Q & A

Before a Massage – contra-indications

Therapist will do a full consultation and ask health questions. 

Cautions:

  • Infectious skin disease, rash, or open wounds

  • Recent surgery

  • Cancer

  • Immediately after chemotherapy or radiation, unless recommended by your doctor

  • Heart condition

  • People prone to blood clots. There is a risk of blood clots being dislodged. If you have heart disease, check with your doctor before having a massage

  • Pregnancy Massage is perfectly safe for Mum and Baby at any stage but as a general rule from the second Trimester. Pregnant women should check with their doctor first if they are considering getting a massage. Massage in pregnant women should be done by massage therapists who are certified in pregnancy massage.

  • Massage should not be done directly over bruises, inflamed skin, unhealed wounds, tumours, abdominal hernia, or areas of recent fractures.

  • Inform therapist of any medications that you are taken

  • Inform therapist of any medical conditions that are being treated or monitored by a doctor

In addition

  • Do not eat a heavy meal before the massage

  • Do not drink alcohol

  • If this is your first visit – best to arrive ten minutes before either to complete any necessary forms or otherwise five minutes before so you have time to relax before treatment.

After Massage Treatment – Contra-actions

  • You may want someone to pick you up if you are at a clinic

  • Drink lots of water/herbal teas to increase elimination

  • Sometimes client may get a headache but this can be common but should subside

  • If you have any concerns speak to Therapist

 

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Most Frequently Asked Questions

Where will my massage or bodywork session take place? 

The massage equipment used will either be a couch, a massage chair or a relaxa chair. This will take place usually at home, office, clinic or therapist practice or festival or event.


Must I be completely undressed? 

Treatments can be clothed and undressed. The massage can be adapted to suit client requirements and you can discuss what type of treatment you would prefer with therapist.  If you are having a massage that requires you to undress you will only be asked to remove the layer/s that are necessary to be able to access the body part to be massaged.
 

Will the Masseur/Therapist be present when I disrobe? 

The therapist will leave the room while you undress, relax onto the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet or towel.


Will I be covered during the session? 

Yes you will be draped appropriately at all times to keep you warm and comfortable. Only the body area being worked on will be exposed. 


What parts of my body will be massaged? 

Generally:

Chair Massage will include work on your back, arms, hands, neck and shoulders.

A Full-body session will include work on your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck, and shoulders. 
 

Are there different kinds of massage and bodywork? 

There are various techniques used and different strokes, including:

Basic kneading, rocking, stretches tapoment, variations of pressure to specific points, and more. The therapist will warm up muscle before using any deeper types of strokes or movements.  The hands, thumbs, elbows, forearm can all be used to apply pressure within the massage treatment.  A long with different base oils, creams, essential oils, stones and massage equipment.  We can discuss which methods may be most appropriate for you. 


What should I do during the massage or bodywork session?

Prior to the massage the therapist will explain and any questions about the technique that will be used during the upcoming session.  Whilst the massage is being performed the therapist will check with you that you are comfortable during the treatment.  The practitioner will inform you of any changes to be made ie if they need to move you or if they need to lift a part of your body (for example lift an arm).  Most clients will just close their eyes and relax completely.  You will be asked if you need more or less pressure during the massage.  There is an opportunity at the end of session to ask the therapist further about the massage whereby you will be asked for feedback.


How will I feel after the massage or bodywork session? 

Most feel very relaxed

Some relief from long-term aches and pains

Eased tension and repetitive strain

Feeling slowed down

Often experience increased energy

Client can feel a heightened awareness which can last for a few days. 

After your massage toxins are released and it is always recommended you drink plenty of water following your massage. 
 

What are the benefits of massage and bodywork? 

Massage and bodywork can ease muscular aches and pains

Relief tension and soreness in muscles

Improve circulation

Increase flexibility

Alleviate physical and mental fatigue

Reduce Stress

Promote faster healing of injured muscular tissue

Improve posture

Help to aid better sleep

Improve concentration

Reduce anxiety, stress and overall create a sense of well-being


Are there any medical conditions that would make massage or bodywork inadvisable? 

Yes, the therapist will go through with you a consultation form and ask you questions about your general health. It is very important that you inform the practitioner of any health problems or medications you are taking or about any recent operations. Plus if you are under a doctor's care, it is strongly advised that you receive a written recommendation for massage or bodywork prior to any session.  Depending on the condition, approval from your doctor may be required.  Please talk to therapist who can provide you with a standard letter that you can hand to your GP and get them to sign.