May 2023

Massage therapy can be a welcome breath of fresh air in the spring or at any other time of the year--whenever you decide you would like a session to relax or to help alleviate discomfort. Also, massage can be a perfect gift (certificate or gift card) for Mother's Day! No matter what your health issues--some form of massage usually can be provided. (Check with your MD for specific health conditions and contraindications, and ask your therapist if they are familiar with massage for your specific health issues.)

Questions to know about, to ask your therapist--could be:

1. Do you find the pressure during the massage comfortable--not too light or too deep.? Different therapists often have a default mode for pressure--so be sure the pressure is right for you; or find a massage therapist that more clearly meets those needs.
2. How is the temperature in the massage room--comfortably warm or cool? Ask for the changes you need.
3. Are you comfortable on the table--if not tell the therapist what changes you need. Pillows and bolsters (similar to pillows) are usually provided for support and comfort. Seated massage resting on pillows at a table, or massage in a specialized massage chair or similar apparatus may also be a possibility.
4. How could the therapist best protect your privacy--so you feel that you needs are clearly being addressed? Massage can be done completely clothed if needed. Draping should always be appropriately done, as well, to protect privacy.
5. Do you like aromatherapy scents? Are there scents or lotion components you are allergic to?
6. Do you like music? If you do--is the music the therapist provides pleasing to you? If not--ask your practitioners to switch if possible. Also how is the volume? Volume can be adjusted up or down or turned off all together.
7. How do you feel the massage has helped you? Specific information about relaxation or reduced muscle tension and soreness etc. can assist the therapist in providing an optimum therapeutic experience for you.
8. What would you like to be different in a subsequent session to attempt to promote the most effective  results? The therapist would be likely to try meet your needs, if your requests are safe to do and within the therapist's skill set.
9. What else can your massage therapist do to meet your specific needs for the best possible therapeutic session?

                             Adapted Client Survey ​from--Client Education Handouts for Self-Care. Information for People.