FAQS
Introduction to Massage Therapy
Massage is one of the
oldest healing arts: Chinese records dating back 3,000 years document its use;
the ancient Hindus, Persians and Egyptians applied forms of massage for many
ailments; and Hippocrates wrote papers recommending the use of rubbing and
friction for joint and circulatory problems. Today, the
benefits of massage are varied and far-reaching. As an
accepted part of many physical rehabilitation programs, massage therapy has also
proven beneficial for many chronic conditions, including low back pain,
arthritis, bursitis, fatigue, high blood pressure, diabetes, immunity
suppression, infertility, smoking cessation, depression, and more. And, as many
millions will attest, massage also helps relieve the stress and tension of
everyday living that can lead to disease and illness.
So
What Is It Exactly?
Massage, bodywork and somatic therapies are defined as the application of
various techniques to the muscular structure and soft tissues of the human body.
Specifically:
Massage: The application of soft-tissue manipulation techniques to the body, generally intended to reduce stress and fatigue while improving circulation. The many variations of massage account for several different techniques.
Bodywork: Various forms of touch therapies that may use manipulation, movement, and/or repatterning to affect structural changes to the body.
Somatic: Meaning “of the body.” Many times this term is used to denote a body/mind or whole-body approach as distinguished from a physiology-only or environmental perspective.
There
are more than 200 variations of massage, bodywork, and somatic therapies and
many practitioners utilize multiple techniques. The application of these
techniques may include, but is not limited to, stroking, kneading, tapping,
compression, vibration, rocking, friction, and pressure to the muscular
structure or soft tissues of the human body. This may also include non-forceful
passive or active movement and/or application of techniques intended to affect
the energetic systems of the body. The use of oils, lotions, and powders may
also be included to reduce friction on the skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where Will My Massage or Bodywork
Session Take Place?
Your massage or bodywork session will take place in a
warm, comfortable, quiet room. Soft music may be played to help you relax. You
will lie on a table especially designed for your comfort.
Who Will Perform the Massage or
Bodywork?
All of our Therapists at THA are Nationally Certified
by the NCBTMB, as well as licensed by the
State of Florida. All Therapists at THA also have extensive education in
various related fields of study far beyond minimum licensure requirements, as
well as post-secondary education. We pride ourselves on the progressive
attitude toward continued education. As no two Therapists are exactly alike,
you may request a specific Therapist after looking at their credentials found on
our ‘Appointments’ page, or if you have been referred by a current or previous
patient of THA.
Must I Be Completely Undressed?
Most massage and bodywork techniques are traditionally
performed with the client unclothed; however, it is entirely up to you what you
want to wear. You should undress to your level of comfort. You will be properly
draped during the entire session. Depending on the modalities utilized by your
Therapist, you may be requested to wear clothing for movement oriented bodywork.
Will the Practitioner Be Present When
I Disrobe?
The practitioner will leave the room while you undress,
relax onto the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet, and announce
themselves before returning.
Will I Be Covered During the Session?
You will be properly draped at all times to keep you
warm and comfortable. Only the area being worked on will be exposed.
What Parts of My Body Will Be
Massaged?
You and the practitioner will discuss the desired
outcome of your session. This will determine which parts of your body require
massage. A typical full body session will include work on your back, arms, legs,
feet, hands, head, neck, and shoulders. You will not be touched on or near your
genitals (male or female) or breasts (female).
What Will the Massage or Bodywork Feel
Like?
It depends on the techniques used. Many massage
therapists use a form of Swedish massage, which is often a baseline for
practitioners. In a general Swedish massage, your session may start with broad,
flowing strokes that will help calm your nervous system and relax exterior
muscle tension. As your body becomes relaxed, pressure will gradually be
increased to relax specific areas and relieve areas of muscular tension. Often,
a light oil or lotion is used to allow your muscles to be massaged without
causing excessive friction to the skin. The oil also helps hydrate your skin.
You should communicate immediately if you feel any discomfort so that another
approach may be taken. Massage and bodywork are most effective when your body is
not resisting.
Are There Different Kinds of Massage
and Bodywork?
There are numerous
types of massage and bodywork; various techniques
utilize different strokes, including basic rubbing strokes, rocking movement,
posture and movement re-education, application of pressure to specific points,
and more. Ask the practitioner about the methods he or she uses.
How Long Will the Session Last?
The average full-body massage or bodywork session lasts
approximately one hour. Many people prefer a 60- to 90-minute session for
optimal relaxation. Always allow relaxation time prior to and after the session.
If you require medical massage treatment prescribed by a medical doctor, or
have chronic pain or injury issues, a minimum of one hour is required.
What Should I Do During the Massage or
Bodywork Session?
Make yourself comfortable. The practitioner will either
gently move you or tell you what is needed throughout the session (such as
lifting your arm). Many people just close their eyes and completely relax.
Others like to talk during their session. Feel free to ask the practitioner
questions about massage and bodywork in general or about the particular
technique you are receiving.
How Will I Feel After the Massage or
Bodywork Session?
Most people feel very relaxed. Some experience freedom
from long-term aches and pains developed from tension or repetitive activity.
After an initial period of feeling slowed down, people often experience
increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity which can last
for days. Since toxins are released from your soft tissues during a massage, it
is recommended you drink plenty of water following your massage.
What Are the Benefits of Massage and
Bodywork?
Massage and bodywork can help release chronic muscular
tension and pain, improve circulation, increase joint flexibility, reduce mental
and physical fatigue and stress, promote faster healing of injured muscular
tissue, improve posture, and reduce blood pressure. Massage and bodywork is also
known to promote better sleep, improve concentration, reduce anxiety and create
an overall sense of well-being.
Are There Any Medical Conditions That
Would Make Massage or Bodywork Inadvisable?
Yes. That's why it's imperative that, before you begin
your session, the practitioner asks general health questions. It is very
important that you inform the practitioner of any health problems or medications
you are taking. If you are under a doctor's care, it is strongly advised that
you receive a written recommendation for massage or bodywork prior to any
session. Your practitioner may require a recommendation or approval from your
doctor.