Massage therapy is a great stress reliever, but it’s important to know what to expect before your first visit.
A massage therapist evaluates your condition and provides relief for chronic pain, acute injuries, and muscle strains. A massage therapist can relieve stress, promote healing, and even give you an extra boost of energy.
Before your first massage session, it’s important to know what to expect from your massage therapist and what to do to prepare yourself for a successful session.
What to Expect from Your Massage Therapist
Your massage therapist will likely ask you a few questions about your health history, treatment goals, and current physical condition. Your massage therapist will also evaluate your body and perform a thorough assessment to determine your best treatment options.
During your first session, you will likely be asked to lie on a massage table or chair and your feet will be placed in a comfortable position.
Your massage therapist will then use his or her hands and knuckles to gently move and knead your muscles, fascia, and other soft tissues. He or she will apply pressure to specific areas in your body, and the goal is to promote circulation, improve muscle flexibility, and promote healing.
What to Expect from Your First Massage Session
A massage therapist is an experienced professional who can provide a variety of massage techniques.
Although your massage therapist may work with a variety of bodywork modalities, a typical massage session will include the following elements:
Swedish massage. The massage therapist uses long strokes and firm, deep pressure to move energy through the body. swedish massage in Montclair, NJ may be performed on the whole body or in specific areas, such as the back or neck.
Trigger-point therapy. The massage therapist uses deep, firm pressure to stimulate a specific area of your body and release tension. The pressure is applied to the specific muscles, fascia, and connective tissue in the targeted area.
Myofascial release. The massage therapist applies deep pressure to specific areas of your body, and then uses stretching, rolling, and even cupping techniques to release tension. This helps your muscles relax and promote circulation.
Deep tissue massage. The massage therapist uses deep, firm pressure to release deep-seated tension and tension-caused pain. The massage therapist will use a variety of techniques, including kneading, rolling, and even percussion to release the pain and tension from your muscles and fascia.