What happens during a massage?
When you first arrive at my massage studio, you’ll be asked to complete a client intake form (or you can fill it out ahead of time by accessing it on our Policies and Forms Page). This provides the personal information necessary to determine the style of massage most appropriate for you. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about anything you’re unsure about or any concerns you might have. For example, if you prefer a lighter or deeper massage, make that preference known. I will also do a physical assessment that may include range of motion testing, observing your standing and walking posture. Additional physical assessment may be done while you are on the table.
While filling out forms is helpful for my records and long term memory for your course of treatment, it is important for me to know how you are currently doing at each session. I will have a brief intake conversation before each session to discuss how you feel on that particular day and what your goals are for that session. I will then give you instructions about how to get on the table, what I plan to do in the session and what to expect. If you have any questions or concerns, you are encouraged to speak up and ask at any time before, during and after our session together. It is my highest priority that you feel safe, empowered and comfortable. This includes but is not limited to temperature, position on the table, types of strokes or movement that you like or dislike, level of undress, music and lighting.
What should I wear during my treatment?
You should undress to your comfort level. Many people will remove all their clothing and many others will leave on their underwear or shorts. Either way, you will be covered with a sheet and only the body part being worked on will be uncovered. I will maintain your modesty at all times.
Is there any reason I should not get a massage?
There are several reasons to not get a massage. If you have any of the following conditions, you should not receive a massage.
- Blood clots
- Bleeding
- Fever
- Fracture
- Infectious disease
- Cold or Flu
- Open sores
- Systemic infections
These guidelines protect both the patient and the practitioner. If you are unsure if a condition could prohibit you from getting a massage, call me before your appointment.
How often should I receive a massage?
At least one session a month is recommended for stress prevention and muscle management, but more may be needed during physically stressful periods. Weekly sessions may be necessary for injury relief or chronic tightness. I will discuss with you what I recommend. Because frequency increases efficacy, I offer packages to make receiving massage more often more affordable.
Do I need to make an appointment?
Yes, I work by appointment only to guarantee that I am ready for your appointed time. If you need a same-day appointment, it’s best to call as early as possible. I am often booked daily but I will try to honor any same-day requests as best as I can.
What is your cancellation policy?
I require a 24 hour cancellation notice. If you would like to change your appointment, please call us at 301-200-2329 no later than 24 hours prior to your appointment. We do understand that life can make last-minute changes in your plans. It is customary in the healthcare industry to enforce a 24 hour cancellation notice to avoid being charged for any service. I charge half the cost of the appointment for cancellations within the 24 window. However, if a client fails to cancel within 24 hours multiple times (2 or more), they may be asked to pre-pay for future services.
Am I expected to tip?
Tips are not expected. However, if you feel that the work you received was beneficial and that others would also benefit, I encourage you to donate a “pay it forward” gift certificate that can be used to subsidize the cost of a session for someone who cannot afford the full price.
Do I need to know about which massage techniques or modalities work best for me?
No, If you explain what your concerns are and what expectations you want, along with your medical history intake form, I will suggest or use the proper techniques for your situation. My massage sessions use a combination of Swedish and Deep tissue. I also incorporate Myofascial Release, stretching and other modalities that I learn. These techniques are chosen by me depending upon the muscle condition, comfort level, tissue response, personal preference, dysfunction level and intended goals. I can smoothly switch techniques as the conditions warrant and most often, the client is not even aware that a change has taken place. Again, your comfort and understanding is critical. I will discuss the plan with you so that you understand fully what will happen during the session.