Will my auto insurance cover my massage?
Oregon law requires that all auto insurance companies provide personal injury protection benefits (PIP) when issuing your insurance policy. The Oregon PIP benefit pays for medical bills as well as ongoing lost wages, medication, and care in your home while recovering from an auto accident regardless of who is at fault. At a minimum, the state of Oregon requires the coverage of medical costs for up to one year or $15,000.  A prescription or referral from a primary care physician (MD) or chiropractor (DC) is all that is required for PIP to cover massage therapy.  It is your legal right to choose the Oregon Licensed Massage Therapist with whom you would like to work!

Are there different kinds of massage and bodywork?
There are many modalities of massage. The various techniques use different strokes, including basic rubbing strokes, rocking movement, posture and movement re-education, application of pressure to specific points, and more. We can discuss which methods may be most appropriate for you at your first appointment. Visit our Massage Services page to find out more.

Where will my massage or bodywork session take place?
Your massage or bodywork session will take place in a warm, comfortable, quiet room. Soft music may be played to help you relax. You will lie on a table especially designed for your comfort.

Do I need to be completely undressed?
Most massage and bodywork techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed; however, it is entirely up to you what you want to wear. You should undress to your level of comfort. You will be draped during the entire session.

Will the therapist be in the room while I disrobe?
The therapist will leave the room while you undress, relax on table, and cover yourself with a soft sheet.

Will I be covered up during my session?
You will be properly draped at all times to keep you warm and comfortable. Only the area being worked on will be exposed.

What parts of my body will be massaged?
This is something you will discuss with your masseuse prior to your first session. Your therapist will also review any notes from your doctor or chiropractor. A typical full-body session will include work on your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck, and shoulders.

Will I experience discomfort after a massage?
Many people report pleasant sensations accompanied by a comfortable at ease attitude after a massage. Some report that they have more energy and feelings of euphoria. Massage assists in draining off stress far below the pain threshold. People who have received a massage for the first time often report slight soreness in muscle groups after the session. Muscles that are in spasm or have maintained a very tight muscle tone over a long period may resist relaxing at first. Change in the muscle tone resulting from physical manipulation, can feel awkward at first. Sometimes a muscle group is so tight that sensation is minimized. After a massage the sensation sometimes recovers and alerts us to the previously hidden sensation in that area. Sensation of heat or “vibration” can sometimes be felt in the muscles as you experience the contrast between tightness and relaxation.

I just received a massage and I feel sick, is this normal? Some people report a flu-like feeling or ache all over after a massage. This is due to movement of toxins which have lain dormant within the lymphatic system and muscles. Toxins are pushed off into the lymphatic fluid,which has the consistency of aloe plant gel, and flushed out of our bodies. Massage offers the body an opportunity to move these unwanted by-products.

Why do I feel sleepy after my massage?
Feelings of sleep or deep relaxation are common. It can be helpful to listen to these body signals, rest, and move slowly. Emotions can surface during or after a massage. Muscle tension is one of the body’s creative ways of protecting us from our own feelings as well as others’ attitudes and feelings. Be gentle with yourself.

Is there anything I can do after my massage to further relax sore areas?
Soaking in a hot bath with two or more cups of Epsom salts can ease the achy muscles brought to awareness by massage. It is best to soak the day of the massage. If you do not enjoy soaking in the bathtub, soak a towel in Epsom salts water, heat in microwave and drape over the sore area.

Please contact us if you have any additional questions, or if you would like to schedule an appointment.