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If you have any
questions prior to your visit, please don't hesitate to call us at (703) 257-7950 or e-mail
us at
info@heartandhandwellness.com.
- I have never had a massage before. What do I wear?
Your comfort is the most important thing when receiving a massage. We tell our clients to undress to their level of comfort. You may
undress completely, or wear as much clothing as you wish. You
will be covered at all times with a sheet and blanket (with the exception of the body part being worked
on).
- Should I tip my therapist? How much?
Tipping is appreciated, but not expected. We would rather you come back
soon than tip us. Feedback is always welcome. Our policy is to exceed your
expectations.
- Do you use oils and lotions?
We use professional massage oils and lotions such as lanolin. They
are water-soluble and will not stain clothing. If you
have allergies to nuts or oils, please let your therapist know.
- Will it hurt?
Even deep tissue massage should not hurt. Our therapists use a “relative
pain scale” to ensure we are always working with what is comfortable and
acceptable to you.
- Do you clean the table after each client?
Absolutely. Fresh, clean linens are used for every session.
- What are the therapists’ qualifications?
All of our therapists are graduates of 500-hour or more certificate programs and
are nationally certified.
- Can I get a massage if I’m pregnant?
Yes! We have lots of experience massaging expectant moms. As your
pregnancy progresses, your baby receives benefits too! Of course, check
with your physician if you have any concerns.
- Can I get a massage if I have AIDS?
Of course. However, please inform your therapist before the session. Do
not receive massage if you have any open lesions.
- What can I expect my first time?
In the case of general relaxation, or what is often called "Swedish"
massage, there is an almost universal procedure among massage therapists in
the United States. You are asked to undress to whatever point you are comfortable. This
means you may remain fully clothed, you may undress completely, or anything in
between. The massage therapist leaves the room and gives you sufficient time
to undress and get onto the table under a sheet. During the massage, only the part of your body currently being
worked on is uncovered. Those parts of your body generally considered private
are not uncovered or worked on. If there is any part of your body you prefer
not to be massaged, for example your feet are ticklish, you should discuss this with the massage therapist before the session. If
you are uncomfortable with any aspect of the massage, you should inform the
therapist immediately. As you get to know the therapist over repeated
sessions, some of your preferences and your level of comfort may change, at which time you may
review any aspect of your treatment with the therapist.
In the case of pain relief work, or "problem-solving therapy", the
matter of undressing will depend primarily on two factors: 1)
what and where the problem is (and remember, the true cause of the pain may
not be where you think it is), and 2) what approach, modalities and techniques
the particular therapist uses. The therapist will generally let you know where
and how he or she intends to work on you, and ask you to undress to whatever
degree is necessary for effective work to take place. However, your
modesty will be preserved at all times. As in all health
procedures, all treatment is subject to your informed consent. It is a good
idea to discuss these issues with the therapist before treatment begins.
- Does insurance cover massage therapy?
Some companies will pay for massage therapy if it is prescribed by a
physician. Please consult with your insurance company first. We will be
happy to supply any required documentation.
- Are there contraindications for massage therapy?
Massage should obviously not be done over the site of any recent
tissue damage, such as a broken bone, a bruise, or a wound. Care should be
taken with deep work on persons with fragile or brittle bones. Areas of
internal organic problems should be avoided. If there is any doubt, a
physician should be consulted first and x-rays taken. Be sure to tell the
therapist beforehand about any recent health problems, injuries or surgeries.
- Can I bring someone with me to the session?
You have the right to have anyone present during the session that you wish.
In fact, we have frequently done parent-child therapy sessions as a way of
introducing a child comfortably to massage therapy.
- Can massage help
relieve pain from my medical condition?
Massage can help to lessen or eliminate pain stemming from a
wide range of medical conditions that include fibromyalgia, lupus, myofascial
pain syndrome, sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome, TMJ pain, migraines, and
others. Other methods for pain relief include
Neuromuscular Therapy (NMT) and Myofascial Release (MFR). There are some
conditions for which massage is contraindicated; make sure to tell your
massage therapist what condition you're seeking relief for.
- I bruise easily, can I still get a massage?
Yes. You should inform your massage therapist that you bruise easily
and why; e.g., medications, medical condition, etc. Your massage therapist
can adjust his/her pressure and technique to prevent or minimize bruising.
- What are the key benefits of massage therapy?
- Physical -- Massage therapy is designed to stretch and loosen muscles,
improve blood flow and the movement of lymphatic fluid throughout the body, facilitate
the removal of metabolic wastes resulting from exercise or inactivity, and
increase the flow of oxygen and nutrients to cells and tissue. In addition,
massage stimulates the release of endorphins -- the body’s natural
painkiller -- into the brain and nervous system.
- Mental -- Massage therapy provides a relaxed state of alertness,
reduces mental stress and enhances your capacity for calm thinking and
creativity.
- Emotional -- Massage therapy satisfies the need for caring and nurturing
touch, creates a feeling of well-being and reduces anxiety levels.
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