WHAT A TYPICAL MASSAGE TREATMENT IS LIKE....

A typical massage treatment is 40 to 90 minutes long. It begins with consultation and review of symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle. You will be asked to disrobe (most people keep their underwear on) while the therapist is out of the room, and lie face down on a special massage table. There is a sheet or towel draped over you at all times, so only the part of the body being treated at any one time is uncovered. Massage therapists use a light oil or cream on the skin.

Will it be uncomfortable?
It shouldn't be uncomfortable. Occasionally there is mild aching when the therapist applies pressure over "knots" and other areas of muscle tension. If the pressure is too strong for you, let the therapist know.

One type of massage, called deep tissue massage, uses more direct pressure and friction on muscles, especially those in the low back, between the shoulder blades, and around the neck. Clients usually feel sore after these treatments.

How will I feel after?
Most people feel calm and relaxed after a treatment. Occasionally, people experience mild temporary aching for a day.

Should I talk to the massage therapist during the treatment?
Your massage therapist may ask you questions related to your condition during your treatment. If you have any additional information you forgot to mention during the consultation, don't hesitate to bring it up. Don't feel like you have to make conversation during your treatment.

"I fell asleep during my massage!"
Don't be embarassed - it happens to many people. In fact, being in such as state of relaxation during the massage enhances the therapeutic effects.

What is Massage Therapy?

Massage is one of the oldest, simplest forms of therapy and is a system of stroking, pressing and kneading different areas of the body to relieve pain, relax, stimulate, and tone the body. Massage does much more than create a pleasant sensation on the skin, it also works on the soft tissues (the muscles, tendons, and ligaments) to improve muscle tone. Although it largely affects those muscles just under the skin, its benefits may also reach the deeper layers of muscle and possibly even the organs themselves. Massage also stimulates blood circulation and assists the lymphatic system (which runs parallel to the circulatory system), improving the elimination of waste throughout the body.

Massage therapy, also known as Swedish massage, is the most common form of massage therapy in the United States. It uses kneading, stroking, friction, and hacking movements on the skin, working the muscles beneath.

Massage therapy stimulates circulation by bringing oxygen and other nutrients to body tissues. It relieves muscle tension and pain, increases flexibility and mobility, and helps clear waste, such as lactic acid, which reduces pain and stiffness in muscles and joints.

Massage therapy also relieves stress. It helps the body's stress response by lowering levels of stress hormones such as cortisol.