Common Questions about Therapeutic Massage

Should I eat before a massage?
It is best not to eat at least a half hour before your session. Massage could possibly upset your stomach because of all the stroking, kneading and pressure being applied to your back, in addition to causing the blood flow away from the stomach and towards the heart.

Should massage be at all painful?
There may be some discomfort, especially in extremely tense areas. The pain will usually dissipate after a few minutes. Specific work should be done to your “optimal tolerance level (this is that “hurts good” time). The work may cause some bruising on some people, and your tissue may be tender for up to 24-48 hours after your massage.

What are those "knots"?
Technically, it is the abnormal joining of tissues. Those knots or "adhesions" can occur around a site of previous inflammation (accidents, trauma, strains, overuse, postural stresses, nutritional deficiencies, tension, anxiety, allergies, hormonal imbalances). Although they don't always cause problems, they can limit flexibility and range of motion in and around a joint capsule as well as in the muscle bellies or in the attachment sites of each muscle. The blood flow slows to this area causing an accumulation of metabolic waste products and lack of oxygen and nutrients to the area. This results in pain, muscle tightness and weakness.

When should I expect results?
Depending on the type of bodywork you choose, in most cases, tangible results can be realized as soon as your massage session is completed. You'll feel rejuvenated, relaxed and pain free. However, chronic conditions may require specific massage techniques and could take up to 4-6 weeks of massage therapy to achieve positive results.
How often should I receive massage?
Your personal situation will determine when and how often to receive a massage. In cases where there is chronic pain or medical conditions, your massage therapist and/or physician will determine the frequency of your sessions. When stressful situations arise, a massage can help you relax, release and let go. The cumulative effects of a weekly massage will certainly enhance your health and well-being.

Always feel welcome to ask any questions you may have.
This is your time! Make it benefit you by always being direct and open with your therapist.

Common Questions about your Therapeutic Massage Session

What kind of massage do you give?
Radiant Massage Therapy provides: Swedish relaxation massage which is usually requested for relaxation, enjoyment, or stress-relief; On-site massage, which is normally done fully clothed and with the use of a massage chair in a work environment; and Specific massage techniques called Trigger Point Therapy and Cross Fiber Friction which tend to be used for very specific symptoms or complaints, such as headaches or “tennis elbow”.

Swedish relaxation massage is the manipulation of soft tissue for therapeutic purposes and may include effleurage, petrissage, tapotement, compression, vibration and friction. It is a non-sexual, soothing massage that increases circulation to the muscles, removes muscle waste products, such as lactic acid and maintains muscle flexibility.

On-site massage is often done in work environments and at health fairs or “expos”. It typically involves the use of a massage chair, no oils or creams, and while the client is fully clothed. Work is most often done on the neck, shoulders, back and arms.

Trigger point therapy and cross fiber friction specific techniques includes the breaking up and broadening of muscle fibers with the intention of relaxing them and returning the muscles to a more “healthy” state. The work is often perceived as being “deeper”, but is always done at the client’s level of “optimal tolerance”. It may include the use of massage creams and hot or cold packs.

What are some of the benefits of massage?
Some of the benefits include better blood circulation, antidepressant effects such as mood elevation, mental relief, greater physical flexibility, pain/tension relief, and a stronger immune system.
Massage complements other therapies such as chiropractic and physical therapy and is generally helpful for most people including pregnancy, elderly, infants, athletes, physically challenged, as well as for general worker morale.

How long does a massage session last?
Most full body massage sessions last 1 hour. This gives the therapist time to address the issues that the client may have. An hour and a half session may also be beneficial because extra focus can be given to a particular muscle or muscle groups. Half hour sessions are available and usually focus on one area of the body. On-site massages are typically 7-15 minutes in length.

What is a full body massage?
A full-body massage generally covers the entire body except for the breasts and genital areas. You will be given options for specific areas you may or may not want to have massaged or touched.
Specific work is usually done on one or two areas of the body that you are experiencing particular complaints such as working on the neck for headaches or on the arms or back for “tingling” or pain in the arms or hands.

Will I be naked during the massage?
Disrobing options will be discussed before your session and each client will be asked to remove clothes and jewelry to their own comfort level. Your level of comfort will always be respected.
Clients will be draped by a sheet over their entire body except for the part of the body being worked on. Draping is not optional. Your therapist will not be near breasts or genitals.

Can I choose a male/female therapist?
I am a male therapist. I will gladly refer you to a female therapist or other businesses with female therapists if that is what you desire.

Do I need a Dr.’s approval?
Certain conditions may require a physician’s approval before receiving a massage. They may include high blood pressure, acute inflammation, fever, recent trauma and certain heart conditions, as well as pregnancy. When in doubt, you should always consult with your physician first.
You should inform your therapist of anything that might be a factor in your overall condition. I do work with insurance companies at this time.

Do I have any control during the massage?
You are in control of your therapy session! Pressure and technique, as well as environmental factors such as temperature, draping, volume of the music, or scents will be influenced by your participation. These items as well as what areas you would like massaged (or not massaged) will be discussed at the beginning of your session.

Do you recommend any behaviors during a massage?
Breathe deeply and regularly. The more you breathe, the more likely you are to reap the benefits of massage.
In a relaxation massage, try not to engage in conversation. Talking, except for communicating with your therapist about pressure, boundaries, etc. can distract you. Communication is necessary during specific work. Your therapist will need to know how your tissue is responding to the work.

Drink water. During the massage you will release toxins into your bloodstream. This may cause some clients to experience nausea. Drinking water after a session will flush the toxins out of your system.