Question 1

What is massage therapy?

Accepted Answer

Massage therapy is the manipulation of soft tissues of the body including muscles, connective tissues, tendons, ligaments and joints. Massage helps alleviate the discomfort associated with everyday occupational stresses, muscular overuse and many chronic pain conditions.

Question 2

How can massage help me?

Accepted Answer

Massage therapy stretches and loosens muscles. It improves blood flow and the movement of lymph throughout the body. Massage helps increase the flow of oxygen and nutrients to cells and tissues. Best of all, it releases endorphins - the body's natural pain killer - into the brain and nervous system. Plus, it helps improve your mood, giving you that all round feel-good factor!

Question 3

What should I expect during the massage?

Accepted Answer

I may talk to you during the session to understand your needs better. For deep tissue work I will be checking in with you to make sure you are feeling OK.  If you are getting a massage for relaxation, there will be little or no talking. You can decide - talk / no talk - music / no music / different music - deeper / lighter massage. If you are in any way feeling uncomfortable, please make your wishes known to me.

Question 4

Will my massage be painful?

Accepted Answer

Massage may be uncomfortable, but not so painful that you cannot relax. If your muscles feel tight and sore, there may be some discomfort at first.
There needs to be a level of pressure to bring about change in your muscle tissue. Some forms of massage can leave you feeling a bit sore the next day. It depends on the type of therapy and your specific concerns.
If your massage doesn’t feel right or is painful please tell me immediately. You should leave feeling rejuvenated and relaxed!

Question 5

Are you a qualified massage therapist?

Accepted Answer

Yes. I have over 20-years’ experience in massage therapy and I have a Diploma in Therapeutic Massage from the Wellington School of Massage.

Question 6

What will happen at my first massage appointment?

Accepted Answer

On your first visit, I will ask questions about your general health, any specific injuries and whether you are under a doctor's care. You will also need to complete a confidential health history form. I will go over your health history with you to determine your treatment needs and goals. I may also ask you to stand or walk and observe your posture. This is the time for you to ask any questions you have. The entire process takes a few minutes. I will then give you instructions on how to lie on the table (face up/down etc.) I will be out of the room while you are changing. The massage room is clean and private. I like to use music to enhance your relaxation, but you can tell me if you prefer a quiet space.

Question 7

How soon can I expect to see results?

Accepted Answer

You should feel the results as soon as your massage is complete. Yet, some chronic conditions could take four to six weekly sessions of therapeutic massage to resolve. Some long standing issues can take longer.

Question 8

Is massage therapy covered by ACC or medical insurance?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, massage therapy is not covered by ACC. If you have health insurance, call your provider - and find out if your policy covers massage therapy.

Question 9

When should I ask my doctor before receiving a massage?

Accepted Answer

If you have any concerns, check with your doctor to see if massage therapy is appropriate for you.

Question 10

Can I combine massage therapy with other treatments?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Massage works well with acupuncture, chiropractic, osteopathy and physiotherapy. Please tell me about the treatment you are undergoing to ensure you get the most out of your massage.

Question 11

Do I have to take my clothes off?

Accepted Answer

You need to undress for therapy, but you do not need to expose yourself in any way that makes you uncomfortable. I will cover you with a drape/sheet and expose only the area I am working on. I want you to feel comfortable so don't be afraid to express any concerns. It is possible for you to keep yourself clothed.

Question 12

What creams and lotions do you use?

Accepted Answer

If you have any allergies or skin conditions, then please let me know prior to treatment. I use massage wax which contains beeswax, rice bran oil and essential oil blends.

Question 13

If I am exercising, should I have a massage before or after my class?

Accepted Answer

Massage therapy after a class is best. This means your body receives a massage at the best time and it allows you to relax and recover from your class.

Question 14

How often should I have a massage?

Accepted Answer

A one-off massage can help you relax and relive stress. But it’s the cumulative effects of regular massage that will give you the best results. Only you can determine how often you would like to receive a massage. After your massage ask me what to recommend. I’ll help you work out the ideal frequency and length of massage most suited to your specific needs.

Question 15

Do you have any advice about what to expect after a massage?

Accepted Answer

It's normal to experience flu like symptoms particularly after deep massage. It is a result of toxins being released. Drinking plenty of water - two litres is good - will help flush toxins from your body and make you feel better. 
If your muscles feel sore for a day or two after your massage, this is also normal. A warm to hot shower or bath after treatment can also help soothe and calm muscles.
After a couple of days, you should feel things settle and feel more mobile. The more you have massage, the less likely you are to feel these symptoms. 
Equally you may not experience any of these symptoms.

Question 16

What do I do if I need to cancel, reschedule or I’m late?

Accepted Answer

I understand that unanticipated events happen. In my desire to be effective and fair to all clients, 48 hours advance notice is required. If you choose not to show up or forget your appointment - you will be charged for your missed appointment. If you're late, the session may be shortened in order to accommodate others whose appointments follow yours. Regardless of the length of the treatment given, you will be responsible for the full session.

Question 17

Do you have toilets/changing facilities?

Accepted Answer

Yes, I share the clinic with Yoga for the People. You are welcome to use the facilities after your appointment.

Question 18

Is there free parking?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there is 90 minutes free parking in the car park opposite. After 90 minutes you will need to buy a ticket or move your vehicle.

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