If you have never had a massage therapy session before, you may be wondering what to expect. If you need to relieve tension in your muscles stress, or to assist with chronic pain, massage therapy is a good place to experience overall well-being. For patients who visit an osteopath, massage treatment can also assist to help provide enhanced osteopathic care by stimulating circulation, flexibility, and relaxation.
Preparing for Your First Massage
At your first visit, selecting a skilled massage therapist who can tailor sessions to your individual needs is advised. Some therapists specialise in deep tissue massage, sports massage, or relaxation techniques, while others work alongside an osteopath to provide targeted therapeutic relief.
What to Wear and Bring
Wear loose, easy-to-remove garments.
Bring any relevant medical history or doctor’s recommendations, especially if you are working with an osteopath in Kingston or have specific health concerns.
Arrive a few minutes early to complete any necessary paperwork and discuss your goals with your therapist.
The Initial Consultation
At the beginning of your appointment, your massage therapist will discuss your concerns, medical history, and areas of discomfort. If you have been referred by an osteopath, be sure to share any notes or instructions they have provided. The therapist will then determine the best techniques to use based on your needs.
Understanding the Different Types of Massage
Depending on your goals, your therapist may recommend one of the following types of massage in Kingston:
- Swedish Massage – Calming, relaxing massage that breaks tension and stimulates circulation.
- Deep Tissue Massage – Delves deeper into the muscle to break painful tension and deep knots.
- Sports Massage – Most suitable for injured athletes or women who want improved performance.
- Trigger Point Therapy – Works only on the most likely knots in the muscle to refer pain elsewhere.
If you are also under osteopathic care, your massage therapist will incorporate manoeuvres that will complement your treatment from your osteopath, i.e., joint mobilisation or myofascial release.
During the Massage Session
Your massage therapist will get you settled once you are already positioned on the massage table and place you first prior to starting. They will likely put some lotion or oil to work on your skin so their hands can just glide smoothly along your skin. The next things you will be subjected to while in the session:
- Firm to light touch, depending on the massage.
- A concentration on areas of tension when you experience pain or spasm.
- Open communication if there is too little or too much, inform them.
If you are a patient of an osteopathic physician, your massage therapist will concentrate on areas of the body that require particular attention to enhance your osteopathic program.
After the Massage: What to Expect
- Drink loads of water in an attempt to flush your toxins.
- Get some rest for two hours or so don't waste any time.
- Stretch patiently in an attempt to keep your muscles loose.
Wrapping Up
Your initial visit to a massage therapist should leave you relaxed and connected to your body. If you view a massage therapist as a stress-reliever or if you are visiting one as part of osteopathic care, frequent visits will lead to overall well-being and health. Our osteopaths uses gentle massage techniques to ensure better mobility, flexibility and less pain. Contact us today to learn more about our osteopathy treatments.
