Frequently Asked Questions

How do I go about finding a massage practitioner or therapist?

 

This very much depends on what you are looking for:

  • Do not consider distance a problem should you find a good therapist. You will always find the results worth the travel.
  • If you have a specific problem check that the therapist:
    • Understands the problem.
    • Has experience working on or with this problem and has positive results.
    • Is realistic regarding the possible outcome.
  • It is important that you feel totally comfortable with the therapst - afterall, massage/bodywork is a very personal thing. Having a good professional relationship ensures confidence and trust in both the person and the treatment being received.
  • Check that the therapist has training and qualifications relevant to the treatment you are looking for.
  • A professional practitiioner or therapist will have a 'Code of Practice' available, a 'Mission Statement', and insurance to practice; and will be happy to show you these.
  • Word of mouth is the best recommendation.

 

I want a massage but don't know what I want?

 

Massage is as individual as you are, therefore, I will discuss what outcomes you want and then plan a treatment towards that goal, incorporating whatever techniques are applicable at that point in time.  

 

Can I have different massage techniques during one treatment?

 

Absolutely! This will be discussed before each treatment begins and may also be changed during a treatment depending how your body responds to specific techniques.

 

I am very stressed, what will help me?

 

Most techniques are very effective at alleviating the symptoms of stress. Again, everyone is an individual with unique responses to stress, causes can also vary greatly; as a result, I will discuss your unique situation with you and together you will agree on the best treatment format. 

 

I work/live in a noisy environment, does music have to be played during my treatment?

 

No. Often, specific types of music can help people to relax or block out 'mental noise' but music is not compulsory.

 

How long will the benefits last?

 

This is impossible to say. Each person, each problem, and each body's response is completely different - as are the circumstances, causes, and outcomes. For example, some clients who have expected to require several appointments have had such dramatic results from only one treatment that they have used a second appointment purely as a follow up; other cliens attend at regular intervals (most commonly 4 to 6 weeks) to maintain long term improvement.

 

How often should I have an appointment?

 

A very difficult question to answer, in fact it is very similar to the question above. This is very dependent on the reasons for having a treatment - for example:

  • A rugby player (who plays on the wing) with a long history of hamstring problems received three separate (one hour) treatments from me for his hamstring problem, his recovery was such that not only did he return to full fitness but he was offered a contract with a new club in a higher division.
  • Another client, who badly injured her hamstring due to a fall, was in great pain and unable to weight bear; after receiving an hour and a half of intensive treatment not only was she able to weight bear but actually drove the 20 miles home.

Clients in stressful environments, be it work or home life, often have treatments on a regular basis (most commonly every month), this helps them to reduce their stress levels, alleviates stress associated physical and/or mental symptoms, and have a better quality of life.

 

On the other hand, a client who is experiencing an acutely stressful time may require one or two intensive treatments within a short period.

 

If you cannot offer me any help or pain relief will you tell me or do I have to make that decision?

 

If I do not think I can offer any help I will tell you; this maybe before you make an appointment, during the first appointment, or on pre-treatment assessment. 

 

Do I have to book a number of treatments with you?

 

No. I will discuss any suggested treatment plan with you. If a plan is applicable, it will be discussed and agreed with you, both prior to and after the first treatment.

 

What happens if I cannot attend an appointment due to the snow, ice, or an accident?

 

Please contact me as soon as you can. All situations will be looked at and dealt with on a case by case basis.