FAQs

Massage Therapy in Sherwood Park

Eastgate Physiotherapy and Massage therapy, Sherwood Park answers Frequently asked questions about masage therapy

What kind of conditions and injuries does massage therapy treat?
Massage Therapy can be used for a wide variety of illness and injuries. In general whenever there is any issue with pain, muscle spasm, stiffness or stress, massage therapy can be used.

 What can I expect when I go for a massage appointment?
On your first visit you will complete a confidential health history form. Your therapist will assess and create a treatment plan for you. At this time it is important to inform your therapist if you have any medical conditions or are taking any medications. To fully understand your position your Massage Therapist listens to your concerns and your individual needs as well as other factors that may be contributing to your situation. With your health history information your therapist will develop a treatment plan with you so you receive the appropriate treatment that will help you a return, as much as possible, to your normal activities.

Do I have to disclose all my health conditions on the Health History form for my Massage Therapist?
It is best if you can give an accurate picture of your health and injuries on your health history form. This enables your therapist to design the most appropriate and effective treatment for you

Should I eat before I come for a massage?
It is best to not eat for at least 90 minutes before your massage treatment and only a light meal at that time. The body needs time to digest your food. This is the same caution you would take when you go swimming or exercising.  The digestion process directs the blood flow away from your peripheral tissues and concentrates it on digestive tract.  Massage draws the blood flow to the area tissues being worked on therefore draws the blood away from the digestive tract causing poor digestion and possible discomfort.

Do Massage Therapists have Cancellation Policies?
Yes. To be fair to your massage therapist and other patients awaiting massage therapy, we have a cancellation policy. If you are unable to make your appointment, please provide us with at least 24 hours notice or as soon as possible. The cancellation fee is posted at the clinic.

Do I need a doctors' referral? 
There is no requirement to have a referral to see a Registered Massage Therapist.  Extended health care plans, and insurers may require a referral before you will be covered. You need to check with your policy to see if you need one to be reimbursed for the treatments.

Does Alberta Health Care cover massage therapy?"
Currently there are no Provincial Health plans that cover Therapeutic Massage but many work place or private Extended Health Care Insurance programs have full or partial coverage.

What if I am uncomfortable with my body? Do I have to undress?
Let your therapist know your comfort level. It is possible to work on a client who is dressed.  Direct skin contact is best with an application of oil or lotion. However your Massage Therapist is required to cover/drape you so only to expose the area which they are working on.  So opting wear your clothes is fine, bring clothes that you can get oil on like a bathing suit or shorts and a tank top.

Does the gender of the massage therapist make a difference?
This is an issue of personal preference. Massage therapists are professionals who provide professional service just like medical doctor or nurses.

I bruise easily, can I still get a massage?
It is important to let your massage therapist know (this will be one of the questions on the health history form you will be asked to fill out on your first visit). Massage therapy is not recommended for people who suffer from haemophilia.

Am I expected to talk during the massage?
If you wish to have silence, you should say so at the beginning of the treatment. The therapist may, however, require verbal information pertinent to health findings during the treatment.

After my appointment, is there anything I need to have on hand or anything specific I should do?
Plan for 30 minutes of quiet time right after your treatment. An Epsom salt bath is recommended to soothe and to calm muscles, and enhance the benefits of the massage. It will help alleviate stiffness you may feel the next day, and it is also recommended for use after workouts for the same reason.  Make sure to drink water to keep your tissues hydrated.

Are there any ailments or conditions Massage Therapy is not a recommended treatment?
Yes, you can ask your massage therapist if you have any questions. At the initial assessment, your massage therapist will discuss with you any contra indications or cautions.

How often should I have massage treatments?
A mutual consultation with your Massage Therapist can help you establish a treatment program which fits your lifestyle and physical requirements. Your massage therapist is on your team and is involved with your repair, rejuvenation and in the maintenance of your health. Your choice of RMT assures you that your recommendation for further treatment is being made by a qualified health professional and is made with your preeminent care in mind.

Is one massage therapy treatment enough?
Yes, if you just want to experience massage therapy to relax. However, to have a longer term therapeutic affect one treatment may not be enough.

Take note: massage therapy is most beneficial in both acute and chronic conditions, when used over a series of treatments and then followed up with maintenance or preventive treatments. (Acute conditions are recent, occurring within a week to a month, and can be severe to mild but are sudden in onset. This could describe anything from car accident to a muscular sprain. Chronic conditions are present for several months or years.)