The time that we spend together is a partnership, and that starts with good communication. At your first session we will go over your health history and create a treatment plan for both the time we’re working together, and when you’re working on your own. Sessions with an orthopedic or medical massage therapist have different goals. Because of this, our treatment plans are structured differently than what you might expect from a spa or relaxation massage. You might be unclothed under the sheets or you may be asked to come in loose shorts and a sports bra to more easily incorporate stretching and other active treatments.
We always start with assessment.
This assessment consists of everything from how you sit, stand, move, and how all of these things tie into how well you understand what’s going on with your body. This is body awareness, and it’s an important part of your treatment. The primary goal of the assessment is to best identify the source of the dysfunction, or the pain, so the treatment can be best targeted.
More than just hands on. Communication is key.
Whether it’s the first session or the fifth, hands on treatment allows me to continue to evaluate the quality of the tissue while at the same time treating the dysfunction that needs to be addressed. We will start with light pressure then gradually work deeper. This is where communication becomes important. The more you tell me what you’re feeling during treatment, the more I can adjust the technique to be most effective. The goal is for you to be as comfortable as possible.
Relaxation is part of your treatment.
Relax your muscles and your mind. Tightening up by contracting or hardening your muscles during the massage is counterproductive. Let me know if this is happening. I may need to adjust the massage technique I am using and may also be able to help you relax the affected area. If you find your thoughts are racing during the massage, one way to be more body-centered and to quiet your mind is to focus on the treatment and how the touch feels. If you’re unable to relax due to the environment, e.g., room temperature, music volume, lighting, etc., please don’t hesitate to tell me. The more you can focus on the treatment, the more effective it will be.
There will always be homework.
We are a team. We are both motivated to help you heal faster, feel better. I can’t do it alone. Once we’ve worked together, I will teach you stretches and exercises to continue to improve when we’re not working together. I want to create a plan, teach you the techniques you can do on your own, so that you don’t need me.
Do your stretches, and your exercises, and your hydrotherapy, and your home care, and & you see where I am going here right? Although it would be fun to follow you around, give you treatment and remind you of your therapeutic exercises all day long, I can’t. Our time together is very short.
Give your body time to adjust.
Don’t get up too quickly and do allow for some open, quiet time after your massage session. If you’re dizzy or light headed after the massage, do not get off the table too fast. It also may take a little time to integrate or absorb the results of the massage session.