What to Expect at your First Massage

Have you considered getting a massage, but maybe you are a little nervous?

Our team of experienced and professional Registered Massage Therapists will customize each treatment to meet your individual goals.

 

WHAT TO EXPECT:

When you arrive for your first treatment we will ask you to fill out a health history form; you should allow 10-15 minutes before your appointment start time for this. You may also wish to print the form from our website, fill it out in advance and bring it with you.

Your therapist will greet you and take you into a treatment room where you will sit down and discuss your health history. Since it is your first visit with the therapist, he or she will also perform an assessment that will allow them to create a safe treatment plan that is customized to your specific needs.

Your therapist will then leave the room while you get comfortable on the treatment table. Some clients prefer to completely disrobe, while others prefer to leave on their undergarments.  Most massage techniques are performed with skin on skin contact, however, what you wear is entirely up to you (see our post on “The Undressing Issue”). Once you are on the massage table, you will be completely covered with a sheet and blanket.  Your therapist will knock on the door to be sure you are ready before they re-enter the room.

During your treatment you will be professionally draped (covered) with the sheet; your massage therapist will only uncover the part of the body they are working on to ensure your modesty is respected. He or she will also ask you from time to time if the pressure is okay – please be sure to communicate with your therapist about pressure – especially if any techniques cause pain. Pain is not okay. While there may be a certain level of discomfort and ‘good ache’ when working on a problem area, it’s important that you communicate with your therapist about how you experience the pressure so that the massage can be most effective, without causing injury.

Once your massage is complete, your therapist will leave the room for you to redress. When you are ready, open the door slightly to signal your therapist and he or she will come back into the room to discuss the treatment and share important tips for home care. Your therapist will meet you at the reception desk, where we will take your payment, provide you with a receipt and assist you with booking your next appointment.

Generally speaking, you should expect to feel mellow and relaxed after your massage. If any areas of pain were addressed, you may feel a reduction in pain immediately, or it may take a day or two before you feel that relief. If you are ever very sore following a massage, (it’s rare, but it can happen) please call us so we can discuss the best course of action, and so that your therapist can adjust your next massage.
 

WE LOOK FORWARD TO MEETING YOU!

 

Helpful Tips:

  • Arrive 10-15 minutes early to your first massage
  • Fill out your health history form with care – it will help us treat you safely
  • Avoid smoking and large meals for 1 hr before and after, if possible
  • Avoid wearing perfumes or fragrance, if possible
  • Communicate with your therapist about the pressure you experience
  • Drink plenty of water before and after your massage

 

Created December 13, 2015 | Category: All things Massage