Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Massage Therapy (MT)
Q.
What is the difference between medical massage and relaxation massage?
A.
Clinical medical massage and relaxation massage are significantly different. The most significant difference is the intention behind the massage. Relaxation massage is a spa-like massage using Swedish massage strokes and focuses on total body relaxation. Medical massage uses broader techniques like trigger point therapy, myofascial release, stretching, and assistive tools. Most medical massage aims to improve motion, decrease pain, and muscle health recovery. Wellness 360 offers both medical massage and relaxation massage. While the massage therapy is in a private room, it can be noisy. If you are looking for a relaxation massage, it is best to schedule on the weekends when the physical therapy clinic is not open. Use the convenient online booking to schedule now.
Q.
What do I wear for my massage?
A.
A typical massage requires you to undress to your comfort level. Most people want a relaxation massage undresses fully or down to their underwear. You are fully covered with a sheet and blanket throughout your entire treatment. Only the area being worked on is properly and securely undraped. If you want a medical massage, please contact your therapist to find out more details. They may be able to work around clothing or require you to dress accordingly. Your therapist can work around any clothing you decide to leave on. The importance is or you to feel safe and secure throughout your treatment.
Q.
I am sore after my massage. Is this normal?
A.
Yes, this is entirely normal. The goal of the massage is to decrease pain and discomfort. However, most people are sore after their first massage. There are a lot of factors that play into your soreness. Are you dehydrated? Was the massage painful during the treatment? Were your muscles tight? Is this your first massage? It is essential to be open and honest with your treating therapist. This way, she can adjust the pressure throughout the massage to decrease the soreness after the treatment. The soreness should not last more than 24 - 48 hours. Drinking plenty of water before and after your treatment can significantly reduce your post-massage soreness.
Q.
I have Fibromyalgia. Can I still have a massage?
A.
Yes, massage is a wonderful healing tool for fibromyalgia. True fibromyalgia can not withstand much pressure on the tissue. Myofascial release is a good alternative for this diagnosis. Myofascial release is a specialized technique working on the fascial layer of connective tissue. It is a very light touch but a powerful way to address the layers of connective tissue, muscle, nerves, and deeper tissue layers. This technique can feel very stretchy and is a much different technique than your typical Swedish stroke. Wellness 360 does use myofascial release in most medical massage treatments. It is an excellent tool for fascial pain, post-surgery, posture, and scar tissue.
Q.
I do not feel comfortable in lying down on a table. Are there other options?
A.
Yes, We have multiple options for massage therapy, including in a massage chair, lying on your side, seated in a desk chair, and propped up on wedges and pillows. It is essential to be open and honest with your therapist to get the most out of your treatment.
Q.
Will my insurance cover my massage?
A.
Unfortunately, we can not bill your insurance for your massage. There are occasions when your insurance may reimburse you for your session. We are happy to work with you to submit anything required from your insurance. You must reach out to your insurance and find out what is needed. Some insurances allow you to use your HSA cards. Again, it is your responsibility to call and ask your insurance. Suppose you have a chronic condition like neck pain or back pain. You can schedule an initial physical therapy evaluation, and we can incorporate manual therapy into your treatment option. You will be required to complete the appropriate exercise, stretching, and additional treatment options to have your manual therapy covered by your insurance.
Q.
How often should I receive a massage?
A.
It varies from person to person. If you are looking for occasional relaxation treatment, a session every 3 to 6 weeks may be fine. However, if you are looking to address a specific condition, it is recommended to go more frequently at first and slowly taper down to a maintenance schedule. The frequency of sessions should be discussed individually with your therapist after your treatment when she has a better hands-on understanding of your particular muscular issues.
Q.
Can I be denied massage therapy treatment?
A.
Yes, we are very strict on appropriate behavior before and during treatment. If the therapist feels threatened in any way, your service can be denied. Your treatment is based on the discretion of your treating therapist. If you have a health issue that the therapist feels uncomfortable treating, you may be denied treatment until she is more educated on the case at hand or has time to get a release from your MD. You may also be denied if you are not punctual with treatments or no-show more than two times.
Q.
When should I avoid scheduling a massage?
A.
You should not book a massage appointment if you have a fever, cold or flu, or a contagious skin infection. If you do have these symptoms, please give 48 hours notice and reschedule your appointment for another time. There are many conditions that were previously considered contraindicated that your treating therapist may be able to work with using a variation of techniques. These may include arthritis or osteoporosis or cuts or burns. Some conditions will require approval from your physician before you receive massage, such as, cancer, certain heart conditions and pregnancy.