies so the therapist is aware if he/she needs to use a different oil or lotion during the session.

Not necessarily...

You should undress to the level you are comfortable. For a full body massage, and more specific work such as low back, pelvis and hip treatments, most get completely undressed. However, if you will be more comfortable during the session leaving your undergarments on, that's is perfectly acceptable. The clothes left on will be worked around as best as possible. You shouldn't be too nervous and unable to relax or you won't get the optimal benefit from the session.

You will be given privacy to undress and get covered comfortably on the table before the therapist comes in.

If you prefer to stay fully clothed, then I recommend you explore chair massage or stretch therapy as an alternative option for treatment.

You don't have to do anything... 

Make yourself comfortable. If your therapist wants you to adjust your position, she/he will either move you or will ask you to move what is needed. Make sure you don't try to "HELP" the massage therapist by anticipating what he/she wants you to do or to move. Otherwise, you can change your position anytime to make yourself more comfortable.

Many people close their eyes and relax completely during a session; others prefer to talk. It's up to you. It is your massage, and whatever feels natural to you is the best way to relax. Do not hesitate to ask questions at any time, as this is part of your healthcare and is a great time to learn more about your body and it's needs at this time.

Not necessarily...

This depends on the type of massage and the depth of the strokes. A light, relaxing massage that doesn't probe very deep into the muscles shouldn't hurt. With that being said, there is a 'feels good' hurt and an 'ouch, stop it' hurt. A good massage, even a really deep tissue massage, should always stay in the 'feels good' hurt range.

Pain can be an indication that the muscle is possibly injured or inflamed and pressure should be adjusted. Also, pain can cause you to tighten up and negate the relaxing effects of the massage. The most effective and deepest massage always works with your body's natural response, not against it.

That depends...

"Some is better than none."

What does that mean? Well, it varies from person to person. If you are just looking for some occasional relaxation, then a session every 3-6 weeks may be fine for you. However, if you are looking to address a specific condition, then it is recommended to go more frequently at first and then slowly taper down to a maintenance schedule. Sometimes more frequent 30-minute sessions can be effective until your goals are met and a maintenance schedule is in place.

There is no universal answer for this, so frequency of sessions should be discussed with your massage therapist after your treatment when he/she has a better hands-on understanding of your particular muscular issues.

You should never feel like you are being "upsold" or that you "have to" book another session before you're ready because the therapist has told you that you should.

Again, that depends...

Most people feel very relaxed. Some experience a significant decrease or freedom from long-term aches and pains. Many feel a little slowed down for a short period and then notice an increase of energy, heightened awareness and increased productivity which can last for days.

If you received a deeper massage, you may be slightly sore the next day - much like a good workout at the gym. Sometimes a hot shower, or a soak in the tub can ease this soreness.

THANK YOU for asking!

In my opinion there are few conditions which would prevent you from enjoying massage. You should not book a massage if you have a fever, cold/flu, or contagious skin infection. If you've had a positive COVID test result, I ask that you schedule your next massage at least 3 weeks after initial diagnosis,. If you've been a direct contact, please wait at least 1 week to allow any potential "late" symptoms to appear. That's it.

There are many other conditions in which your therapist may need to adapt his/her techniques (i.e. arthritis or osteoporosis) or avoid an area completely (i.e. cuts or burns). With some conditions it is a good idea to get an approval from your physician before you receive massage (cancer, certain heart conditions, pregnancy). This doesn't mean you can't get massage. But its always better to err on the side of caution.

Your therapist can advise you about your specific needs.