Frequently Asked Questions

New patients often have questions or misconceptions about Medical Massage Therapy. We believe it is important to address patients’ questions and concerns so that they can feel encouraged to try Medical Massage Therapy and experience its incredible health benefits.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN WELLNESS MASSAGE AND MEDICAL MASSAGE?

Medical Massage is defined as “A treatment with the intent of improving conditions or pathologies that have been diagnosed; this procedure is used to focus the treatment based on the diagnosed condition.” It is a treatment that is carried out by licensed massage therapists.

Wellness Massage does not require a specific diagnosis, there is often no treatment plan or medically necessary goals. Also, there is no need for a care plan and/or number of sessions because this service is elected at the discretion of the patient

WHAT IS THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE?

Therapeutic Massage is the systematic manual manipulation of the soft tissues of the body for the purpose of promoting circulation of the blood and lymph, relaxing the muscles, relief from pain, and the restoration of metabolic balance. One particular technique or a combination of several techniques can be used.

WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM RECEIVING MASSAGE/BODYWORK?

Individuals in all walks of life can enjoy the benefits of Massage/Bodywork. If you are a stressed-out executive, a student, a laborer, a stay-at-home mom, or an ill and homebound person, Massage/Bodywork may be an option to aid you on the road to recovery, well-being or maintaining your level of health. Massage/bodywork can help release muscular tension and pain, reduce mental and physical fatigue, reduce stress, and promote faster healing.

WHY DO I NEED MEDICAL MASSAGE?

It’s a drug-free approach. If you are recovering from Soft Tissue injuries or other conditions involving muscle tissue, Medical Massage may be of benefit to you. We commonly see patients recovering from automobile accidents in which they suffered Whiplash or other Sprain/Strain injuries of the torso, arms, and legs, Surgeries, Sports injuries, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and other thoracic outlet syndromes, Scoliosis, and Fibromyalgia, to name just a few.

HOW DO I CHOOSE A MEDICAL MASSAGE THERAPIST?

Choose someone who has advanced training and experience dealing with injury cases, as well as sound knowledge of a broad range of appropriate therapies, evaluation/assessment. Ask your therapist about their background and training.

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT FROM A MEDICAL MASSAGE SESSION?

Initially, your condition will be evaluated through palpation as well as by using a series of range-of-motion tests in which we will be looking for your passive, active and resisted range of motion. We will check for contraindications to Medical Massage, assess your stage of healing, and formulate a plan of care based on the diagnoses your physician, if available.

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?

Wear something comfortable allows you to move freely. During the evaluation process we will observe your posture, looking at things such as the level of your hip bones and the position of your spine. Shorts (and a sports-bra for women) would be ideal. Most medical massage treatments require that only the area of focus needs to be accessible.

IS IT SAFE TO HAVE A MASSAGE DURING PREGNANCY?

Experts say that massage can be effective in relieving tension during pregnancy, helping to prepare for labor and making the postpartum period less difficult. Certain massage movements also may be unwise at different stages of pregnancy.

DOES MASSAGE HURT?

The level of pain will depend entirely on the therapist’s techniques. In the course of a massage, the therapist will probably find areas of tenderness or pain. Receiving massage strokes in tender areas often creates a very satisfying sensation of “good pain.” A client can ask the therapist to decrease the pressure or try a different technique.

WHICH TECHNIQUE IS USED MOST?

Swedish massage is the most widely known modality. The technique includes long strokes, kneading movements, friction both superficial and deep, vibration and percussion. Oils, lotions and lubricants are usually applied. This technique is often used in combination with other techniques.

MEDICAL MASSAGE SEEMS EXPENSIVE, IS IT WORTH THE COST?

Medical Massage therapy may cost more than personal care expenses, like manicures or wellness checkups, but for many people it is a vital part of a well-rounded treatment plan. Massage Therapy can provide profound health benefits, especially for those with chronic pain and other chronic health issues. Massage Therapy is an investment in your health that can save you from unnecessary physical, emotional, and financial stress of future injuries, medications and more extreme treatments, like surgery.

WILL MY PROBLEMS BE FIXED WITH ONE MASSAGE SESSION?

While it’s likely you will feel great and experience notable pain and stress reduction after just one session, long-term issues require long-term care.

WHAT HEALTH BENEFITS CAN I EXPECT FROM MASSAGE?

Each patient’s results are dependent on their specific conditions, post-massage care, daily lifestyle and health habits. Therapeutic Wellness patients have experienced profound health benefits, including:

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I GET A MASSAGE?

It depends on your conditions and needs. Many patients visit Healing Hands Wellness Center every other week, while some visit every week and others only once a month.

HOW CAN I EXTEND THE BENEFITS OF MY MASSAGES?

Stretching, foam rolling and using the MELT Method daily can prolong the positive effects of massage. Strengthening weakened muscles and stretching tightened ones is also a great way to alleviate chronic pain and tension and prevent it from worsening in the future. Consider incorporating yoga into your routines to expand upon the range of motion, neurological integration, and muscle function improvements gained from massage. As with all health conditions and treatments, regular exercise, proper nutrition and adequate restful sleep amplifies the benefits of massage and promotes overall health of the mind and body. Consult Therapist during your appointment for more specific recommendations that will work best for you.

IS MASSAGE ONLY FOR RELAXATION?

Relaxation is an important part of massage therapy but the benefits of massage therapy can extend far beyond that. Massage can provide relief from a wide variety of medical ailments, including: