FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

• What is a medical massage?

MEDICAL MASSAGE- There is a difference between spa massage and medical massage. In both, someone applies pressure to your body. However, a medical massage differs in three important ways:

1. It is outcome-based. In addition to stress relief and relaxation, a medical massage focuses on a medical need. It is often used to manage pain, reduce inflammation, improve circulation, relieve nerve compression, improve digestion, increase flexibility or treat other health care concerns.

2. It targets your needs through a variety of techniques. Spa massage and medical massage may feel similar, but their techniques differ. During a spa massage, the techniques likely focus on relaxation. A medical massage therapist will use a broader set of therapies for muscle health and recovery.

3. It includes specific follow-up recommendations. A medical massage therapist will provide a targeted plan for treatment, along with recommendations for a series of timed visits versus a periodic spa visit.

• How often should I receive a massage?

If you use massage to meet your overall wellness goals, a monthly session is common. If you are pregnant, have just given birth or are experiencing chronic pain, stress or grief, more frequent massages are recommended (eg. bi-weekly or weekly). Packages at discounted rates are recommended for those who need more frequent massage sessions.

• What kind of massage should I receive? 

It depends. Before your first session with mama meg’s massage, you will complete a brief online intake form. Prior to your first massage, we will have a brief conversation to explore your range of options. Most clients enjoy a Swedish massage, deep tissue massage or pregnancy massage (if you’re pregnant!). Bottom line, we want to collaborate with you to determine the best path forward for you.

• Should I get a massage if I have a cold or am sick?

No. Please cancel your session if you have a cold or are sick. Receiving a massage can make your symptoms worse and put the massage therapist at risk for getting the same cold or illness that you have. 

• What is included in the session time? 

The session includes time to communicate with the therapist in order to truly customize the massage to your needs. It includes time for you to undress to your level of comfort in a private room, receive a massage, and time for your to dress after the massage.

• Should I arrive early?

Yes, please arrive 5-10 minutes before your scheduled massage time to allow enough time for parking. We have a waiting room, hot water, an assortment of teas, and magazines for your enjoyment. 

• Do I need to completely undress for the massage session? 

Your preference for your state of undress during the massage depends on your comfort level. Some clients prefer to be completely undressed while others prefer to keep their undergarments on. This is up to you. You will undress and dress in the privacy of the massage room.

• Will I be covered during the massage session? 

Yes. You will be covered or draped during the massage so that you can be warm and comfortable throughout the session. The area being worked on will be exposed. No area will be exposed without your consent. Please let the massage therapist know if you are uncomfortable at any point during your massage session.

• Is it OK to eat before a massage session?

A light snack or meal is OK but a heavy meal is not recommended. 

• What should I do during the massage?

Relax. Enjoy. Breathe deeply. Communicate with the therapist about levels of pressure that you would like and/or areas that you'd like the therapist to attend to. 

• What should I DO and NOT DO after the massage session?
  • DO drink lots of water, take an Epsom salt bath, stretch and rest. Soreness is typical for a day or two after a massage session where deep tissues were engaged. 
  • Do NOT pick up anything heavy, drink lots of alcohol, engage in strenuous exercise.
• Can I request anything sensual or sexual for the massage session?

No. These are strictly professional massage therapy sessions. Refer to the ethical standards for more information. Any inappropriate behavior will be reported. 

***Please don't hesitate to ask our therapists any other questions that you may have.***