What Should I expect with Massage Therapy and Body Work?
Massage Therapy and Bodywork FAQ's.
Increasing numbers of people across all segments of the population and a vast range of age demographics, seek out massage therapists to aid in natural pain cycle management, greater relaxation, relieve symptoms of distress, ultimately allowing innate to aid in healing their bodies, minds, and spirits from inside out.
Here are some groups who commonly utilize massage therapy & bodywork:
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Athletes & Explorers of all levels
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Healthy Lifestyle Maintainers
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Those with High Stress, Anxiety, Depression
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Those seeking Natural Chronic Pain Management
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Physical Therapy, Chiropractic and Occupational Therapy Patients
* Adding a winning combination for Injury/Trauma or Post Surgical Recovery
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Expecting Mothers Pre and Post Gestation
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Musicians, Performing Artists, and Artists of all kinds
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Physically High Demanding Career Professionals
Massage therapists help their clients recover from muscle fatigue, injury, gain flexibility, and improve performance. Though people today have unprecedented access to massage therapy, some still haven’t tried it yet because it’s new and unfamiliar to them. If you’re thinking about booking your first massage therapy session, you probably have a lot of questions. If you’re unsure about the benefits of massage, the process, or how it can help you, read on. Here, we answer your questions in detail and help you gain the knowledge and confidence you need to contact a massage therapist and enjoy your first experience.
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Q: How Much Does Massage Therapy Cost?
A: According to the American Massage Therapy Association AMTA, the average rate for an hour of massage therapy is about $65. This price will depend on a variety of factors, such as your location, the specific expertise, years of experience and the type of modality offered by the practitioner.
In some cases, your health insurance provider may cover all or part of the cost of your massage session. If you plan to use insurance to cover the cost of your massage, confirm with the massage therapist that they accept your insurance when you schedule your first appointment.
(NOTE I DO NOT WORK WITH INSURANCE OF ANY KIND.)
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Q: Will I Be Naked During My Massage?
A: No matter what type of massage you receive, you’re in charge of how much you disrobe during your massage therapy session. Keep in mind this can range from completely disrobed, to some undergarments, to light comfortable layer of clothing, every massage will work with your decision. Note that for optimal ease of relaxation you will be one hundred percent safe and secure if you choose to completely disrobe this option also allows for maximum efficiency to address muscle issues. Talk with your practitioner before your massage and specify the areas of your body on which you want them to work—and which to avoid. Your massage therapist will only expose the parts of your body they’re working on—never your breasts or genitals. If you feel uncomfortable with your massage, you can pause or stop it at any time. Before your massage, your therapist will walk you through how to properly utilize the table. Additionally, it should be noted that not all massage and bodywork techniques require the client to undress.
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Q: What’s the Difference Between Massage Therapy and Bodywork Therapy?
A: Both massage and bodywork therapists manipulate their clients’ soft tissues to promote and maintain health. Though these practices have a great deal in common, bodyworkers tend to focus on pain relief and restoring body function. Massage therapists can also help clients meet these goals but place a greater emphasis on relaxation, stress reduction, and overall well-being.
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Q: Is It Hard to Find a Massage Therapist I Can Trust?
A: According to the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards, nearly 300,000 people in the United States study massage therapy and work as massage therapists. State agencies regulate and license massage therapists to ensure professionalism, privacy, and safety. Many states require therapists to take the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination. Determine your state’s licensing requirements and ask your massage therapist for their credentials to increase your trust in their services.
I am Nationally and State Licensed and have been since 2005. I have also been a member of AMTA since 2007 and uphold to a high level of ethical and moral standards.
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Q: Does My Health Insurance Cover Massage Therapy?
I do not work with any insurance companies or any kind. I am by appointment only as a private practice. Thank you.
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Q: What Are the Benefits of Massage Therapy?
A: People get massages for many reasons:
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Relaxation
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Injury/Surgery Recovery
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Workout Recovery
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Pain reduction
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Stress, Anxiety, Depression Relief
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Physical therapy
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Migraine, Headaches of all status, Sinus, Jaw Tension/TMJ mitigation.
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Digestive System Issues and Disfunction
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Fibromyalgia relief
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Insomnia support
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Heart disease, diabetes, and cancer symptom reduction
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General Pain and Discomfort
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Wellness and Self Care Regiment.
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Many More what's calling you to the table?
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Q: Can I File a Complaint against a Massage Therapist?
A: You can file a complaint with your state licensing entity only if you have experienced legal or ethical misconduct during a massage session. Each state board has its own complaint-handling procedures; be sure to ask for details and necessary documentation from your therapist, you must notify the practitioner. Waived Liabilities are excluded.
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Q: When Should I Avoid Massage Therapy?
