What is massage therapy?
Massage therapy consists primarily of hands-on manipulation of the soft tissues of the body, specifically, the muscles, connective tissue, tendons, ligaments and joints for the purpose of optimizing health (CMTO).
What can I expect when I go for a massage appointment?
If it’s your first time as a client, Amanda will sit down with you to discuss your health history and review your expectations for the massage. Amanda will then conduct orthopedic testing and joint range of motion to determine what’s the cause behind the problem.
During the treatment she will focus on the targeted areas while also providing a full massage treatment, based on your preliminary interview regarding expectations.
After the treatment, Amanda will get a better idea about what’s going on with your body. She will provide home-care recommendations,including stretching and strengthening exercises as well as whether to use hot or cold therapy. You’ll also discuss frequency of future treatments.
What do I wear during the massage?
Depending on that areas being treated, you may or may not need to undress. Wear comfortable clothes and you will have privacy to undress. Throughout your treatment, you will be covered with a blanket or sheet at all times except for the area being treated. Areas to be treated will be discussed prior to treatment.
What conditions does massage therapy treat?
Massage therapy can help alleviate a number of conditions, including:
- Anxiety and depression
- Inflammatory conditions (i.e., arthritis, bursitis)
- Strains and sprains
- Postural dysfunction
- Edema
- Whiplash
- Headaches
- Muscle tension and spasm
- Post-surgical rehabilitation
- Sports injuries
- Tendinitis
- Fibromyalgia
- Stress
Do I have to have a specific condition to have a massage?
Absolutely not! Massage can benefit the injured, ill or stressed but it can also be used for prevention of injury and illness, or simply be provided as an avenue for relaxation. Regular massage helps reduce/eliminate pain, improves joint mobility, improves circulation, improves immune system functioning, increases lymphatic drainage, reduces depression and anxiety, reduces muscle tension and increases body awareness.
Do I need a doctor’s referral?
You can see a massage therapist without a doctor’s referral. Though some extended health care plans may require one in order to receive coverage. Please check your policy to see if you need a referral to be reimbursed for your treatment.
What methods of payment do you accept?
Amanda can accept either cash or cheque. Please note that as a registered massage therapist, you will be given a receipt for the treatment.
Amanda Ennis, RMT 