Massage Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ’s About Massage:

Will my insurance cover massage?

The services of a bodywork professional may be covered by health insurance when prescribed by a chiropractor. Please note that if your insurance does not cover it, discounted cash prices are available should you choose to supplement your chiropractic care with massage.

Should massage hurt?

No, your massage should not be painful. It is a therapeutic massage and some of the work may be an uncomfortable “hurts so good”, but it should not go into the range of being painful. Your massage therapist is there to help you, communicate to them if you are feeling pain during your session.

What should I wear during my session?

Most massage and bodywork techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed; however, it is entirely up to you what you want to wear. You should undress to your level of comfort. You will be properly draped during the entire session, covered by both sheet and blanket. Only the area being worked on will be undraped ensuring your modesty no matter what level you choose to undress too.

Will the massage therapist be in the room while I disrobe?

No, they will take you in the room to do a private intake to access where you need the work focused on but will leave before you disrobe. The therapist will knock on the door to ensure that you securely between the sheets before reentering the room.

What body parts will be massaged?

You and your therapist will discuss this before your session. A typical full body massage consists of work done in the following areas: scalp, neck, back, arms, hands, legs, and feet. If you do not wish to have some of these areas worked, please discuss that with your practitioner before your session. If you have chosen a shorter time frame for your session only one or two areas will be chosen for more focused work. Again, we want you to be as comfortable as possible, so please communicate your goals for the session with your practitioner.

How long will the session last?

That depends on what session you signed up for. Most full-body massages are 60 minutes long, with 30 and 45-minute sessions available for focus work on 1 to 2 areas (most common being back and neck). With that being said, if you have a lot going on a 60-minute session may be necessary to thoroughly work on the areas you are having trouble with. If you have questions as to which session you should sign up for, please contact our office and we will discuss your needs and recommend a session time.

What should I do during my session?

During the massage, make yourself comfortable. The practitioner 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. If you have any questions regarding the session or about the particular technique you are receiving, feel free to ask your therapist.

How will I feel after my session?

It varies person to person, but generally, people feel looser and more relaxed. You may experience some soreness akin to that after a good workout. The soreness usually lasts less than 48 hours.

Who Should not get a massage:

While massage is therapeutic and promote healing, you should not receive massage if you have the following:

Do not get a massage during the first 3 months of pregnancy.

This is because during the first trimester you are at a higher risk for miscarriage. After 3 months massage is very good to relieve sore muscles and help calm and relax the mother to be. The massage session will be altered due to the pregnancy for comfort and safety reasons.

Do not get a massage if you have a fever or high temperature.

The body is fighting off toxins and massage would increase the toxins being fought and make symptoms worse.

Do not get a massage if you have blood clots.

Blood clots are also a contraindication as massage may move the blood clot and cause a heart attack or stroke.

Do not get a massage if you have varicose veins, the area affected should not be massaged.

This is because massage increases blood flow and will flood the overworked capillaries which can cause coagulation and possibly affect the blood flow to the heart. If the varicose veins are limited to the legs than an upper body massage is perfectly safe.

Do not get a massage if you have an infectious skin disease.

Infectious skin disease is contraindicated as it can irritate the skin further and be passed to the practitioner. This includes but is not limited to herpes, fungal infections, lymphangitis, viral infections and bacterial infections.

Do not get a massage if you have cancer you should not receive a

massage.

Massage moves lymphatic fluid and can spread cancer from one area to another.

Do not get a massage if you have had a cold or flu in the last 48 hours.

Massage moves lymphatic fluid throughout the body and can make you sicker & leave you feeling worse. It is much more beneficial to wait until you are past the illness.