What to Expect
BEFORE, DURING AND AFTER TREATMENT
BEFORE & DURING YOUR TREATMENT
- Before your massage begins, you'll fill out an intake form to provide important health information. This helps the therapist understand your specific needs, areas of discomfort, and any health conditions that could affect the treatment. Be prepared to discuss your goals for the session, such as relaxation, pain relief, or muscle recovery.
- Based on your consultation, the massage therapist will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. They’ll ask about the level of pressure you prefer and any areas you’d like to focus on or avoid. This helps ensure your comfort and that the session targets your goals.
- Expect complete privacy when preparing for your massage. The therapist will leave the room while you undress to your comfort level and lie on the table under a sheet or blanket. During the massage, only the area being worked on will be uncovered, ensuring your comfort and modesty throughout.
- The therapist will follow professional draping techniques to ensure you feel secure and comfortable. They will only uncover the part of your body that is being massaged, keeping the rest covered. This provides both warmth and modesty during the session.
- During the massage, feel free to communicate with your therapist about pressure, temperature, or if something feels uncomfortable. The therapist will also check in periodically to ensure you’re relaxed and that the pressure is right. Open communication enhances your experience and ensures your needs are met.
- Depending on your treatment plan, expect the use of different massage techniques. These may include Swedish massage for relaxation, deep tissue for targeting muscle tension, or sports massage for injury recovery. Each technique feels different, so be prepared for a variety of sensations, from light strokes to deeper pressure.
AFTER YOUR TREATMENT
- After your session, the therapist will discuss how you’re feeling and review the areas they worked on. They may provide feedback on muscle tension, suggest at-home stretches or hydration tips, and recommend follow-up sessions if needed. This helps maximize the benefits of your massage and supports ongoing wellness.
- It’s common to feel deeply relaxed, sleepy, or even a bit light-headed after a massage. Your body has just gone through a therapeutic process, and the release of tension can make you feel calm and peaceful. Take a moment to rest and gather yourself before getting up.
- Massage therapy stimulates blood flow, so you might notice a warming sensation or an overall sense of increased circulation. This is normal and contributes to muscle recovery, detoxification, and the healing process.
- After a massage, it’s important to hydrate. Massage can release toxins and lactic acid from the muscles into the bloodstream, and drinking water helps flush these out of your system. Your therapist may remind you to drink plenty of water to aid in your body's recovery.
- Depending on the type of massage, especially if deep tissue or sports massage was involved, you may experience some muscle soreness or sensitivity for a day or two afterward. This is similar to post-exercise soreness and usually resolves quickly as your muscles adjust.
- The positive effects of massage therapy can extend for days after the session. You might notice reduced stress, improved sleep, or relief from muscle tension. Regular massage therapy can enhance these long-term benefits, helping you feel more balanced, flexible, and at ease in your body.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How early should I arrive for my appointment?
Arriving 10-15 minutes early is a good practice. This allows time to fill out any intake forms, have a brief consultation with the therapist, and settle in before your session begins.
What should I wear to my massage therapy session?
You can wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to your appointment. During the massage, you will undress to your comfort level and remain draped under a sheet or blanket throughout the session.
Do I need to take off all my clothes?
You only need to undress to your comfort level. During the session, you will be covered with a sheet or blanket, and only the area being worked on will be exposed. Many people choose to leave on underwear, but it's entirely up to you.
What kind of massage should I get if I'm not sure what I need?
If you’re unsure, a Swedish massage is a great option for relaxation and overall well-being. During your consultation, your therapist can also suggest a type of massage based on your specific needs, such as muscle tension or recovery from an injury.
What should I do after my massage?
After your massage, it’s important to hydrate and allow your body to relax. Gentle stretching or a warm bath can enhance the benefits of the session. Your therapist may provide specific recommendations based on your treatment.
Will the massage therapist customize the session to my needs?
Absolutely! Your therapist will discuss your goals, preferences, and any areas of concern to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs, such as relaxation, pain relief, or muscle recovery.
How often should I get massage therapy?
The frequency depends on your goals. If you’re dealing with chronic pain or stress, regular massages (weekly or biweekly) may be beneficial. For general wellness and relaxation, once a month might be ideal.
How can I book a massage therapy session at Hands of Stone Wellness & Performance?
To book a session, you can visit the Hands of Stone Wellness & Performance website, or call the clinic directly.