Massage Therapists Near Me

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FAQs:

What Does a Massage Therapist Do?

Massage Therapists are generally employed at massage clinics, spas, and salons to provide rejuvenating and relaxing massages to clients. Massage Therapists maintain knowledge of human anatomy and the musculoskeletal system so they can effectively target points of tension in a client’s body and ease the symptoms of physical stress. They use varying amounts of pressure to improve circulation and target tense or knotted muscles. Massage Therapists communicate with clients about their comfort level and what areas they would like to focus on, setting clear expectations for what areas of muscle and tissue they plan to address.

What is Massage Therapy Used for?

Massage therapy is used to help manage a health condition or enhance wellness. It involves manipulating the soft tissues of the body. Massage has been practiced in most cultures, both Eastern and Western, throughout human history, and was one of the earliest tools that people used to try to relieve pain.

What are the Risks of Massage Therapy?

The risk of harmful effects from massage therapy appears to be low. However, there have been rare reports of serious side effects, such as blood clots, nerve injuries, or bone fractures. Some of the reported cases have involved vigorous types of massage, such as deep tissue massage, or patients who might be at increased risk of injury, such as elderly people.

How Much Does a Massage Cost?

Prices vary greatly for massages in the United States. A 60-minute massage is usually $60 to $150. Most therapists will expect a 15 to 20 percent tip on top of this. However, some places don’t accept gratuity.

These types of massages may cost more than a basic massage:

- aromatherapy

- hot stone

- prenatal

- sports

- therapeutic, like craniosacral and myofascial release

You can check out a massage school in your area or find a massage therapist who works at home to find massages at a more reasonable cost. Insurance sometimes covers massage therapy if you can show it’s being used to treat a medical condition. Sometimes, insurance companies will cover massage therapy if it’s part of chiropractic care.

Does Insurance Cover Massage Therapy?

With many people turning to massage therapy as a medical treatment, it seems that health insurance should cover massages. However, not all policies do. For example, Medicare does not cover massage therapy, so you will likely be responsible for 100% of the costs if you seek this treatment. Even if your health insurance provides coverage, there may still be limitations.

The definition of massage therapy may vary, depending on the insurer. That definition of massage, and the reason you’re getting one, will likely determine whether insurance will cover it. If massage treatment isn’t covered in your policy, be sure to ask about alternative options. It’s also a good idea to discuss them with your doctor.  If you are eligible for services from osteopaths, chiropractors, occupational therapists, and physical therapists who also use massage techniques, these visits may be covered by your insurance.

There is no standard requirement for insurance companies to reimburse expenses for massage. Massage therapy may be covered:

1. When the massage is considered medically necessary and/or fits the definition and criteria of coverage given by the insurer.

2. If the massage fits into the criteria of a “habilitative or habilitation” treatment, it may be covered by health insurance as an essential health benefit. Talk with your doctor and your insurance company to be sure. 

The best way to find out whether massage therapy is covered is by asking your insurance company directly.

How Much Do You Tip a Massage Therapist?

In general, the 20% rule applies to tipping your massage therapist. So, if you’re wondering how much to tip for a $100 massage, you’d want to tip $20. If you’re considering how much to tip for a 60-minute massage (that costs $100) – you’d still tip $20. However, generosity is generally very appreciated. You’re really paying for your health and wellness, so (tipping) becomes a bigger conversation. As you’re considering how much to tip massage therapists, it’s also good to keep in mind the vast range of rates that different massage therapists might charge. For instance, a 90-minute massage at a high-end spa might be $300, whereas the same service at a popular massage chain might be $150. In that scenario, the massage therapist at the chain would get $30 less of a tip.

Is Massage Therapy Good For Scoliosis Pain?

Particular attention was paid to massage therapy for its ability to reduce scoliosis-related chronic back pain. A competent massage therapist can use a combination of massage strokes, continuous pressing, positioning, and stretching to aid in muscle balance of the back and body and it reduces scoliosis symptoms. Although scoliosis massage treatment can not address the cause at the bottom of the patient, medical research has found that scoliosis pain and other symptoms may provide temporary relief. The cranial sacral treatment and the deep tissue massage have two main types of massages that can help. Obviously, there are different opinions about which type of scoliosis massage is best — your experience may differ.

Is Massage Therapy for Everyone?

Massage therapy may be beneficial for anyone but has been noted to help those who have various conditions like cancer, heart disease, stomach problems, and fibromyalgia. You should make sure you talk to your therapist about any medical issues prior to your first session.

How Often Should You Get a Massage?

A massage is a great tool for relieving stress, improving mood, and increasing the overall quality of life and productivity. You’ll often feel better for a full week before you’ll start to notice the need for a return visit unless you are dealing with pain or injury. Your tension headaches will disappear, your energy will increase, and your mental health will improve. Is there such a thing as too many massages when you have benefits like this?

Actually, you can get massaged too frequently. Once a week is the most you should go unless you are dealing with pain or high-intensity sports. Between you and your therapist, you’ll be able to determine the best frequency because your body’s response is a large part of this determination.

You should go at least once per month, but as often as twice per week in severe pain situations. The longer you wait though, the more often you’ll start the process of loosening up your muscles because they tense up if you don’t go often enough. Try different techniques, such as deep tissue massage and stress massage depending on your needs.

When your body starts to feel stiff and sore, it’s telling you that it’s time for a massage again, but the type of massage you may need could vary depending on your body’s needs.

How Long Do The Benefits of Massage Last?

Everyone has a different body type making it difficult to predict how long the benefits of massage will last. However, there are some external factors that could help us determine how long the benefits will last. The benefits last differently for different people depending on the life they live and the type of massage they get. For example, if you live a stressful and hectic life, then the benefits won’t last long as compared to someone who lives a relatively stress-free life. On average, the benefits of massage can last up to a month or as little as 1 day. On average, most people notice the benefits for about a week. This is one of the reasons it’s recommended that you get a massage on a regular basis. If you are trying to treat a medical condition through massage, then regular massage can go a long way. A study revealed that for patients with osteoarthritis, regular massages can not only reduce pain but also aid in its treatment.

What is Massage Therapy?

Performed by a licensed massage therapist, massage therapy involves using different pressures, movements, and techniques to manipulate muscles and other soft tissues in the body. With the goal of slowing down your nervous system, massage therapy can be used to release stress and tension, provide relief from symptoms, heal injuries, and support wellness.

6 Things to Know About Massage Therapy for Health Purposes

A lot of the scientific research on massage therapy is preliminary or conflicting, but much of the evidence points toward beneficial effects on pain and other symptoms associated with a number of different conditions. Here are six things you should know about massage therapy for health purposes.

1. Evidence suggests that massage therapy may be useful for some pain conditions such as low-back pain and chronic neck pain. However, research on massage for headaches is preliminary and only somewhat promising.

2. Research has suggested that at least for the short-term, massage therapy for cancer patients may reduce pain. Evidence has suggested that massage therapy may also promote relaxation and boost mood in people with cancer.

3. A recent review of the scientific literature concluded that massage therapy may help to reduce depression. However, a 2013 review found there is not enough evidence to determine if massage helps pregnant mothers with depression.

4. A 2010 review concluded that massage therapy may help temporarily reduce pain, fatigue, and other symptoms associated with fibromyalgia, but the evidence is not definitive. The authors of the review noted that it is important that the massage therapist not cause pain.

5. Several studies on massage therapy in preterm infants have been conducted to determine if therapeutic massage provides any benefits. A 2010 review of the scientific literature suggested that massaging preterm infants using moderate pressure may improve weight gain. However, a 2013 review determined that there is not enough evidence to know if massage benefits healthy infants who are developing normally.

6. Massage therapy appears to have few risks when performed by a trained practitioner. However, massage therapists should take some precautions for certain health conditions. You should talk with your healthcare providers to determine if massage therapy is safe for you.

Types of Massage Therapy

Massages come in all shapes and sizes. Here are some of the offerings you might find on a massage therapy menu.

Swedish massage

A Swedish massage is a classic go-to for major relaxation. Swedish massage is typically a full-body massage that uses a gentle touch. It’s a good pick for people new to massages. It can help calm your nervous system. Swedish massage is also a good avenue for encouraging a relaxed emotional state of mind which can directly impact your muscles.

Deep tissue massage

Deep tissue massage gets into your muscles and tendons to release that tightness. It’s good for people with injuries, general muscle tightness, and chronic muscle pain.

Sports massage

Sports massages are similar to deep-tissue massages, but they zero in on the muscles that take a beating when you play sports or do another repetitive physical activity. “Athletes and dancers use their bodies differently than the average person. A massage therapist with experience in sports massage can get in there to break up muscle tightness and address sports injuries.

Trigger point massage

A knot in your neck or a tight spot in your back is known as a trigger point. A trigger point is a tiny muscle spasm or tight spot in the tissue. In a trigger-point massage, the massage therapist uses focused and direct pressure to target those spots. This increases blood flow to the areas, helping them release. This type of massage can also be helpful for people with chronic pain.

Myofascial release

The fascia is a web of connective tissue under the skin. “It supports the muscles and allows us to move freely. When you get a myofascial release, your massage therapist will knead and stretch the muscles and fascia to work out tension and tightness. It’s a form of deep stretching often used together with other therapeutic massage techniques. It’s great for opening up the tightness in your neck, shoulders, and upper and lower back.

