08/05/2021
WHAT TO EXPECT
Professional Therapeutic Massage should first and foremost always ring true to it's name.
PROFESSIONAL - At all times concerning conduct, information collected, communications and practices. A professional therapist should be well educated on these matters as well as the physical anatomy of the human body. Please also note that certain medical conditions do serve as a contra-indication for therapy and should be openly discussed to determine what kind of therapy is suitable.
THERAPEUTIC - There is undoubtedly a human mind and body connection. We were created to care for our bodies and therefor are connected to how they feel and function. While the goal of therapeutic massage is to provide therapy for muscles, tendons, ligaments, connective tissues, blood supply, and the nervous and lymphatic systems; patients can also expect a therapeutic affect on how these systems of the human body are directly connected to one's mind. These affects can be presented in several different ways.
Physically a patient can expect to experience one or more of the following:
- Some pain/soreness during and or after certain therapies, DON'T LET THIS SCARE YOU. Effective deep tissue and trigger point therapy is often described as uncomfortable in the moments before the releasing of the problem area. Since more pressure is used, and muscles and tendons are resistant to breaking down what they have built up, this takes skill in listening to the body and using appropriate pressures to achieve desired results. A skilled therapist communicates with the patient on this during the session and also instructs breathing techniques that are impertinent to effectiveness. There may also be instructions on using hot/cold therapies at home for after care of the targeted areas in order to assist in further relief and healing. The patient/therapist relationship is one of trust and communication.
- Relief from ailment (often described as a release in the targeted problem area.) This is always the goal, and should be the achieved outcome of a session. Although it is important to note that if the problem area is something that has been a long time on going issue, as I mentioned above, the body can be resistant to changing what it has formed and held in place; therefor often several sessions are needed to achieve and or maintain optimal results. It is recommended to schedule sessions accordingly and develop a maintenance schedule thereafter.
- Light headedness upon rising if laying flat during therapy (this is the result of the movement of your circulatory system and it's adjusting; you will be instructed to take your time in rising slowly)
- A "stuffy head" sensation (similar to the onset of a head cold) during and or immediately following therapy (this is a result of the lymphatic system movement and is temporary)
- Slight headache noted hours after session. While headache pain is often a common reason for therapy with a result of relief, many patients don't realize that the therapy itself can also be the cause of one in the hours after. This is part of the body's response to the movement of all systems involved, as well as toxins moving through the body at a faster rate, needing to be flushed by drinking plenty of water and following any after care instructions. The muscles and tendons can become agitated after the initial release causing some tension as well. A combination of rest and hydration is usually best.
- Increased relaxation and improved mobility. You can expect improved rest and function of your body as it is released from pain, tension, and discomfort. Some patients attest to the fact that they did not realize just how bad something was until it was fixed. The human body adapts and sometimes you are missing out on a healthier living than you even realize.
Emotionally and or mentally, a patient can expect one or more of the following:
- Nervousness prior to a first session. This is normal and can be quite common. Hopefully you have also heard of those who recall this in their own journey of therapeutic massage body restoration, only now to be so glad they kept on and were able to enjoy their outcome as well as their session, even if that takes some time. Everyone is different. Hopefully you have read all there is to offer here and you can rest assure that you are in good hands, and look forward to your own desired outcome as well.
- Rushing emotions during sessions. Patients refer to this as a wave of joy, sadness, and sleepiness are typically the most common (it is okay to fall asleep by the way.) These sensations should not be alarming if you are aware of their possibility of onset. It is all due to that mind body connection I mentioned above. It is completely normal and many patients refer to it as a bonus mental therapy session without words.
- Freedom of the mind from the thoughts and or feelings that were captive because of the ailment that is now gone. After successful sessions, you can expect a clearer mind, peace and patience. Physical ailments take their tole on the mind and you can feel robbed of these things. May you be blessed by the freedom you can achieve through your healing.
*Please see the related post "Common Needs & Modalities of Therapy" for complete descriptions of each type of massage. An educated and careful therapist will discuss the desired outcome of your therapy with you prior to your session and can join you in choosing the type of therapy you not only need, but that is safe for you as well as what you are comfortable with. Therapeutic massage can be achieved over clothing without any oil or cream, or with clothing removed and undergarments kept on if preferred. A sterile sheet should be used to cover the patient during the session, only exposing the current part of the body being targeted by therapy. A professional therapist has been well trained in this regard and the patient should rest assure at the comfort and safety of their session at all times.
* Office bookings are usually done fully clothed, no oil or cream, and in 10-20 minute sessions for each client.
I am the author of this page in it's entirety, my hope is that you can count on my knowledge and commitment to practices as a trusted partner in your journey to restorative mind and body health!
