It will take place in a warm, comfortable, quiet room with soft music to help you relax.
Most massage therapy techniques are typically performed with the client unclothed; however, it is up to you what you want to remove and you should undress to your level of comfort. Even if you don’t feel comfortable getting undressed at all, there are techniques that can be performed fully clothed.
We will leave the room while you undress, relax onto the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet. You will be properly draped at all times to keep you warm and comfortable. Only the area being worked on will be exposed.
We will discuss the desired goal of your session, which will determine what parts of your body require massage. A typical full body session includes 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).
We use a variety of techniques including Swedish massage, which start with broad, flowing strokes that will help calm your nervous system and relax your muscles. As your body becomes relaxed, pressure will gradually be increased to relax specific areas and relieve areas of muscular tension. Oil or lotion is used to allow your muscles to be massaged without causing excessive friction and also helps hydrate your skin. You should communicate immediately if you feel any discomfort so that another approach may be taken. Massage is most effective when your body is not resisting.
The length of the massage may vary from 30-90 minutes, during which time you could shut your eyes and relax. Massages are most beneficial when they are done routinely. It’s important to talk to your therapist about how often you should be getting massages.
Prior to the massage, please feel free to ask us questions about the technique or the upcoming session. During the massage, make yourself comfortable. We 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, quietly communicating if/when they need more or less pressure, another blanket, or anything else relevant to the session.
Some health insurance plans do cover massage therapy and we can contact your insurance company to ask if they cover massage therapy performed by a licensed massage therapist. Specifically, we do participate with MESSA, MEBS, AETNA and Blue Cross/Blue Shield as well as many other insurance carriers. Every plan has it’s own coverage levels which can be verified.
We see the best results in those individuals who make massage therapy a part of their routine healthcare. Depending on your personal situation, Dr. Karl will offer a recommendation as to when you should return, especially if you are trying to rehabilitate an injury or are utilizing massage for stress reduction.
Since we reserve your appointment time just for you, we require a 24-hour notice for all cancelled appointments. For those who give less than a 24-hour notice or no-shows, you will be responsible for a $35 cancellation fee.