Massage Therapy FAQS
Common massage questions answered
01
Why should I book a massage?
Sport & Remedial Massage Therapy, also known as Soft Tissue Therapy, is the assessment, treatment and rehabilitation of minor and chronic musculoskeletal conditions. It deals with the soft tissues of the body – muscles, connective tissue/fascia, tendons, and ligaments. Although some musculoskeletal pain or dysfunction helped by remedial massage therapy may be caused by sporting injuries, the benefits can also help relieve symptoms of many day to day problems. Examples of conditions: -Knee pain/Hip pain/Lower back pain -Stiff neck/shoulders -Post surgical -Muscle strains -Joint sprains -Chronic pain/complex persistent cases -Improve ROM to facilitate exercise program -Aches and pains of pregnancy
02
What are the benefits behind massage? Is there any evidence?
Research has shown remedial massage therapy to be effective for pain relief, recovery, flexibility, and performance, and as such it is widely used in sports. It can be beneficial in reducing anxiety and improving sleep. There is also some evidence for its use for symptoms of conditions including autism, pain syndromes, hypertension, autoimmune conditions, breast cancer and problems from ageing. In short, it can help you to feel better which can help you move better. If you move better, you can perform better - whether in your fitness activities or daily life.
03
What techniques are used during the consultation?
Along with sports & remedial massage, soft tissue therapists use a range of neuromuscular techniques like MET, soft tissue release, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, IASTM and Dry Needling to address dysfunction and injuries. Many recipients describe feeling like they ‘float’ out of their session, experiencing more freedom in movement and less sensations of pain.
04
What should I expect within a consultation?
The initial appointment includes a short discussion about your injury, health and exercise history. After establishing treatment goals, and taking your lifestyle and commitments into account, we can plan frequency of treatments, which could be anything from weekly to monthly. Your massage therapist will complete an analysis of posture and joint mobility helps therapists assess any cause and effect of musculoskeletal dysfunction or injury. 'Homework' in the form of stretches and/or simple exercises will usually be given as part of after care advice.
05
How many sessions do I need?
A one-off session could help you to move forward from a niggle, or regular treatment (ideal scenario) can work alongside sessions with other health professionals, e.g. Physio, for longer term rehab. For individuals working towards a sporting event or goal, Sports & Remedial Massage Therapy pairs well with exercise physiology and Pilates to help achieve those goals. It supports strength training and work on improving movement patterning and form, and can address niggles arising from training. Endurance athletes widely use regular massage therapy for its recovery benefits.
06
I am pregnant, can I have a massage?
Specialised pregnancy massage can help alleviate aches and pains of pregnancy, promote relaxation and reduce feelings of anxiety, and can be given during all trimesters. During the session stretches and self massage can be taught. Partner massage, and birth partner and labour massage sessions can be booked, where massage techniques are taught for use throughout pregnancy and during labour. Postnatal massage helps new mothers adjust emotionally and physically to big changes. It can help with muscular tension and encourages relaxation. *Perineal massage is completed by our Women's Health Physiotherapists not massage therapists.
07
What should I do prior to a consultation and what can I expect afterwards?
We recommend that you eat a light meal prior to your session, especially if you would like deep tissue or dry needling. After deep tissue massage and/or dry needling it is common to experience some tenderness. This is normal and should pass within 24-48hours.
