Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ: FAQ

How should I prepare for my first treatment?

Prior to your first appointment, you will receive an email with your intake form and you will fill it out. This saves a lot of time! If you are using any type of insurance, please bring your doctor's prescription and all insurance information with you. It is preferred that these are copies I can keep.
Hydrate! Hydrated muscles are more receptive to the massage and easier to work on. Don't eat less than 1 hour prior to the appointment and use the restroom before we start.
Finally, RELAX!!

What should I expect from my first session?

At the first appointment we will go over your medical history and your massage goals. At the beginning of each session we will discuss your massage goals and treatment plan.

After our discussion, I will leave the room so that you can get undressed to your comfort level. You will then get on the table under the blanket and top sheet. I will tell you whether you will start face up with your head on the table or face down with your face in the face cradle. I will then knock before coming in.

The table is heated and I will use warm towels as well.

Do I need to get naked?

Yes, kinda. You will be covered by a sheet and a blanket with only the areas of the body being worked on uncovered at a time. You will get undressed to your comfort level. Some people wear shorts, others remove their underwear, and some leave their underwear on. It is best to not wear pants, shirt or bra, but these can all be worked around if that's what your comfort level is.

Do I need to shave for my appointment?

No. Shaving is not necessary. Honestly, we pay no attention to it. We're focused on your muscles. If shaving makes you feel more comfortable, do it.

Should I shower before coming in?

No, not necessarily. It is courteous and appreciated if you shower after working out before coming in. A sweaty body doesn't mix well with the massage cream or oil.

Will the massage hurt?

There can be areas of tenderness, especially if you have an injury. It should not hurt. The massage is under your control. If the pressure is too light or too firm, tell me and I'll adjust. You can be sore for a couple days after depending on how long it has been since your last massage, how you handle your aftercare, if it's your first massage, or if it was a treatment massage.

What do I do during the massage?

Breathe! Relax!

During the massage, it is crucial that you breathe! Don't hold your breath if it's uncomfortable. Your muscles relax on your exhale.

Communicate! This doesn't mean you have to chat during the massage, it means let me know if something hurts, is uncomfortable, you need firmer or lighter pressure, you feel like I need to use more or less cream, if the table is too hot or too cold, etc. I don't know if things need to change, unless you tell me. And if you want to chat, I'm good with that! It's your massage.

What do I do after the massage?

When the massage is finished, I will step out of the room so that you can get dressed. When I leave the room, take a minute or two to take a few deep breaths, slowly sit up and let your legs dangle off the side of the table for a few seconds before getting up. Get dressed and I will return with some water.

If you can, just relax the rest of the day after the massage. Hydrate! This will help your muscles heal and decrease the chance of next day tenderness. Ice will also help with any tenderness.

Do you take insurance?

I bill PIP (auto) first party claims and L&I claims. I am not in-network with any health insurance. I can provide a Superbill for you to submit to your insurance for possible reimbursement. It is your responsibility to know your coverage/benefits.

Please see the additional information section for further details.