What happens at my first session?

Your first session will begin with an in-depth confidential interview to collect information about you and your lifestyle, including such things as hobbies, previous injuries and daily activities. An assessment into range of motion and levels of discomfort will help build a treatment strategy. Then an individually tailored plan of treatment will be mutually agreed to suit your needs. 

 

Do I need a full assessment?

Not necessarily. If you have chronic injuries/conditions or injuries that keep reoccurring it is best to start with a full assessment including postural assessments. Often the site where the pain is felt is not the point where the pain is caused!

If you want a general massage to help relax, de-stress or relax fatigued muscles then a full assessment may not be necessary.

 

Can I book a straightforward maintenance session?

Yes of course! You will still need to complete the health and wellbeing questionnaire to ensure there are no contradictors to massage. 

 

What should I wear?

Loose fitting shorts and t-shirt are fine. You may be asked to remove items of clothing to allow better treatment but you will NEVER be left exposed or asked to do anything that makes you feel uncomfortable. I pride myself on always communicating clearly and making all my clients feel relaxed and at ease.

 

Do the treatments hurt?

Sports massage and soft tissue techniques sometimes involve applying a deep pressure and can be more invasive than a ‘normal’ massage. This is to get better feedback from the tissue and so provide appropriate and effective treatment. This can occasionally be uncomfortable, but client feedback is essential to gauge that the pressure applied is acceptable. Communication is key and every stage of the process is explained to the client so that they can relax and better understand the treatment. 

 

How frequent do I need to book?

This is hard question to answer. It depends on the condition being treated and the circumstances. Every 4-6 weeks is recommended for maintaining muscle condition, where treating a recent injury may benefit from initial weekly treatment. Everyone’s different and this can be tailored to suit you. Some people only need a couple of sessions. You are under no obligation to book multiple sessions.

 

 

What should I expect post treatment?

You can feel some muscle soreness for 24-48 hours post treatment and, in some cases, localised bruising. This is quite normal and should soon ease, allowing the full benefit of the treatment to be felt.

You may feel thirsty later in the day. This is not uncommon and is due to the toxins and waste products stored in the muscles being flushed through and released into your bloodstream for processing and disposal. It is advisable to rehydrate and rest as you may feel tired and hopefully relaxed!

There is no rush to go! I will always give you plenty of time to compose yourself before getting up and leaving.

You may also be given a program to take home. This would include strengthening and stretching routines to help you between sessions and I’m always happy to offer any advice during this period.

 

What is your cancellation policy?

I currently do not have cancellation policy, instead I rely on my clients good will and giving me plenty of notice, at least 24 hours, if they can’t make their appointment.