Displaying items by tag: massage therapy appointment

Tuesday, 02 January 2018 15:13

Massage Therapy Appointment FAQs Answered

Going to your first massage therapy appointment can be a nerve-wracking experience when you don't know what to expect. There are many questions that might be running through your mind:

“What do I wear?”

“What if I fall asleep?”

“What if I don't like it?”

Massage therapy is a great addition to any wellness routine, so we're here to tell you: there's nothing to fear! We're answering some of the most commonly asked questions about what happens at a massage therapy appointment. And, if this doesn't answer all of your questions, you can also check out our recent post about what to expect during your first massage at Wayfare Wellness.

There is no question too silly or awkward to keep you from enjoying the benefits of therapeutic massage.

Massage Therapy Appointment FAQ

When Is The Best Time To Schedule A Massage?

There is no perfect time to schedule a massage therapy appointment. If you have a really stressful week ahead of you, scheduling an hour of solitude and relaxation at the end of the chaos can help you recover more quickly. If you prefer the opposite, a massage to help you prepare for a busy week, that works, too! It's all about what makes the most sense for you and your schedule. While there is no magic answer to when to schedule your massage therapy appointment to maximize the effects, there are somethings you can do before and after to maintain the relaxed state.

  • DO get your workout in before your scheduled massage.

  • DON'T eat a big meal right before a massage.

  • DO drink your last cup of coffee or caffeinated drink at least an hour before your massage therapy appointment.

Should I Shower Before Or After My Massage?

Showering before your massage is always appreciated – especially if you squeezed in your daily workout before your appointment. Not only are you fresh and clean for your massage therapist, but the warm water from the shower helps loosen your muscles for the maximum effect.

Therapeutic massage often utilizes a lotion or oil that can leave a mild residue on the skin, so you may want to rinse off following your massage, as well.

Don't forget that the massage therapist will be working in close proximity to your body, so hold back on the perfume or cologne until after your massage therapy appointment is over.

What Do I Wear?

During a therapeutic massage, you will lay on a massage table that has clean sheets that will be draped over your body, excluding the area that's being treated at that specific moment. Massage therapists learn specific draping techniques that are designed to help clients feel comfortable and protected. That being said, you can wear as much or as little clothing as you are comfortable with. Most therapists will treat clothed areas as no-treatment zones. If you prefer to remain fully clothed, that's perfectly okay. Some massage techniques, such as shiatsu, are done without any kind of disrobing.

My ____________ Isn't Normal.

As a massage therapist, it is our job to treat your body, not judge it. We see all shapes and sizes and there is no such thing as normal! You don't have to worry about those 10 pounds you can't seem to lose or that you didn't get a chance to shave your legs when you come into your massage therapy appointment.

During Your Massage Therapy Appointment

Do I Have To Make Conversation?

If talking helps you relax, then, by all means, chatter away. We're happy to talk about whatever you'd like, but we are also just as happy to stay quiet and let you relax to soothing music. We will follow your lead.

We do encourage you to communicate with us throughout your appointment. We may ask you how the pressure feels at certain intervals and you can be honest, if it's too much or not enough, we want to know so we can adjust and help you get the most out of your massage.

Will It Hurt?

Some massage therapy techniques utilize more pressure than others. Particularly, during deep tissue and sports massage therapy appointments, you may experience slight discomfort as your therapist works through a the tension in your body. Keep the lines of communication open, you should never be in pain during a massage.

If you're nervous about how it might feel, you might be more comfortable trying a more gentle technique, such as cranial-sacral or swedish massage, to start with.

What If I...

These types of questions are probably the most wondered and least asked questions when it comes to a massage therapy appointment.

We understand that bodily functions happen. It's the circle of life and we roll with it and will continue with your treatment.

If you have to go to the bathroom, let us know. Many massage therapy offices will have a robe that you can wear to run out to the restroom and come back.

If you fall asleep, we will be flattered. Our goal is to help you feel comfortable and relaxed during your massage therapy appointment, so if you doze off, we've succeeded.

Anything else you can think of that might happen in a massage therapy appointment, we've probably experienced at least once or twice. Your massage therapist is a professional and they are there to treat your mind and body to help you feel your best.

Let us pamper you in downtown Denver. Book your first massage therapy appointment today!

Published in Massage