Top 13 Massage Frequently Asked Questions
If you've never had a massage before, you'll have questions. So we're going to address all those massage FAQs you might have, even the embarrassing ones! That way you won't have to ask them to our faces (although, you still can, of course!).
#1: Is massage painful?
It's not unusual to feel some soreness after a massage. This is due to a release of lactic acid in the muscles, but it doesn't last long. You may also have some discomfort during your massage. This depends on the area we're working on, any pre-existing pains, and whether the therapist is using too much pressure. In which case, refer to question #7! You can always ask the therapist to use less pressure at any time if it’s too uncomfortable.
#2: Do I have to take my clothes off?
No! All our therapists will ask you to remove clothing only as far as you feel comfortable. If you only want to undress to your underwear, that's fine.
The therapist will leave the room while you're undressing and will provide towels and blankets to cover you during the massage. There are some massages that work well if you want to remain clothed, so discuss this with us before you book.
#3: I’m self-conscious about _____. What should I do?
We all have parts of our body we're self-conscious about. Some areas you may be concerned about are:
Your weight
Unwanted body hair
Scars
Acne or other skin blemishes
Please don't let this stop you from getting help from a massage therapist. If you're sensitive about a particular area, ask them to avoid it. You can also opt for a fully clothed massage. Whatever your concerns, know that your therapists are friendly, supportive and judgment-free.
#4: Should I see a Massage Therapist if I’m not in pain?
Massage therapy is a great natural solution when you want relief from pain, but it can also be used as a preventive treatment too. Seeing your massage therapist regularly can help:
Lower cortisol and raise serotonin levels to calm and relax your body
Loosen tight muscles, which may increase blood flow, leading to lowering your blood pressure
Often, depending on what you are seeing your RMT for, they may use a different technique or massage modality. There are many examples of different massage therapies, including Swedish Massage, Neuromuscular Therapy, Connective Tissue Therapy, Deep Tissue Therapy, Joint Mobilization, or Stone Therapy.
#5: What if I fall asleep and drool or snore?
When it comes to massage frequently asked questions, this is a common one. It's normal to fall asleep during a massage. You might be feeling stressed and sleep-deprived, so falling asleep is normal once you're in a relaxed state.
There's zero judgment from us if you snore. We're pleased you're relaxed enough to fall asleep, and we won’t mention it.
Drooling is also common, especially if you're on your front. Ask us for a tissue, and we'll be glad to grab one for you.
#6: What'll happen at my first massage?
We'll ask you to fill out a health history form to let us know about any current concerns or goals you want us to deal with.
We'll then give you privacy to make yourself comfortable – whether you decide to remove your clothing or not.
If you have questions, please don't hesitate to ask them.
#7: Isn't massage just to help you to relax?
Massage is excellent for relaxation! But it also has many other benefits.
Massage helps with chronic muscle aches and pains. It helps to reduce stress and ease muscle tension. It's also great to improve circulation, alleviate breathing problems, lower your blood pressure, reduce headaches, improve your daily mobility and wellbeing, and help you manage anxiety and depression. Massage also helps to promote good, healthy sleep. (see question 4 above about sleeping!)
#8: Is it okay to ask for more or less pressure?
Yes! A good massage therapist will check in with you during your massage to make sure the pressure is okay.
Be mindful that massage doesn't have to cause you pain to be effective. Some massage techniques are pretty gentle. But do speak up and ask your therapist if you'd like more or less pressure during your session. We won't be offended!
#9: What if I need the bathroom?
We recommend going to the bathroom before your session, but it can occasionally happen that you'll need to go during the massage. We want you to be relaxed, so if you're focusing on holding it in, it’ll interfere with your experience. So do speak up, and we'll let you know where the bathroom is.
#10: What if I pass gas during a massage?
When you're in a relaxed state, you might pass gas during your massage. It may even occur when the therapist applies direct pressure to a particular area.
Any massage therapist will let you know this is normal and just shows you're relaxed. You'll get zero judgment from your therapist. If you can't bear to let it happen, just excuse yourself to go to the bathroom.
#11: Should I talk to the therapist during my massage?
Some people prefer to chat during their massage session but don't feel you have to make conversation. If you want to close your eyes and relax, that’s alright.
Do speak up if:
You're feeling hot or cold
You're in pain
You have questions, or you forgot to mention something important during the consultation
#12: What happens if I'm ticklish?
Let your massage therapist know before your session. They can use firm, slow pressure or, if you're extremely sensitive, they can avoid your tickle spots.
#13: How can I be sure a massage clinic is reputable?
Do your research by checking out their website or calling them to find out what services they offer. A reputable clinic will offer therapeutic massage from licensed or certified therapists. They'll also always get you to do a health questionnaire on your first visit.
We hope these massage frequently asked questions and responses help you feel happier about booking your massage. Get in touch to book your treatment and ask us all of your questions (even the embarrassing ones).