S. Byrnes Therapeutic Massage: What to Expect
Sue Byrnes, R.N., C.M.T.
Therapeutic Massage
Phone: 215-342-0003
E-Mail: suecmt1@aol.com
What to Expect
During a Massage or Bodywork Session
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Therapeutic Massage.
If you have more questions please don't hesitate to call.
- Where will my massage or bodywork session take place?
- Who will perform the massage or bodywork?
- Must I be completely undressed?
- Will the practitioner be present when I disrobe?
- Will I be covered during the session?
- What Parts of my body will be massaged?
- Will lubricant be used?
- What will the massage or bodywork feel like?
- Are there different kinds of massage and bodywork?
- How long will the session last?
- What should I do during the massage or bodywork session?
- How will I feel after the massage or bodywork session?
- What are the benefits of massage and bodywork?
- Are there any medical conditions that would make massage or bodywork inadvisable?
Pregnancy Massage:
- How will I receive my massage?
- What techniques will be used?
- Are there times when massage during pregnancy should be avoided?
- What about massage after delivery of my baby?
Your massage/bodywork session will take place in a warm, comfortable, quiet room. Soft music may be played to help you relax. You will lie on a table especial designed for your comfort.
Also available is On-Site Massage (For office, business and corporate customers)
Your session will be conducted by a trained professional who has received proper training, often in a variety of techniques. Some massage and bodywork practitioners are licensed by the state, while others are locally regulated.
Massages performed by a
Certified Massage Therapist
(The staff also consists of a Registered Nurse and a Physical Therapist)
Most massage and bodywork techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed; however, you may decide what amount of clothing you prefer to wear for your own comfort.
The practitioner will leave the room while you undress, relax onto the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet or towel.
You will be properly draped at all times to keep you warm and comfortable. Only the area being worked on will be exposed.
You and the practitioner will discuss the desired outcome of your session. This will determine which parts of your body require massage. A typical full body session will include work on your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck, and shoulders. You will not be touched on or near your genitals (male or female) or breasts (female).
A light oil or lotion may be used to permit your muscles to be worked on without causing excessive friction to the skin. The lubricants used should hydrate the skin and be readily absorbed.
It depends on the techniques used. In a general Swedish massage, your session may start with broad, flowing strokes which will help to calm your nervous system and relax exterior muscle tension. As your body becomes relaxed, pressure will gradually be increased to relax specific areas and relieve areas of muscular tension.
You should communicate immediately if you feel any discomfort so that another approach may be taken. Massage and bodywork are most effective when your body is not resisting.
There are numerous types of massage and bodywork; various techniques utilize different strokes, including basic rubbing strokes, rocking movement, posture and movement reeducation, application of pressure to specific points, etc. Ask the practitioner about the methods he or she uses.
Types of Therapeutic Massage Offered.
Deep Muscle, Swedish, Pregnancy and Instructional Infant Massage
On-Site Massage (For office, business and corporate customers)
The average full-body massage or bodywork session lasts approximately one hour. A half-hour appointment only allows time for a partial massage session, such as neck and shoul-ders, or legs and feet. Many people prefer a one to two hour session for optimal relaxation. Always allow relaxation time prior to and after the session. hot tubs, steam baths, and saunas can assist in the relaxation process.
Rates/Pricing/Time
Make yourself comfortable. The practitioner will either gently move you or tell you what is needed throughout the session (such as lifting your arm). Many people just close their eyes and completely relax. Others like to talk during their massage or bodywork. Feel free to ask the practitioner questions about massage and bodywork in general or about the particular technique you are receiving.
Most people feel very relaxed. Some experience freedom from long-term aches and pains developed from tension or repetitive activity. After an initial period of feeling slowed down, people often experience increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity which can last for days.
Massage or bodywork can help release chronic muscular tension and pain, improve circulation, increase joint flexibility, reduce mental and physical fatigue and stress, promote faster healing of injured muscular tissue, improve posture, and reduce blood pressure.
Before you begin your session, the practitioner will ask some general health questions. It is very important that you inform the practitioner of any health problems or medications you are taking. If you are under a doctor's care, it is strongly advised that you receive a written recommendation for massage or bodywork prior to any session. Many qualified massage and bodywork practitioners will require a recommendation.
Pregnancy Massage:
When receiving pregnancy massage, you are positioned on your side to give the therapist access to your back, or in a semi-reclining position for massage on the front of your body. Your body will be supported with pillows or special cushions. Some therapists may have pillows specifically designed for pregnant women, including a "breakaway tummy" to support the pelvic area while lying on your stomach. You will be properly draped while the therapist is working, except for the area being massaged.
Many pregnancy massage specialists integrate a variety of techniques into their work. Depending upon where you are in the pregnancy, the therapist may utilize reflexology, Swedish massage, or very light shiatsu.
Women with normal, low-risk pregnancies can benefit greatly from massage by a trained pregnancy massage therapist. However, women in high-risk pregnancies should consult with their doctor or midwife before beginning a massage therapy program. If at any time during the massage you experience discomfort, tell the therapist immediately.
Massage during the weeks after delivery helps to restore muscle tone in the abdomen and reposition the pelvis.
And remember, touch is a very important part of bonding with your baby. Ask about receiving instruction in massaging your baby.
We do offer infant massage.
S. Byrnes Therapeutic Massage: What to Expect
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