Question 1

This is my first massage.  What should I expect?

Accepted Answer

Many people are uneasy or afraid before their first massage. Here are  some guidelines that may reduce the anxiety and help you get the most  from your first therapeutic massage session.    Your first appointment should begin with the therapist gathering a complete medical history from you. This will usually entail a health questionnaire  and an interview. On this questionnaire will be a space for areas that you want massaged, as well as, the areas you do not want massaged. We understand that some questions may seem unnecessary; however, to ensure that you receive the best and safest treatment, please answer each question thoroughly and honestly. Remember, all information you provide to us, both verbal and written, will be held in the strictest of confidence.  For a full-body massage, you will be asked to disrobe to your comfort level. Undressing will take place in private and a sheet will be provided for draping. Your therapist will only uncover the area being worked in turn, allowing for your privacy and modesty at all times. At no point will your genitals or breasts (women) be exposed, touched or massaged.    Your massage will take place in a quiet, peaceful, healing atmosphere. Your therapist will ask for your feedback during you session. Please feel free to tell your therapist anything that may make the session more beneficial or comfortable for you.

Question 2

What is a massage?

Accepted Answer

Massage is the manipulation of soft tissue by stroking, kneading, rubbing or rocking. Massage is typically done with the bare hands with the aid of a lotion or oil to avoid pain or cause injury. A therapist will typically avoid areas of the skin with rashes, tumors or areas that are extremely sensitive. The breast (women) and genitals are never massaged and requesting any type of sexual or illicit act will terminate your session immediately. If this is your first massage, make sure you explain any additional boundaries or issues you may not want your therapist to cross.

Question 3

What types of massage do you specialize in?

Accepted Answer

At Point of Origin, our specialities include Neuromuscular Massage Therapy; Pregnancy and Postpartum Massage; and Pain Management and Injury Recovery. After a thorough health history, we utilize a customized approach to your appointment which may integrate several different modalities or types of massage.  There is no need to request a specific type of massage.  You can find more information about all the types of massage in the Treatments section under the Home page.

Question 4

Who benefits from a massage?

Accepted Answer

Anyone who has stress in their lives; sore shoulders, neck, knees, feet; anyone with back pain, sciatica, or leg pain; athletes; pregnant women; new parents, both moms and dads - parenthood is very stressful; doctors; lawyers; garbage collectors; housewives; computer technicians; and anyone  in between. Everyone can benefit from a therapeutic massage.

Question 5

Can a child have a massage?

Accepted Answer

From the very young to the very old, everyone can benefit from terapeutic massage. However, Point of Origin requires that anyone under the age of 18 years old must have a parent or guardian present during all aspects of the massage session.

Question 6

What are the benefits of massage?

Accepted Answer

Relaxes the body Reduces chronic pain Increases blood and lymph circulation Loosens tightmuscles Stretches connective tissue Aids in emliniation of metabolic waste Improves muscle and skin tone Relieves muscle cramps and spasms Speeds recovery from injury​​​​​ Relieves headaches (even migraines)  Reduces swelling  Increases flexibility and range of motion  Alleviates mental stress Reduces anxiety  Slows respiration  Promotes better sleep And many more...

Question 7

Where will the massage take place?

Accepted Answer

Your massage will take place in a quiet, peaceful, healing atmosphere on a table specially designed for massage. Soft music will be played to aid your relaxation.

Question 8

What type of clothing should I wear for my massage?

Accepted Answer

Therapeutic massage is typically performed with the client undressed; however, if you are at all uncomfortable with being undressed you should wear loose fitting comfortable clothing. Regardless of your state of undress, all areas not being worked on will be draped at all times.

Question 9

Will I be covered during my massage?

Accepted Answer

All areas of your body not being worked on will be draped or covered. Your modesty and privacy will always be protected. At no time will your breasts (women) or genitals be exposed.

Question 10

What parts of my body will be massaged?

Accepted Answer

You and your therapist will discuss your condition and the desired outcome of your session. This will help in determining what areas of your body will be massaged. A typical full body massage will include massaging your head, neck, back, shoulders, arms, hands, legs, knees and feet. At no time will your breasts (women) or genitals be touched or massaged.

Question 11

What should I do during my massage?

Accepted Answer

Relax and be comfortable. Many people just close their eyes and completely relax. Other people prefer to talk through their sessions. Your therapist will likely ask for feedback during specific points in your session to better meet your needs. Typically, there is no need to assist your therapist. She will let you know when it is time for you to turn over.

Question 12

How will I feel after my massage?

Accepted Answer

Most people feel very relaxed after a massage. Some, relieved of a chronic pain, feel exhilarated and free. People who have massage regularly typically have more energy and a better awareness of their bodies and how they use them.

Question 13

What should I do after my massage?

Accepted Answer

Your therapist will give you specific instructions; however, typically, you should increase your water intake for 24 hours after a massage. Water will help your kidneys flush out the metabolic waste and toxins from your system. It is preferable, if you can take a few hours after your massage, to rest and relax.

Question 14

How often should I have massage?

Accepted Answer

Most people get massage twice per month. Depending on your condition, your therapist may recommend from one massage per week to once per month.

Question 15

Can I have massage while I am pregnant?

Accepted Answer

Yes, most pregnant women can benefit from therapeutic massage. If you have had any complications or contraindications you will be required to obtain written approval for massage therapy from your doctor or midwife.  You should verify that your therapist has a national certification in pregnancy massage.

Question 16

Do I need to see my provider before having a massage?

Accepted Answer

If you have any health concers or questions about the safety of massage therapy, please see your healthcare provider before seeing a massage therapist.  Massage is not a substitute for addressing your health care concerns with your medical professional.

Question 17

Can a massage therapist diagnose or treat illnesses?

Accepted Answer

Massage practitioners do not diagnose illnesses, disease, or any physical or mental disorder, nor do they prescribe medical or chiropractic treatment or pharmaceuticals. Furthermore, massage is not a substitute for professional  medical or chiropractic heath care.

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