What should I do during a massage or bodywork session?
How will I feel after a massage or bodywork session?
Can massage really help with my back/shoulder pain, migraines, fibromyalgia etc?
What are the benefits of massage?
Is massage always appropriate?
How many appointments will I need?
“I’m sick!” or “I have a cold!’ Should I still come for my appointment?
What is your cancellation/lateness policy?
Is massage covered by health insurance?
Are you held to any professional standards?
What to look for in a therapist?
What can I expect?
On your first visit, you will be asked to fill out a confidential intake form describing your medical history, recent injuries and goals/expectations for the session. Your therapist will briefly discuss any health concerns or problem areas, determine the best approach and tailor the session to address your specific needs. Depending on the type of bodywork to be performed, you will be asked to disrobe to your level of comfort. The therapist will leave the room while you undress, relax onto the table and cover yourself with a sheet. The room will be warm, quiet and soft music will be playing to set a relaxing mood. You will remain properly draped at all times to keep you warm and comfortable. Only the area being worked on will be exposed. A typical full body session will include work on the head, face, neck, shoulders, arms, legs, feet and hands. When the session is completed, the therapist will leave the room so you can get dressed. Although no two sessions are alike, these simple steps are universal.
How long will a session last?
The average full-body massage or bodywork session lasts approximately one hour. This gives time for a deeply relaxing full body session, or more in-depth work on a particular problem area. A half-hour can be an excellent introduction to bodywork, but only allows time for a partial session, such as back, neck and shoulders, or legs and feet. Many people prefer a 60- to 90-minute session for optimal relaxation. Always allow relaxation time prior to and after the session.
How will a massage feel?
It depends on the techniques used. Often, a light oil or lotion is used to reduce excessive friction to the skin. The oil also hydrates your skin. All essential oils used are 100 % pure, therapeutic grade. (Please be sure to mention if there are any allergies). Massage on normal, healthy tissue is almost always a pleasant experience. Massage in an area of injury or chronic pain may at first cause some discomfort which usually lessens throughout the massage. The saying “no pain, no gain” does not apply to massage and bodywork. The most effective and deepest massage works with the body’s natural responses, not when the body is resisting. No matter what type of massage you receive you should never experience pain beyond your comfort level. Always tell your therapist if you feel any discomfort so that he or she can make adjustments accordingly. Click here for types of massage and bodywork.
What should I do during a massage or bodywork session?
Prior to the massage, tell the therapist what area may need focused attention. During the massage, make yourself comfortable. Relax. There’s no need to help. The therapist will either gently move you or tell you what is needed throughout the session (such as lifting your arm). Many people just close their eyes and completely relax, communicating if/when they need more or less pressure, another blanket, or anything else relevant to the session; others prefer to talk. It’s your massage and whatever feels comfortable to you is the best way to relax. Deep natural breaths can help with relaxation and letting go. Do not hesitate to ask questions at any time.
How will I feel after a massage or bodywork session?
Responses to massage and bodywork vary. Most people feel very relaxed and refreshed. Some experience freedom from long-term aches and pains developed from tension or repetitive activity. After an initial period of feeling fatigued, people often experience increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity which can last for days. It is important to drink plenty of water for at least 24 hours afterwards to help eliminate toxins (i.e. cellular/metabolic waste products) released during the massage. It is not uncommon to feel a little soreness after a deeper massage. This can be minimized by proper hydration before and after your session.
Can massage really help with my back/shoulder pain, migraines, fibromyalgia etc?
Massage and bodywork can definitely help alleviate symptoms caused by a number of ailments including: chronic and acute neck, back and shoulder pain; headaches/migraines; TMJ; repetitive strain injuries (carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, tennis/golfer’s elbows); sports injuries (tight hamstrings/quads, strains, sprains); pregnancy; sciatica; low back pain; arthritis and fibromyalgia. Massage can help manage stress, reduce physical/mental fatigue and anxiety, and enhance circulation, flexibility and immunity. Massage and bodywork are known to promote better sleep, improve concentration and energy and create an overall sense of wellbeing. Massage and bodywork are also powerful tools in post-operative rehabilitation. Read more under benefits of massage.
What are the benefits of massage?
Many people think of it as a luxury, but massage is believed to be one of the oldest forms of medical care, dating back to the pharaohs of ancient Egypt. The therapeutic benefits of massage continue to be studied, but research has shown it to be effective in:
• Improving circulation – pumps oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs
• Strengthening the immune system – stimulates lymph flow, the body’s natural defense system
• Decreasing pain – releases endorphins, the body’s natural pain killers
• Promoting tissue regeneration – reduces scar tissue and stretch marks
• Reducing muscle soreness and stiffness
• Improving range of motion
• Alleviating low back pain
• Relieving migraine pain
• Reducing blood pressure
• Lessening depression
• Reducing anxiety and stress
• Easing withdrawal symptoms
• Treating cancer-related fatigue
• Easing labor pain and stress
• Promoting restful sleep
• Improving posture and joint flexibility
• Reducing post-surgery adhesions and swelling
• Enhancing athletic performance and recovery
• Increasing awareness of the body-mind connection
Is massage always appropriate?
No. That’s why it’s imperative that you inform the therapist of any health problems or medications you are taking. Also, let your health care provider know you are receiving massage or bodywork. Close communication between the massage therapist and health care practitioner can often lead to the best outcomes. In certain cases, the therapist may require a written recommendation for massage and bodywork from your health care provider.
How many appointments will I need?
The appropriate frequency, duration and number of sessions will depend on your problem, its severity and how long you have had it, as well as your overall health. Massage therapy and bodywork are not quick fixes. These modalities help increase the body’s own healing capabilities. Some people may experience instantaneous relief. Most people, however, need more than one session to return to a balanced state. Regular massage or bodywork can play a huge part in how healthy you’ll be and remain with each passing year. Budgeting time and money for bodywork at consistent intervals is truly an investment in your health. Consider regular massage appointments a necessary part of your preventative health and wellness plan, and work with your therapist to establish a treatment schedule that best suits your needs.
“I’m sick!” or “I have a cold!’ Should I still come for my appointment?
Your health is very important, but that of the therapist and other clients must also be considered. If you have the flu or are contagious for any reason please cancel your appointment. Massage in never indicated if you are running a temperature. In these cases, it is best to relax and rest at home. If you are at the tail end of a cold, you may be ok to receive massage or bodywork. Please call to discuss your specific symptoms and condition.
What is your cancellation/lateness policy?
The courtesy of 24 hours’ cancellation notice is requested. Last minute cancellations or no-shows will be charged 50% of the full service fee. Clients who repeatedly miss appointments will be asked to pre-pay for their sessions.
Please arrive 5-10 min. prior to your scheduled appointment to allow time to use the restroom, change and update the therapist on any important changes since your last session (new medical conditions/medications, pregnancy etc). Late arrivals will only receive the remainder of the scheduled time, but be expected to pay the full session fee. In fairness to clients who arrive on time, a strict schedule must be kept.
Is massage covered by health insurance?
At present, few health insurance plans reimburse for massage therapy. Personal injury protection (PIP) car insurance plans and worker’s compensation plans will sometimes cover massage therapy. Additionally, massage and bodywork services provided with a physician’s prescription are exempt from NJ State Sales Tax. Services may be eligible for reimbursement by Health Savings Accounts and Flexible Spending Accounts. If you wish to submit for reimbursement, receipts can be made available.
Are you held to any professional standards?
Yes, as a nationally certified practitioner, I uphold the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB’s) Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics. As a member of Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals, I also abide by ABMP’s Code of Ethics. Massage therapy is not regulated in every state, so you want to look for the national certification seal.
What to look for in a therapist?
When selecting a massage therapist, you want to make sure that he or she is skilled, knowledgeable and ethical. The easiest way to do ensure this is to look for a certificate from the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB). To be nationally certified a therapist must:
• Demonstrate mastery of core skills and knowledge
• Complete 500+ hours of massage education
• Pass an NCBTMB standardized exam
• Uphold the organization’s Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics
• Fulfill continuing education requirements
Massage therapy is not regulated in every state, so you want to look for the national certification seal.