Here are some of the Frequently Asked Questions about Massage Therapy that I hear as a Registered Massage Therapist:

Q.  How long will my massage last?

A.  Good question.  About 50-55 minutes is the usual length of time for a full-body massage.  This is because the therapist must allow time for a few questions, client dressing/undressing, and other incidental tasks (like washing my hands).  Of course, you may request a longer or shorter session as desired.

Q.  What kind of massage do you do?

A.  I am trained and experienced in several styles of massage therapy and will use any combination of them to suit your needs.  In no particular order: Swedish massage, Neuromuscular Therapy, Hot Stone Massage, and Reflexology.

Q.  How often should I have massage therapy?

A.  Another good question.  How often you have massage therapy depends on your goals.  For more information about frequency of massage therapy call me.

Q.  Are you licensed to perform massage therapy?

A.  Absolutely Yes.  I am a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT), registered by the Texas Department of State Health Services, Massage Therapy Board.

Q.  Will you send me your picture?

A.  No.  If you want massage therapy my looks aren't important except to note that I dress in an appropriate and professional manner.

Q.  Does the Massage Therapist expect me to "chat" during the massage?

A.  No.  The decision to "chat" is entirely yours.  Being quiet can enhance your relaxation during the massage and the therapist understands and welcomes that enhancement.  If you wish to chat during the massage, the therapist will probably accommodate you.  During therapeutic massage procedures the therapist may ask you pertinent questions.

Q.  Do I need to be undressed?

A.  No.  It's not absolutely necessary, but for the best results during a full-body massage it's recommended.  You really don't need to worry, most professional therapists "drape" you with a sheet or towel(s), your modesty can and should be preserved.  I use full draping and expose only the body part actually being massaged.

Q.  Even with draping I still would like to leave on my underclothes, is that OK?

A.  Absolutely.  Undress only to your level of comfort.  If the therapist tells you that you MUST take off all clothing, find another therapist.

Q.  Will the massage be painful?

A.  No.  Relaxation massage shouldn't be painful.  You should feel free to let the therapist know if the pressure being used is causing you pain.  You can get great results without pain. 

Q.  Can massage help me with pain from my medical condition?

A.  Yes.  Massage can help to lessen or eliminate pain stemming from a wide range of medical conditions that include fibromyalgia, lupus, myofascial pain syndrome, sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome, tmj pain, migraines, and others.   I also use other methods for pain relief such as Neuromuscular Therapy.  There are some conditions for which massage is contraindicated, make sure to tell your Massage Therapist what condition you're seeking relief for.

Q.  I bruise easily, can I still get a massage?

Q.  Another therapist I went to said that my knots had to be relieved by "digging them out" which was quite painful, is that right?

A.  To my knowledge it's not right.  Knots in muscles, even deeper muscles, can usually be relieved with light or moderate pressure that causes little discomfort.