Your massage therapist will require you to fill out a health history form. Afterward the therapist will begin by asking you general questions to establish what areas you would like worked on, if there are any conditions needing to be addressed, and to determine what massage treatment is appropriate for you. Your massage therapist may perform certain assessments and testing to evaluate your condition and to see if you have any presenting complaints.
It is also important to list any allergies so the therapist is aware if a different oil or lotion is to be used during the session. Please list all health concerns and medications so the therapist can adapt the session to your specific needs without doing any harm.
Your therapist will leave the room to prepare for your massage, and you will be instructed to remove your clothing as necessary and get on the massage table. Your modesty will be protected at all times. As your therapist works, they will uncover body parts to be massaged, never working any private areas.
Make yourself comfortable. If your therapist wants you to adjust your position, your therapist will either move you or will ask you to move what is needed. Otherwise, change your position anytime to make yourself more comfortable. Many people close their eyes and relax completely during a session; others prefer to talk. It’s up to you. It is your massage and whatever feels natural to you is the best way to relax. Do not hesitate to ask questions at any time.
New clients should arrive 10 minutes prior to their massage to fill out paperwork and meet with their therapist prior to their treatment. This information will help us to customise your session. Returning clients should arrive 5 minutes prior to their session.
Honestly, it’s hard to say. Every person is unique and every condition is unique to each person. It may take one session or it may take several.
“Something is better than nothing.” What does that mean? Well, it varies from person to person. If you are just looking for some occasional relaxation, then a session every 3-6 weeks may be fine for you. However, if you are looking to address a specific condition, then it is recommended to go more frequently at first and then slowly taper down to a maintenance schedule.
Sometimes more frequent one hour sessions can be effective until your goals are met and a maintenance schedule is in place. Frequency of sessions should be discussed with your massage therapist after your treatment when he has a better hands-on understanding of your particular muscular issues.
Most people feel very relaxed. Some experience a significant decrease or freedom from long-term aches and pains. Many feel a little slowed down for a short period and then notice an increase of energy, heightened awareness and increased productivity which can last for days.
If you received a deep massage, you may be slightly sore the next day - much like a good workout at the gym. Sometimes a hot shower or a soak in the bath can ease this soreness. After your session, you should increase your water intake. Just a glass or two more than normal is usually fine. This helps keep your body’s tissues hydrated and healthy.
Relief of aches and pains, increased range of motion, and a feeling of lightness are also often results of a massage. You may feel a bit sleepy or fuzzy for a few minutes after the massage, so it’s a good idea to plan some relaxation time after your treatment. Usually, people feel energized after some relaxation time, and this can last for days. Your therapist will welcome any discussion or concerns you have regarding how you will feel after your treatment. Many people feel very relaxed and content after a massage.
Please, please, please – speak up! Your massage therapist does not want to hurt you! You will not offend your therapist or hurt their feelings.
Remember, this is YOUR time and your session. Let your therapist know if the amount of pressure is too much or not strong enough. If there is an area that is particularly tender, let them know. If you have an area you’d like them to focus on, tell them before your session begins so they can plan extra time on that area.
Massage pressure is specifically tailored to your body. We never massage so deeply that you feel the need to hold your breath, swear or tense your body. We will ask you for feedback about the pressure during the massage. At times there may be a comfortable discomfort but should never be a painful discomfort. Please be honest.
You are encouraged to openly communicate with the therapist about your preferences and comfort. If anything needs to be adjusted, or if we are almost (but not quite) getting the right spot, just speak up and let us know right away.
However, it is a myth that massage therapy needs to hurt in order to be effective. Some of the most effective techniques involve very light, gentle touch. Often, too much pressure can cause muscles to tighten further, and detract from the effectiveness of your treatment.
You do not need to have a referral to see your therapist. The only time you may need a referral from your doctor would be if you are a workcover or motor accident client. Please advise therapist if this is the case.
Yes remedial massage is covered. However you may need to call your insurance company to see if you have the correct extras on your policy. We also have HICAPS where you can claim on the spot.
Credit card or cash. We also have Eftpos facilities for your covenience.
Yes. Your massage therapist is fully accredited and is a member of the Massage & Myotherapy Australia, the governing body for remedial massage therapists in Australia.
You will be reminded to drink lots of water during the next 24 hours, because massage moves some of the muscle metabolic by-products into circulation faster than usual, and the water will help to flush your system. You may have been suggested to do some stretches or specific exercises, this will be explained to you.
This is a question we get asked all the time and it is really dependant on the injury you have, your personal pain threshold and also whether or not you have had treatment before.
The work we do can be quite firm and deep and therefore some people may feel sore for the next day or two. This is perfectly normal and should be experienced like muscle soreness from the gym. If you increased your exercise at the gym or went for a really long walk you would expect to be sore for the next day or two. As we are working the soft tissues of the body, thereby creating changes in them, this will have a lasting effect. If you do feel pain afterwards, it will generally only be pain from the treatment itself and not the pain from your injury.
The average full-body massage treatment lasts approximately one hour. A half-hour appointment only allows time for a partial massage session, such as neck and shoulders, back or legs. Many people prefer a 60 minute session for optimal relaxation. Always allow relaxation time prior to and after the session.
Honestly, it's hard to say. Every person is unique and every condition is unique to each person. It may take one session or it may take several. You and your therapist will be able to talk more specifically about this after your first session after having a chance to evaluate your body's tissues.
Be sure to let your massage therapist know if you have:
