Where will my acupuncture or bodywork session take place?
What dress code is recommended for acupuncture and massage?
Will the practitioner be present when I disrobe?
Will I be covered during the session?
What parts of my body will be treated?
What will the acupuncture, massage or bodywork feel like?
Are there different kinds of acupuncture, massage and bodywork?
What should I do during the acupuncture, massage or bodywork session?
How will I feel after the acupuncture, massage or bodywork session?
What are the benefits of acupuncture, massage and bodywork?
Are there any medical conditions that would make acupuncture, massage or bodywork inadvisable?
Where will my acupuncture 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.
What dress code is recommended for acupuncture and massage?
For acupuncture, you can wear anything you feel comfortable in. It is recommended that you wear something comfortable, and if possible, loose pant legs in order to facilliate access to acupoints on the calves and knees, if needed. In the case clothing is restrictive, alternate points will be selected, or the patient will be offered a towel and/or cotton gown.
Shiatsu and traditional Thai massage are performed with the patient fully clothed. Loose, comfortable clothing is recommended. Loose pants and shirts make the treatment optimal, and help to make deep stretches easy on the patient.
For cupping, access to the skin is necessary, however, the patient can remain clothed and move the shirt to their comfort level. The bottom of the shirt can be moved upwards to access the skin on the back, or the neckline can be moved down. Again, it is up to the patient's comfort level.
Gua Sha, like cupping, is best performed on the skin; however it can also be successfully performed over the clothing.
Most Swedish massage techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed; however, it is entirely up to you what you want to wear. You can always feel free undress to your level of comfort. You will always be properly draped during the entire session.
Will the practitioner be present when I disrobe?
The practitioner will leave the room while you undress, relax onto the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet or towel.
Will I be covered during the 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 treated?
It depends. Acupuncture can be applied to the scalp, ear, face, neck, arms, legs, back or shoulders, depending on the condition.
A typical full-body massage, shiatsu or tui na session will include work on your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck, and shoulders.
Areas that will not be treated include areas of active skin irritation or inflammation, such as psoriasis and eczema, et al; however, other areas of the body may be safely treated.
If the patient does not want a certain area to be treated, the practitioner will select other points or locations to treat.
It is always recommended that the patient feel free to request certain areas to be treated; for instance, if the patient loves foot massage, it is recommended that the patient please let the practitioner know at the beginning of the session to allow as much time as possible to address these concerns.
What will the acupuncture, massage or bodywork feel like?
Acupuncture is a technique using sterilized, fine filiform needles inserted into the body at precisely prescribed depths. The acupuncturist has been trained and practices to provide the most painless needling possible. However, some patients may still experience some degree of discomfort. It is important to recognize the difference between the sensation of excruciating pain versus something termed, "de qi" sensation. This is the often experienced sensation that can be described as dull, achy, heavy or mild discomfort. I practice to provide painless acupuncture, and if you are particularly sensitive to needles, I will make sure to respect your pain tolerance.
Sports acupuncture and trigger point techniques may in some cases, but not all, a stronger needling technique. Patient might report a stronger de qi sensation, but again, there is a difference in a tolerable amount of pain versus pain that causes harm. In no instance is the treatment aimed at harming the patient; these treatments are designed to eliminate pain, and bring the body back into balance. Sensitive patients can also effectively benefit from these treatments by the use of thinner and fewer needles.
Shiatsu and Tui Na use a combination of many different types of manipulations in order to bring the body into balance. Pressure applied using the palms, thumbs, and fingertips is applied along acupuncture meridians and points, much like acupuncture without the needles. Depending on the treatment, patients report feeling more balanced, energized and invigorated; or, very relaxed and drowsy. The experience relies on the patient, and the style of treatment indicated. Shiatsu and Tui Na may be indicated for either internal or external disharmony, such as headaches, gastrointestinal or gynecological concerns, or orthopedic aches and pains. Massage oil is rarely used and the patient can always request no oil during the treatment. If oil is used, it will be used sparingly on specific ares that might need extra lubrication to avoid excessive friction.
A relaxing Swedish massage is often a baseline for clients. In a general Swedish massage, your session may start with broad, flowing strokes that will help calm your nervous system and relax exterior muscle tension. As your body becomes relaxed, pressure will gradually be increased to relax specific areas and relieve areas of muscular tension. Often, a light oil or lotion is used to allow your muscles to be massaged without causing excessive friction to the skin. The oil also helps hydrate your skin.
You should communicate immediately if you feel any discomfort so that another approach may be taken. Acupuncture, massage and bodywork are most effective when your body is not resisting.
Are there different kinds of acupuncture, massage and bodywork?
There are numerous types of massage and bodywork; various techniques utilize 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 and enjoyable for you.
What should I do during the acupuncture, massage or bodywork treatment?
Prior to your appointment date, feel free to ask the practitioner any questions about the technique or the upcoming session. During your treatment, please make yourself comfortable. The practitioner will either gently move you or tell you what is needed throughout the session (such as lifting your arm). Many people just close their eyes and completely relax, communicating if/when they need more or less pressure, another blanket, or anything else relevant to the session. If you have any questions regarding the session or about the particular technique you are receiving, feel free to ask.
How will I feel after the acupuncture, massage or bodywork session?
Most people feel very relaxed. Some experience freedom from long-term aches and pains developed from tension or repetitive activity. After an initial period of feeling slowed down, people often experience increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity which can last for days.
What are the benefits of acupuncture, massage and bodywork?
Acupuncture, massage and bodywork can help release chronic muscular tension and pain, improve circulation, increase joint flexibility, reduce mental and physical fatigue and stress, promote faster healing of injured muscular tissue, improve posture, and reduce blood pressure. Acupuncture, massage and bodywork are also known to promote better sleep, improve concentration, reduce anxiety and create an overall sense of well-being.
Are there any medical conditions that would make acupuncture, massage or bodywork inadvisable?
Yes. That's why it's imperative that, before you begin your session, the practitioner asks general health questions. It is very important that you inform the practitioner of any health problems or medications you are taking. If you are under a doctor's care, it is strongly advised that you receive a written recommendation for acupuncture, massage or bodywork prior to any session. Depending on the condition, approval from your doctor may be required.
