What to Expect During the First Massage Therapy Session
Massage therapy can be a little intimidating for those who have never done it before as they remain uncertain about what to expect.
Massage therapy is a popular and viable treatment option with many health benefits for people of all ages. In conjunction with standard treatment options, massage therapy can be critical in relieving stress, elevating mood, expediting healing, and managing pain for several health conditions.
However, the whole process can be a little intimidating for those who have never done it before as they remain uncertain about what to expect. This post discusses everything one can expect during the first massage therapy session to ease any worries.
Meet the massage therapist
After arriving for the session and completing all formalities, the massage therapist discusses the health conditions, recent injuries, desired treatment goals, areas of concern, pain level, and all other factors crucial to the treatment. The therapist will use all the information to create a personalized treatment plan and will discuss the same with each patient. Please ask questions and raise any concerns or issues, as all the information shared is confidential. The therapists also use oils during the treatment. They will also inquire about any allergies or sensitivities to the oils.
Clothing during the therapy
After a thorough assessment and mutual agreement on the treatment plan, the massage therapist will leave the room to give privacy and time to undress and get on the massage table under the sheets. Those who are uncomfortable getting fully undressed can talk to the therapist for a workaround to keep the patient appropriately draped at all times and uncover the sheet from the body part they will treat.
Massage therapy treatment
The therapist may employ different techniques to massage the body parts. They usually start with lighter pressure and increase it gradually while targeting problem areas. Relaxing and soothing music is played in the room throughout the session. Communication is very crucial during the entire session. The whole idea is to make the patient comfortable and relaxed. Let the therapist know if it is too hot or cold, if there is a need to apply more or less pressure, if one wants special attention to certain areas, change the music, or if there is discomfort when certain body parts are touched. The therapists may ask the patient to shift positions during the session. Try to relax during the session to enjoy maximum benefits. The massage duration may range from 30 to 90 minutes.
After the first massage therapy treatment
After the session, the therapist will exit the room to give one time to get dressed. It is normal to experience some soreness post-massage. After exiting the treatment room, one gives feedback about the overall experience. Based on the response and reasons for treatment, the massage therapist may recommend exercises, stretches, or additional massage therapy sessions to get the maximum benefits.
Enjoy the first massage therapy session
Feeling a little nervous before going for the first massage therapy session is natural. But when the expectations are clear, the process becomes much smoother. A trained and certified massage therapy specialist tries to make a person feel comfortable, understand their specific needs, and provide the desired relief and relaxation.
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