A: Massage therapists offer non-invasive, non-narcotic treatments for many types of injuries, pain, and over all well being. However, massage isn’t for everyone. People with high blood pressure, deep-vein thrombosis, and certain skin conditions should check with a doctor before getting a massage. If you have a fever, feel dizzy, or have recently been in an accident, you may want to postpone your massage appointment. If you have any conditions you are currently seeking medical help with you must consult your doctor handling the case for permission to get massage. In addition you should avoid massage if you are sick/contagious , have a fever, sunburned, concussion, high risk pregnancy, certain muscular degenerative disorders should get doctors permission, those with frail thin skin, those with contagious skin disorders, certain weight or dietary disorder should seek medical permissions. When in doubt talk with your therapist and consult your doctor always best to air on the side of caution.
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Q: What Kind of Training Does It Take to Be a Massage Therapist?
A: At the 300 U.S. massage therapy schools, aspiring practitioners typically get 600-700 hours of training. Almost all massage therapists take continuing education classes, averaging 20 hours per year. Ask your practitioner about their educational experiences, practical training, and ongoing professional development. I would highly recommend always seeing a LICENSED PROFESSIONAL for your own peace of mind. Keep in mind there are all types of therapist and it may take a little while to find the right fit for you.
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Q: What If I Don’t Want a Massage Therapist to Work on a Certain Part of My Body?
A: Before your massage, let your therapist know which parts of your body you want them to avoid. For example, many clients aren’t comfortable with having their abdominal area massaged. Your massage therapist will know how to avoid any sensitive areas you identify and still give you a therapeutic experience.
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Q: Is It Okay to Talk During a Massage Session?
A: You should always feel free to express any discomfort when undergoing a massage. However, avoid intense chatting with your massage therapist during your session; this can lead to increased muscular tension and limit the effectiveness of your massage experience. Though this is your time so I will respect your choice of conversation based on each time you come to see me. The amount of communication you should engage in during your massage depends on your goals for the session. If you want a relaxing massage, talk as little as necessary and let your mind and body enter a meditative state. You can even practice mindful breathing, which lowers muscular tension and increases the benefits of your massage. On the other hand, if you’ve asked your massage therapist to use increased pressure and deep-tissue techniques to help you recover from an injury, communication is key. Be sure to give your practitioner regular feedback on the amount of pressure you need and which specific areas feel painful or tight.
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Q: What Happens If I Fall Asleep during My Massage?
A: It’s quite common for people to fall asleep during relaxing massages. Massage therapists typically take this as a compliment and a sign that they’re providing maximum relaxation to their clients. Enjoy your massage experience and don’t expect yourself to stay awake and alert at all times. Many clients allow their bodies and minds to “reset” in deeply relaxing states. Perfectly normal and no judgment ever, I will never admit if snoring happens... :)
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Q: What If My Stomach Growls During a Massage—or Worse?
A: Massage therapists create “judgment-free zones” with their clients and understand that massages can sometimes lead to clients making strange noises, passing gas, or even have deeply emotional experiences. If you feel the need to laugh, cry, or even tremble, your practitioner will understand and may ask you if you want to continue the massage or take a break.
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Q: Can I Stop a Massage If I Feel Uncomfortable?
A: Absolutely! You are always in control of your massage therapy session. Feel free to ask your practitioner to pause or stop your massage if you’re uncomfortable with any aspect of this treatment.
Remember, by discussing potential issues with your therapist before they arise, you can help ensure a positive experience. Most practitioners interview their clients when they arrive to find out about their health histories and needs. Take some time to share any and all concerns you have, including any shyness about your body, worries about privacy and procedure, and—of course—your goals for the session.
With a little honest communication, you can enjoy a wonderful first massage and set the stage for many more to come!
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References:
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2014 Massage Therapy Industry Fact Sheet. (2014). Retrieved from http://ipsb.edu/downloads/AMTA_Fact_Sheet.pdf
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Are there times when I shouldn’t have a massage? (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/explore-healing-practices/massage-therapy/are-there-times-when-i-shouldnt-have-massage
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Braun, M., & Simonson, S. (2014). Introduction to massage therapy (3rd Ed.). Philadelphia: Lippencott, Williams, and Wilkins.
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Consumer complaints. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.fsmtb.org/consumer-information/consumer-complaints/
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Consumer information. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.fsmtb.org/consumer-information
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Customer resources. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.bmbt.org/pages/Consumer_Resources.html
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Industry fact sheet. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.amtamassage.org/infocenter/economic_industry-fact-sheet.html
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Massage therapy. (n.d.) Retrieved from http://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/massage-therapy/home/ovc-20170282
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Milano, S. (2014). Certified massage therapists practice ancient healing art, gaining more respect. The Chicago Tribune. Retrieved from http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2014-02-28/classified/sns-201402281430–tms–careercarer-c20140228-20140228_1_massage-therapy-massage-techniques-healing
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Renter, E. (2015). Does your health insurance cover alternative medicine? U.S. News and World Report. Retrieved from http://health.usnews.com/health-news/health-insurance/articles/2015/03/09/does-your-health-insurance-cover-alternative-medicine
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What can I expect in a first massage therapy visit? (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/explore-healing-practices/massage-therapy/what-can-i-expect-first-massage-theraphy-visit
