I get the same questions about massage therapy, so I thought I would answer a couple of them for you here. (This is especially for those that do not ask….)
1) Why the health questions and forms??
Now this is important for you to understand because we are not just being nosey for G.P.
Health concerns do exist that can contradict the positive outcomes of massage therapy (meaning a massage may worsen your condition). Pregnancy, high blood pressure and recent surgeries are a few well-known concerns. We will also ask about recent changes in health, accidents, falls, concussions, easy bruising, allergies and varicose veins–all which can be complicated, cause flair-ups, or worsened if too much pressure, the wrong product, or heat is applied during your session. Please don’t leave anything out on your form! We want to increase your health, that’s why we do what we do.
2) Do I have to get naked??
Each state has its guidelines on what can be said to a client here, and some counties may even have rules about what you HAVE to keep on. However, the general rule of thumb is that you can wear whatever works for you! I tell my clients to undress to their level of comfort. And yes, some people do stay completely dressed. As long as you are on the table, I’m happy to work on you!! No worries! We want you to feel as comfortable, relaxed and safe as possible.
3) What will you see??
Again… I need you comfy! What is exposed, is just the areas that are being worked on. Nothing more or less. If its your leg, that’s all I am going to uncover. We tuck you in (called draping) so that you stay warm covered and not exposed.
4) Can you work on my butt??
Yes we can. And because that is one of those sensitive areas, we will do draping, minimal exposure, and/or can work through the covers! Lots of issues stem from overly tight glutes, flexers and fascia that cross over or are attached in that area.
5) Do you have to work on my feet, face, neck, scalp. (insert your area of concern here).
Firstly… the extremely private areas are out-of-bounds, so, no, we don’t touch them. Secondly… If you are overly ticklish ( I know someone who got a finger broken being kicked!) or hyper sensitive to touch, or in general DONT like, say your feet touched.. Please let us know! As much as I love to give a good foot rub, if it disturbs you out, I would much rather spend that time somewhere else! 🙂
6) Can I have different pressure? OFCOURSE!! Even if you are signed up for one style of massage and it’s not working. You asked for Swedish but more pressure sounds good! Or as you are getting worked on and it’s too much… Please let your practitioner know!! Don’t suffer through something that isn’t working. Hot stones.. sounded good… hate it! Tell us. The more we know about what you are feeling, not feeling, comfortable with, the better the session is for you.
And in the end… better sessions for you are the goal.. Right? That’s my blurb for the day! Now .. STAY CALM & GET A MASSAGE!!