Massage therapists manipulate clients' soft tissues and joints to treat injuries and promote general wellness. They may use their hands, fingers, forearms, elbows, feet as well as tools during the session. Massage therapists may use lotions and oils and massage tables or chairs when treating a client.

Massage therapy can help with a variety of conditions and is safe and effective for people of all ages: 

• Pain relief: Massage can help relieve chronic pain, including headaches, neck and back pain, and pain from injuries. 

• Stress reduction: Massage can help reduce stress and anxiety, and improve mood. 

• Improved sleep: Massage can help with sleep disorders and insomnia. 

• Improved immune function: Massage can help the body produce more white blood cells to fight illness. 

• Improved circulation: Massage can improve circulation and increase joint range of motion. 

• Improved recovery: Massage can help with recovery from soft tissue injuries. 

• Improved skin tone: Massage can improve skin tone. 

• Improved digestion: Abdominal massage can help with constipation. 

• Improved quality of life: Massage can improve quality of life for people with cancer. 

   Consultation 

• Your massage therapist will ask preliminary questions to determine your overall health and your health and wellness goals.

• The massage therapist will consider information about your physical condition, medical history, lifestyle, stress levels, medications and any areas of physical pain that could affect your massage therapy outcome.

• This information will help the massage therapist structure the session to achieve your health and wellness goals.

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   Privacy

• Before your massage, you’ll be asked to remove clothing to your level of comfort.

• The massage therapist will leave the room while you undress. Take off only as much as you are comfortable removing.

• Lie on the massage table, underneath the provided sheet or towel, which will cover your body except for the part being massaged.

• Chair massages, which often are offered in public spaces and workplaces, are an exception. A specially-designed massage chair lets you lean forward and supports the front of the body. You remain clothed and no oil or lotion is used. Seated massages typically last from 10 to 30 minutes.

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   Environment

• Music might be played. If you find music distracting, tell your massage therapist. The same goes for talking during your session.

• Your massage therapist should check on pressure and comfort throughout your appointment. If you're uncomfortable at any time, tell your massage therapist.

• The massage table is padded and may have extra attachments or cushions, such as a face cradle, which allows you to lie facedown without turning your head or neck.

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   Massage Therapy Session

• Massage therapists often use oil or lotion. If you're allergic to oils or lotions, tell your massage therapist beforehand.

• If you're receiving a hot stone massage, make sure you're comfortable with the temperature of the stones, and always tell your massage therapist if you are uncomfortable.

• Depending on your needs, the massage therapist will massage either the full body (except private areas) or only specific areas that need attention, such as especially tight muscles.

• Remember to breathe normally.

• Table massage usually lasts between 30 and 90 minutes. 

• After your massage, the massage therapist will allow you to slowly get up and get dressed in privacy.

• Depending on the environment, tips are appreciated to recognize outstanding service, but not required.

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   Follow Up

• The benefits of massage therapy are cumulative, so work with your massage therapist to customize a plan to meet your health and wellness goals.

Experiencing soreness or tight muscles is normal after a massage, especially if it's been a while since your last massage or you've never had one. This discomfort usually lasts a few hours to about a day and a half. Drinking water after a massage is recommended by most experts to help your body flush out toxins and waste products, rehydrate, and support muscle recovery.

Some people should avoid getting massages, or should only get them after consulting with a doctor, depending on their health conditions: 

• Broken bones: A massage should be avoided if you have broken or fractured bones. 

• Other serious medical conditions: A massage should be avoided if you have other serious medical conditions. (consult your doctor)

• Pregnancy: A massage should be avoided if you are pregnant if you have complications. (see Pregnancy below) 

• Cardiovascular conditions: A massage should be avoided if you have cardiovascular conditions, such as hypertension, heart conditions, thrombosis, or phlebitis. 

• Other conditions: A massage should be avoided if you have other conditions, such as diabetes, epilepsy, Bell's palsy, trapped or pinched nerves, gynecological infections, or cancer. 

• Infections: A massage can spread an active infection in the area being massaged. 

• Fever: A massage can make a high fever worse. 

• Skin conditions: Some skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, severe acne, cold sores, and open sores, should be avoided. 

• Recent injuries or operations: A massage should be avoided after recent operations or acute injuries. 

• Bleeding disorders: A massage should be avoided if you have a bleeding disorder. 

You should always ask your massage therapist if you have any questions or conditions that may affect your ability to receive a massage
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Pregnant women should check with their doctor first if they are considering getting a massage. Massage in pregnant women should be done by massage therapists who are certified in pregnancy massage. Massage should not be done directly over bruises, inflamed skin, unhealed wounds, tumors, abdominal hernia, or areas of recent fractures.

Women can begin massage therapy at any point in their pregnancy – during the first, second, or third trimester. Many facilities will refuse to offer massage to a woman who is still in her first trimester because of the increased risk for miscarriage associated with the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.

The American Pregnancy Association website provides wonderful information about women receiving massages during their pregnancy. It provides a lot of answers that you may have. Please visit their website and search "Prenatal Massage Therapy" for more information. 

 

If it's your first time with the massage therapist, arrive at least 10 minutes early to complete the necessary forms and time to discuss your intake form with your therapist. Otherwise, arrive 5 minutes early so you can have a few minutes to discuss your needs for that session with your therapist.
 

To prepare for a massage, you can also: 

• Hydrate: Drink plenty of water or herbal tea to help eliminate toxins released during the massage. 

• Eat lightly: Eat a light meal or snack no more than an hour before your massage to avoid digestion issues. 

• Shower: A warm shower can help you feel relaxed and clean, and loosen your muscles. 

• Wear comfortable clothes: Avoid restrictive clothing, and consider your shoes. 

• Breathe deeply: Deep breathing can help you feel more relaxed and help your therapist work out knots in your muscles. 

• Arrive early: Arriving early can help you feel relaxed during your massage. 

• Communicate: Communicate your needs or any changes you may have with your therapist before and during your massage. 

• Fill out your health questionnaire: Fill out any health questionnaires that are provided.