Massage - Your First Experience

This week I had quite a few new patients, and as I went over the treatment information, I realized how much of this is brand new to so many people. While massage is much better understood than it was 10 or 20 years ago, there are still a lot of questions around massage. There are many different treatment styles and environments. A massage you receive on vacation at a resort is likely to be very different from the medical massage you'll receive here in the chiropractic office. I'd like to share some information about what to expect during your first massage treatment here at Sound Chiropractic.

While Dr. Early will do a thorough exam and explain the treatment plan to you, many of the same questions will be asked by your massage practitioner. This is done for several reasons. First, we keep seperate charts and like to ensure that all information is complete. Secondly, some of our patients receive massage therapy only and are not seeing Dr. Early. Finally, by asking you for a complete health history and description of your current symptoms, your massage therapist is sure to have the best, most up to date information. This will ensure that your treatment plan is catered specifically to your needs.

Once the intake has been completed, your massage practitioner will advise you of the massage treatment they plan to give. This will be an overview of the areas of the body that will be targeted. They will then instruct you to "dress down" and tell you how to lie on the massage table. "Dressing down" is your choice. I like to tell clients to "dress down" to their level of comfort. For some that means completely disrobing, for others it means keeping a top on, socks on, or whatever makes them feel most comfortable to ensure the deepest relaxation. Remember, no matter what level you "dress down" to, you will always be covered with a sheet and blanket. Only the part of the body being worked on will be exposed.

While you change, your massage practitioner will step out of the room, make chart notes, wash their hands and return to provide your treatment. Most treatments last one hour, though 30 minute and 90 minute treatments are also avaiable. While on the table, your only job is to relax thoroughly and stay in communication with your therapist. By breathing deeply and slowly you will aid your muscles to relax to their fullest potential. Your massage therapist will ask you about your comfort and the pressure level during the massage, but always feel free to speak up if they don't ask first.

Your massage, especially your first massage, is all about you. You are in control of the treatment. If the temperature is too high or too low, ask your therapist to adjust it. If you need more or less pressure, tell them. You won't hurt our feelings by asking for adjustments. In fact, we appreciate requests because it is how we learn to best treat you.

These are some basic questions that come up day to day. If you have further questions, please email me at dianaskidmore@soundchiropractic.com Better yet, give us a call and come in for your massage treatment today! 206 440 7700