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For those who experience their first massage, most wonder why they waited so long getting one. The effects vary according to the modality chosen. Massage helps in reducing stress and anxiety as well as increasing blood circulation and lymph function. A lot of people complain of muscle and joint soreness. This is also improved with massage techniques that stimulate blood flow and improve function and action of various muscle groups. The most common ailments improved by massage are: arthritis, back pain, carpel tunnel syndrome, headaches, TMJ, bronchitis, depression, insomnia, myofascial pain, sports, injuries, and scar tissue reduction.
Determining what type of massage is best for you is achieved by communicating with your massage therapist common areas of restriction or soreness. On your initial visit, your health history and current ailments will be reviewed as well as what your health goals are for the future. Look for an office that provides a secure, quiet, and private room where you can undress to your own comfort level. The goal is for you to have an enjoyable, therapeutic and relaxing massage.
If an individual has a pulled muscle, or recent injury like whiplash, it will be uncomfortable. The therapist will and should do everything possible to decrease the level of pain you are experiencing. On a scale of 1-10 with ten being the worst pain, you might want to consider seeing a primary care professional before getting a massage when your pain level is above a six. Ask your primary care professional if you would be a candidate for massage, especially if you must drive, operate machinery, or concentrate at your work place and would have difficulty doing your job while on pain killers or muscle relaxants.
A skilled therapist will be able to show you self-help techniques and refer you to books that coach individuals on the benefits of trigger point release (with instructions). Holly is known for her empathetic approach in assisting her clients- improving function and offering relief that lasts long after the session. There are many therapeutic products as well that can offer relief if you have to wait to get in for a doctor visit. Always ask a medical professional for advice before taking OTC medicine or beginning a new exercise program. Therapists cannot diagnose. Massage therapists provide therapy for the basic purpose of relaxation and relief of muscular tension. You should always let a therapist know if you are experiencing any pain during your session and the pressure being applied should be adjusted accordingly. It does you no good if you are tensing up because the pressure is too deep. Massage and bodywork should not be construed as a substitute for medical examination, diagnosis or treatment and that you should see a physician, chiropractor or other qualified medical specialist for any mental or physical ailment which you are aware. Massage therapist and bodyworkers do not perform spinal or skeletal adjustments, diagnose, prescribe or treat any physical or mental illness. Discussing any such things during your session should not be construed as such . You have the right to ask your massage therapist if she or he is covered by insurance. Most professional therapist are covered. The risk of being injured physically is minimal. If at anytime you are uncomfortable during a massage for any reason, you have the right to end the session and so does the therapist.
Keep appointments and pay at the time of your visit. If is your responsibility to bring proper forms of payment. Ask your therapist what they prefer, some don’t accept credit cards due to the high costs associated with merchant services. If you are late for your appointment, your therapist has every right to stay on their schedule. If you show up early for your appointment, your therapist might be busy returning calls, filing paperwork and eating lunch. Use your early arrival to your advantage, get something to drink and relax a few minutes before going into the treatment room. Please be kind and allow at least a 24-hour cancellation notice. Therapist will only schedule the number of massages they can physically perform in a given day. A lost appointment is lost income. A therapist deserves a chance to call another client and get them in as soon as an opening becomes available. Don’t be surprised if a therapist crosses you off the client list if you don’t notify them for a missed appointment in advance. If you are sick or have a contagious condition, by all means, cancel your appointment. The best massage is one where the client can relax enough so they don’t talk about work, family, or friends. This is not a hair appointment with casual conversation but an opportunity to surrender to a very relaxing experience that can have scientifically proven benefits. |