Massage FAQs

What does "integrated" massage mean?

Simply put, an integrated massage uses a combination of techniques from a variety of modalities, specifically chosen at the time of the session, to alleviate issues discovered during the session. Through integrating various techniques, the practitioner is able to treat the whole body individually and not just provide a general "cookie cutter" session.

Why have a "full body" massage versus "spot treatment"?

My massage practice is based on the theory of Eastern medicine which views and treats the body as a whole mechanism and not individual parts. With this thinking you cannot isolate a region entirely and still be effective.

Often when a client comes in with pain in a specific area, the assumption is to work on that area in order to alleviate that pain. "Spot work" as it is usually referred to as, can be effective in treating specific pain, however it does not ensure that the route cause of pain has been addressed.

Our muscles are all interconnected. If we think of our muscles as rubberbands connected together, we can visualize how a pull from one end creates tension to other areas. If we just treat the areas of tension we are not tackling the cause of that tension.

Additionally, when pain is created from injury it is common for the antagonist (opposite) muscles to work harder in an attempt to protect the injured ones. This is done subconsciously through a change in posture or gait, to muscle armoring. This form of protection is called overcompensating. The resulting affect is pain in the antagonist muscles.

A "full body" approach to massage opens the session up to discovering ALL areas requiring precise work, thus bringing the "whole body" to a more balanced state of health.

How long does a session last?

Sessions run approx. 1.5 hours, depending on what issues are discovered during the session. It is recommended to schedule an appointment when you do not have a time restraint. However, sessions can be tailored to an hour or longer if requested.

What happens during a session?

Prior to a session, I will have you fill out a client questionnaire of basic information that will help me better plan your session. If possible, I will have you email that to me ahead of time. If not you can bring it with you and we will briefly discuss it before the session begins. I will then go over various procedures and answer any questions you may have regarding the session. Your posture and range of motion may be assessed at this time. At this point I will leave the room, and allow you time to undress and get on the table.

What do I wear?

Massage is performed directly on the skin so it is recommended you wear as little as possible during your session. To be truly effective, it is important to work not only the muscles but the areas where the muscles attach to bone. This is especially true around the gluteal muscles where lower back and leg muscles attach to the pelvic (hip) girdle. However, it is equally important for you to be able to relax during the session. Therefore it is ultimately your choice in comfort level, and your session will be modified accordingly.

During the session, you will be draped at all times, leaving no areas exposed. Only the areas that are being massaged will be undraped at any given time, and once finished, draping will be returned.

What is your draping policy?

I drape with a sheet, as taught during my training. I find towel drapping to be cumbersome and not flexible enough in allowing me to secure your privacy while giving me ample area to work. Draping is always used in my sessions. The room runs cool, so if need be I can add a blanket for some warmth.

Will the massage be painful?

During the course of the massage it is likely that some areas of tension, muscle adhesion and trigger points will be discovered. When working with these areas it can sometimes be a little tendor or sore, but I will always work within your tolerance levels. It is important during a session that you convey to the therapist if any pressure is too deep in order to maintain a state of relaxation throughout the massage. For the session to be beneficial you must be relaxed to allow the muscles to release. Sometimes you may feel some soreness for a day or so after the session. If this is the case, don't worry this is quite common. You should only be slightly tender and it will ease over 24 to 48 hours.

How often should I have a massage?

Everybody is different so this is a hard question to answer. In general however, if you come for massage because you are experiencing pain and restricted movement then usually 2 to 4 sessions weekly is recommended to really understand the problem, muscles and structures involved and to start breaking down adhesions and trigger points. The situation would then be reassessed and further treatments, if required, would probably be less frequent.

If you are just experiencing some stiffness or tightness, then it may be that only one massage weekly is required. For general maintenance work some people like to come for a massage on a bi-weekly basis, others monthly, and some will only come once every 6 months or so.

This decision is up to you and how you are feeling. You will never be encouraged to come for more sessions than is required.