FAQS
What to expect at your Back to Health Massage Therapy appointment.
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WHAT IS REGISTERED MASSAGE THERAPY?
The practice of Massage therapy is the assessment of the soft tissue and joints of the body and the treatment and prevention of physical dysfunction and pain of the soft tissue and joints by manipulation to develop, maintain, rehabilitate or augment physical function, or relieve pain. (Massage Therapy Act, 1991). Massage therapy has a therapeutic effect on the body and optimizes your health and well-being.  It acts on the muscular, circulatory and nervous systems.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT FROM MY FIRST SESSION?
You'll be welcomed into a cozy, relaxing space where your Therapist will come greet you and take you to your treatment room. Next, your RMT will review your health history form with you to find out what your goals are and if Massage Therapy is right for you. You'll then be asked for your informed consent to perform any assessments prior to your treatment as well as for your proposed treatment plan. You're encouraged to ask questions at any time and to be involved in your treatment plan and care.
DO I HAVE TO UNDRESS?
Massage is best done directly on the skin, so it is recommended that you undress to your comfort level. Your therapist will leave the room for you get undressed and comfortably positioned and covered up on the table. Throughout the treatment, you will be fully covered except for the specific area that's being treated. Your RMT will check in with you regularly to make sure you are comfortable.
WILL MY MASSAGE HURT?
Massage therapy doesn't have to hurt to be effective. Many people think "no pain no gain", however more does not necessarily mean better. We want to give you a treatment that is within your pain tolerance and comfort level. Everyone's pain threshold is different, so it is important to let your therapist know if you need more or less pressure. With that being said, areas of high tension, injury or trigger points can be more painful than other areas. Please let us know what your needs and expectations are so that we can give you the treatment that is right for you.
HOW OFTEN WILL I HAVE TO COME TO SEE RESULTS?
Everyone's body responds differently to massage therapy. If your condition has been long standing then you might need to come alittle bit more often in the beginning to see optimal results. Then, as your condition improves, treatments can be spread out. Many people benefit most from a regular maintenance program which is typically once every 4-6 weeks. Your therapist will recommend a treatment plan for you but in the end, it is up to you. For laser therapy, best results are after 6-8 sessions, typically 1-2x per week.
DO I HAVE TO ADD ULTRASOUND OR LASER TO MY MASSAGE?
No, some people just want massage only. However, ultrasound and laser therapy are great tools to assist in pain management and healing, so feel free to ask your therapist if they will benefit you. There is no extra charge to add these modalities to your treatment.
WILL I BE SORE AFTER MY MASSAGE?
It is not uncommon to feel more soreness after your massage for 24-48 hours. However, it should be manageable and tolerable. It is important to tell your therapist at your next visit how your body reacted and if you did or didn't like the feeling.
DO I HAVE TO TALK DURING MY MASSAGE?
This is your choice. Some people find it therapeutic to chat, while others prefer not to talk. Your therapist will follow your cues, but feel free to tell them ahead of time if you'd prefer not to talk. If you decide not to chat, it's still very important to provide feedback about the treatment itself, such as pressure, areas of local pain or referred pain to other areas of the body.