What to Expect

Your first neuromuscular/ massage session will last 1-1/2 – 1-3/4 hours. Future sessions may be 1 or 1-1/2 hours, as desired and perhaps as recommended based on your particular needs and goals.

#1. Pre-Session Consultation

Your session will begin with a comprehensive consultation and review of your symptoms, medical history and lifestyle.  We will discuss your current situation, what brings you here today, which areas of your body are of greatest concern, past issues that may contribute to how you feel now, and other information that may offer insight into your health. We will also address any questions or concerns you may have.

Most importantly, we will explore your needs, goals and expectations for your session today, and for future meetings. With this framework, we can create a bodywork plan that addresses these issues, and hopefully provides an experience of healing and nourishment and balance for you in your body.

#2. Postural Analysis and Evaluation

Next, I will observe, palpate and measure the position of your body in space –  both standing and lying down, noting areas of effective and harmonious postural aspects, as well as asymmetry and/or imbalance. To make this process most effective, it is helpful to see your skin and other bony landmarks and to wear gym shorts, sports bra or bathing suit for the evaluation.

We will then discuss the results, any patterns noted, and the likely contributing, if not causative factors for any pain issues you may experience. Your questions and expression of concerns are welcome.

#3. During Session

While massage in its various forms is the primary modality used to address your particular issues, at times we will include movement during the session and active participation by the client. This can significantly enhance the process of freeing up the tissues and also improve your results. Further, we may re-measure you during the session to determine whether your posture has changed as a result of some techniques we have used. There is also ample time for quiet and relaxation.

To facilitate these processes, I often work with clients partly clothed. You will still be draped with the top sheet during your massage session with only the part of the body being worked on uncovered, ensuring that your personal space is respected at all times. Areas massaged will be dependent on the course of treatment.

#4. Post session: Next Steps and Treatment Plan

After the massage, I will leave the room so you can get changed. Take your time getting up. If you sit or stand too quickly you may feel lightheaded or dizzy as massage can sometimes lower blood pressure.

Drink extra water after a massage to help flush out the toxins released during the massage. Allow for some open, quiet time after your massage session if possible. Sometimes one needs a little time to integrate or absorb the results of the massage session or may need some “re-entry” time.

We will review what we did during the session, and how you experienced it. We will then create a treatment plan to meet your health and wellness goals for the both the immediate future and the long term, and can then schedule your next appointment. The therapeutic effects of massage are cumulative, and regular sessions are recommended, particularly when addressing pain issues.