What happens at a deep tissue massage session?
Our massage rooms are equipped with a comfortable massage table, linen and towels and adjustable lighting and we play relaxing music, unless you’d prefer not. The area that requires treatment will be examined by your therapist while you are clothed. Then the planned treatment will be discussed with you, and your therapist will leave the room while you get undressed and lie on the massage table, under a sheet. (Depending on the area to be treated, you may be asked to undress to your underwear, but if you're not comfortable removing that much clothing, please let your therapist know and they’ll adjust the treatment to suit). The process of massage itself involves kneading, rubbing, pressing, or patting different muscle groups. If your masseur needs you to change position and you have fallen asleep, they will gently wake you. Some treatments may require you to do some movement while you are being massaged, but this will be discussed before the start of the treatment.
Does a deep tissue massage hurt?
Both deep tissue and sports massage generally cause a degree of discomfort, as the therapist is working at breaking down muscle scarring, adhesions or ‘knots’. Some areas will be more sensitive than others, depending on what's happening with the muscle, so it's important that you give regular feedback to your therapist with regards to the pressure being applied. The discomfort should never be unbearable. You may feel some soreness after the massage, and this can be alleviated by applying either ice or a heat pack. Your therapist will advise you on this.
Is it safe to have a deep tissue message while I am pregnant?
It is safe to have a deep tissue massage during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, as long as high-risk areas are avoided. Massage involves different strokes and techniques, so always discuss these with your therapist in advance. We offer special pre-natal massage, but if you have a specific sports or accident-related injury for which you require deep tissue massage, this can be done too, within appropriate safety parameters.
How long does a deep tissue massage session last?
A typical deep tissue massage session usually lasts between 30 and 90 minutes, depending on the treatment required. An hour is considered the standard for a full body massage; however, some therapists may offer shorter or longer sessions depending on the area to be treated. Your first appointment will take slightly longer, as your masseur will take a medical history and discuss any recent injury and related pain issues with you in detail.
How often should I have a massage?
For maximum benefit, you should consider deep tissue massage regularly. Your therapist will generally suggest a treatment plan that may cover several sessions. After that, it is recommended that clients have a "maintenance" massage once a month, to help keep your body flexible and maintain optimum performance.
What should I wear to a massage appointment?
You will usually be asked to remove your outer clothes before a massage begins, so choose something that’s easy to slip in and out of (though if you come for a massage straight from work, that’s OK too). You will always be covered up, for both privacy and warmth, with the only area exposed being the area that is being massaged - and that will never involve private areas. Your therapist will tell you what they are doing at each stage.
