How much clothing should I remove for my massage session?
People have varying levels of modesty and different levels of experience with massage. When making your decision about how much clothing to remove, keep in mind that the only part of your body that will ever be exposed during the session is the part that is being worked on. At all other times, you will be covered by a sheet (and blanket, if desired). Strict draping protocols are adhered to as required by professional affiliations. Also, understand that the more clothing is removed, the more effectively the therapist can work.
What is the best frequency of treatment? For therapeutic treatments, most people find that a massage every two to four weeks suits their needs, but some come weekly for stress reduction.
How do I choose a therapist?
The easiest way to find a good therapist is through a recommendation from someone who has been to see the therapist and is happy with the treatment they received. A therapist should be happy to answer any questions you might have about the massage session and be willing to tell you about their credentials.
In Virginia, massage therapists are regulated by the Virginia Board of Nursing. Only individuals who have met certain requirements outlined by the board can be called Certified Massage Therapists. To ensure that your therapist graduated from a recognized massage therapy program, passed the national board examination and has kept up to date on their contiuning education requirements, ask about his/her state certification. Other voluntary organizations like the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA), also require graduation from a recognized massage therapy program, and continuing education hours to be a member.
Will therapy hurt?
Massage Therapy should never be painful. People have varying perceptions about what feels uncomfortable. The therapist will tailor the session to meet your individual needs. If at any time the treatment you are receiving is causing you discomfort, ask the therapist to reduce the amount of pressure being used.
Do massage therapists have a Code of Ethics?
Yes, certified massage therapists (CMT) adhere to the following code as dictated by the Virginia Board of Nursing, the AMTA and other professional organizations:
-We provide the best quality care to any one that seeks our professional help.
-We accept all clients without discrimination.
-We acknowledge the confidential nature of the professional relationship with a client and respect each client's right to privacy.
-We practice only the modalities in which we have been professionally trained and certified.
-We in no way participate or engage in any type of sexual activities with our client.
-We adhere to strict draping protocols to maintain your privacy at all times.
-We maintain a safe, clean and professional environment.
How much of my body will be massaged?
When the client is seeking treatment for a specific injury or condition, the entire session may focus on a single area. For relaxation massages, the therapist often addresses the body as a whole. A "full body massage" usually includes the neck, shoulders, face, scalp, arms, hands, legs, feet, and back. If you do not wish a certain part of you body to be included in your massage session, you should inform your therapist and they will adjust the massage accordingly.
Is it safe to receive massage during pregnancy?
Massage can be done safely during pregnancy. Pregnancy Massage is a specialized area of training. New Life Therapeutic Massage does not currently provide massage therapy for women who are pregnant. We recommend that you seek a massage therapist with advanced training in pregnancy massage.