I’m writing this article to offer some insight and tips on how to maximize your massage treatment and experience. I’d love to hear about your experience and perspective on the subject!
Step 1:
Finding the right therapist to address your specific concern.
Know that what you experienced with one therapist most likely won’t repeat itself with another therapist, even with the same treatment. Not every therapist is a good fit for every client and vice versa. Get a recommendation when possible. If that’s not an option – do your research – find out what techniques and modalities the therapist is proficient in. A relaxation massage is very different from a medical massage, a therapeutic and sports massage can have similar techniques. What dictates the technique and approach taken is your area of discomfort – main concern you want addressed. Once you’ve found a therapist, I recommend you consult with them before booking a massage. This is crucial if you would like to treat a specific condition (sciatica, chronic pain, etc.), not as crucial if you’re seeking a relaxation massage. Lastly, schedule your massage on a day your schedule is not filled to the brim, so you’ll have time to reap the benefits of the massage.
Step 2:
Your massage treatment.
Arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled treatment to allow time to complete paperwork, discuss your concern, and go through an assessment. Be clear about what you’d like to achieve. The more information a therapist has, the more focused the treatment becomes. Don’t forget to mention previous injuries (even if it was years ago and you feel no issues from it) or surgeries. During the massage, don’t hesitate to speak if you have a concern or feel discomfort – some therapy may be uncomfortable but should always remain tolerable – your feedback is essential. We aim to keep you comfortable and relieve your pain and/or tension – it’s a team effort!
Step 3:
After your massage treatment.
Once the session is over, take your time to regain your equilibrium. With each exhalation, your body sinks into its new space. For the rest of the day refrain from alcohol and heavy exercise or over-exertion. Focus on good food, stay hydrated and indulge in what makes you happy! Take a mental note of what worked most for you to revisit in subsequent sessions. Incorporate the therapist’s advice/therapeutic homework for specific stretches and exercises into your weekly routine. Know that a good therapist is attentive and passionate about helping you attain relief. Also, note that most tension or pain people live with has been building up for years – it will take some time to come to a more balanced feeling. You will find strength and balance that wasn’t there before by taking corrective measures in your lifestyle (ergonomics, therapeutic exercises, orthotics, massage therapy, etc.).
My Belief
Our bodies have the duty of taking us through a lifetime. Our duty is to maintain its integrity. It’s easier to stop something from happening in the first place than to repair the damage after it’s done! That’s my favorite proverb – an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
Contact me for a consultation, and we’ll discuss the best-suited massage based on your needs.
Stand tall Breathe deep,
-Corina
Integrative Fitness Therapy 