How to Receive Massage

Here are some tips for how to receive massage therapy.

When you arrive for your first appointment, you will fill out a health questionnaire that gives your massage therapist the information needed to offer you safe and effective massage.

You will discuss any pain or injuries you have and what you want from the massage. Depending on why you are receiving massage, your massage therapist may observe your body alignment or do other assessments (for example, check your shoulder movement if you have a shoulder injury).

Your massage therapist will then leave the room while you undress and relax onto the massage table, covering yourself with a fresh sheet or towel. You can undress completely or wear underwear (unless you are receiving a type of massage that is done fully clothed)—you will be covered at all times except for the area being massaged. If you are unsure about anything, ask!

Before Your Massage...

• Avoid a heavy meal for a couple of hours before your massage because massage on a full stomach may be uncomfortable.
• Check your skin for any open cuts, scrapes, and scratches, and cover them with a bandage.
• Let your massage therapist know how you felt after your last massage and about any changes in your health, pain, or injuries.
• Be aware that massage is not recommended in the early or acute stage of cold or flu, because massage can help the virus spread through your body.

How to Receive Massage...

• Tell your massage therapist if you are cool; massage is more effective if you stay warm.
• Let your massage therapist know if you prefer different music or no music at all. If the therapist is chatty and you want quiet time, speak up!
• Tell your massage therapist if any part of the massage is painful or too uncomfortable.
• Breathe slowly, deeply, and evenly. When your massage therapist locates pain or tension, consciously try to relax the area by visualizing your breath flowing into the tension and then exhaling the tension with your breath.
• Relax. Do not help when your massage therapist lifts a body part. He or she will tell you if you need to move or shift position.

After Your Massage...

• Drink water to help flush out waste products moved around by the increased circulation created by massage.
• Deep tissue or injury/pain treatment massage may leave you feeling sore for a day or two. If you were experiencing pain when you came in for the massage, the general expectation is that you may be sore the first day, but by the second day you should feel looser and probably have less pain. Let your massage therapist know how you felt, so that he or she can adjust the approach if necessary.
• Call your massage therapist if you have concerns or questions.