Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I get a massage?

Almost everyone will enjoy the positive effects from receiving a massage. The benefits are numerous for people of all ages and activity levels. Therapeutic massage feels wonderful and is very healthful. 

How often should I receive a massage?

Because of the various benefits that massage offers, it is unlikely a person could receive too much. Therapeutic massage has a cumulative effect on both soft tissue repair and decreasing stress, therefore regular massage is recommended to achieve the best result. I recommend as often as you can afford, just budget for it and talk to your therapist about package rates or frequent massage programs.

Is all massage the same?

No. Therapists use many different methods, and individual styles vary. Therapists also have different levels of training and talent. Massage is a very personal service and is usually adjusted to suit each client's needs. These needs may change subtly from one session to the next.

Does the gender of the massage therapist make a difference?

The short answer is no. There is a perception that male therapists can give a deeper massage, and in many cases this is true. However, in general, nothing about a therapist's gender will give you a clue about the style or quality of the massage they give.  It’s your massage and whatever gender you are comfortable receiving a massage from should be the one you choose.

Will massage cause any discomfort?

Massaging healthy tissue feels very good. Some deep tissue massage to areas of trauma or inflammation might be uncomfortable, but should never be extremely painful. Trained therapists know how to minimize discomfort while accomplishing the greatest amount of relief.

Can massage really reduce stress?

Absolutely! We all experience tension and stress in many different aspects of our lives, and most people react negatively when under constant pressure. Sometimes we forget just how to relax! Massage provides an opportunity to release tension and repair both physically and mentally.

How may massage lower blood pressure?

First, moving blood through the vascular system prohibits its pooling and adhering to the walls of veins and arteries, which creates an increase in pressure. Continued high levels of stress increase blood pressure, so by relieving this stress blood pressure too may be affected.

How may massage effect the immune response?

Prolonged stress also negatively affects the immune system. Therefore, developing ways to control stress will in turn cause the immune system to function more effectively. The lymphatic system also works very hard all the time to rid the body of toxins, infection and debris such as dead cells. The manual aspect of massage serves to push toxins and debris out of muscle tissue and into the lymph system faster, thereby increasing its efficiency

When is massage not recommended?

People with a history of Thrombosis or Phlebitis should not receive massage due to blood clots breaking free resulting in possible heart attack or stroke. Severe injuries or surgery sites should not be manipulated directly until you have consulted with your doctor.  If you have an acute infectious disease; skin rashes or infections, fever, or recent heart attack, massage is contraindicated.  Cancer patients undergoing radiation and/or chemotherapy should not receive massage without first consulting with their physician

What do I wear while getting a massage?

Clients can be as dressed or undressed, as they feel comfortable.  However, in Nevada they will always be covered with a sheet or draping. Less clothing is usually preferable as the client will be less constricted and the therapist will not have to be concerned with lubricants staining clothes or massage strokes shortened by waistbands, bra straps etc.

What should I avoid when choosing a therapist?

Anyone who makes you feel uncomfortable in any way. If you are unable to relax, your massage will be less effective. Professional therapeutic massage is not sexual, so any therapist making sexual comments or overtures should not be patronized. The best massage is also rarely the least expensive so more factors than price should be considered. Great massage is an interactive experience so you should feel free to ask questions and offer suggestions. Insist on quality!

What is not included in a therapeutic massage?

Sex. Let's get it right out there in the open. We all know that there are tons of people who bill themselves as out-call massage therapists, but the last thing you'll get from them is a real massage. It is pretty obvious from the ads these folks have, and the way they present their businesses, that they are offering sex. They are not to be confused with people who offer legitimate therapeutic massage. These people may have licenses, they may have taken the minimum hours of training to become a professional therapist to get that license, but massage is not what they're selling.

• A Professional Massage Therapist will terminate a session immediately, if you insist on any inappropriate behavior, and you'll be required to pay the full price whether the massage lasted two minutes or an hour.

• If you want something other than a therapeutic massage, try the Sprint yellow pages.  There are 24 pages of listings under "Massage" and you'll probably find something you like.

What do I look like?

This is the question I most hate.  I am a professional, licensed, certified massage therapist that spends hundreds per year for continuing education so I can stay on top of my field.  I am, also, closer to 60 than 50.  If you are more concerned with how your massage therapists looks, than the quality of massage you will be receiving, you do not want a massage from me.  

Will my insurance cover massage?

Some insurance companies cover massage.  However, The Massage Lady does not accept insurance at this time but will give you a receipt to remit to your insurance company.

Do you accept credit cards?

Nope.  Right now it's cash or local, personal checks. 

My thanks to Bill Greer of Bill Greer's Home Page for allowing me to plagiarize parts of his massage FAQ.