Lymphatic massage

Lymphatic fluid has several important functions, including maintaining fluid levels and removing waste products from the body. Lymphatic massage uses a gentle touch to help lymphatic fluid flow more freely through the body. Lymphatic massage is great for people with inflammation — including people with illnesses like arthritis, as well as people who have had mastectomies, which often involve removing the lymph nodes.

Prenatal massage

Prenatal massages are great for helping moms-to-be relax and can help address the aches and pains of growing a baby. Prenatal massages are wonderful for taking pressure off the hips and can help with swelling in the feet and legs. And when the mom is relaxed and feeling well, the baby benefits, too.

Some Specific Conditions That Massage Can Help With

- Anxiety

- Depression

- Digestive disorders

- Fibromyalgia

- Headache

- Insomnia

- Nerve pain

- Postoperative care

- Scar tissue

- Soft tissue strains and injuries

- Sports injuries

- Temporomandibular (TMJ) disorders

Massage Therapist Duties and Responsibilities

A massage therapist is responsible for treating clients through soft tissue manipulation while maintaining a safe and relaxing experience. The therapist should be good at perceiving clients' wishes and needs through spoken language, body language, and other cues and modifying their treatments accordingly. They usually report to the owner or manager of the business.

Here are some typical duties and responsibilities of a massage therapist.

1. Provide 30-60 minute massages to clients by appointment

2. Guide clients through service offerings and determine which massages would benefit them most

3. Take a detailed client history and note any health conditions

4. Evaluate clients to determine painful or stressed areas of the body

5. Advise clients on stretching, strengthening, or relaxation methods

6. Suggest future massage appointments and regimes to clients

7. Listen to clients during appointments and adjust technique as they desire

Health Benefits of Massage Therapy

Massage therapy may be beneficial for anyone but has been noted to help those who have various conditions like cancer, heart disease, stomach problems, and fibromyalgia. You should make sure you talk to your therapist about any medical issues prior to your first session. Here are some of the benefits of massage therapy.

1. Reduces stress and anxiety

That feeling of calm after a massage can aid in reducing stress and anxiety, a study found. Your body has two nervous systems: a sympathetic nervous system that drives your “fight or flight” response in stressful situations and a parasympathetic nervous system that focuses on routine and day-to-day operations that lead to relaxation and rest. A massage is thought to increase your parasympathetic response, which can decrease feelings of anxiety.

2. Improves sleep

Getting a massage can decrease cortisol (a stress hormone) and increase levels of serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters that are known to stabilize your mood. Studies have shown that massage therapy is beneficial for those who have insomnia related to menopause and congestive heart failure.

3. It Lessens pain and muscle tension

A variety of studies have looked into how massage may help lessen pain like acute back pain, neck pain, headaches, and knee pain. The results show that relief may be short-term, rather than long-term, and in some cases receiving a 60-minute massage multiple times per week had better results than fewer or shorter massages.

4. Improves immune function

A study suggests that regular massages increase your body’s level of white blood cells, which work to combat viruses.

5. Relieves constipation

A study shows that for those dealing with constipation after surgery, an abdominal massage may help with bowel movements.

6. Lessens fibromyalgia symptoms

From sleep, memory, and mood, studies have shown that using massage over the course of five weeks may improve symptoms of fibromyalgia, a chronic illness that causes muscle and joint pain and fatigue.

7. Relieves cancer pain

For people undergoing cancer treatments, the physical and emotional toll is great. Many have turned to massage to help lessen cancer pain, increase relaxation, and improve quality of life. There have been a variety of studies, some that say massage therapy doesn’t improve cancer pain and others that show a positive impact.

Reasons to Seek Massage Therapy

Massage therapy is generally thought of as a way to pamper yourself and relax after a busy week. However, the scope of treatment that massage offers is much greater than just a luxury pampering session! There are numerous other benefits to massage therapy – here are a few of the top reasons people seek massage.

1. Relaxation

One of the most common reasons for massage is to relax; for most people who have a jam-packed, busy schedule, massage is a great way to take some time for themselves to de-stress and take a break. Not only is it the perfect way to unwind, but incorporating massage into your busy lifestyle is incredibly important for your overall mental and physical health.

2. Health and Structure

Many people book a massage appointment to treat injuries or aches and pains. Whether you are an athlete, a person who suffers from arthritis, or someone who has a stiff neck from working at a computer, massage is commonly sought after as treatment. There are specific massage techniques that can help a multitude of injuries and medical conditions. There are also clients who stick to a strictly healthy lifestyle that are in need of a way to detox and energize their bodies. The massage will allow blocked energy to flow freely through the body and stimulate the body into detoxifying toxins and wastes.

3. Recharge, Rejuvenate, and Re-energize

Another typical reason a person seeks massage is that they are just exhausted. Mentally, physically, due to illness, stress, or just daily life, it doesn’t matter – they are completely drained of energy and are searching for a way to renew themselves. Massage allows the client to rebuild their natural energy and boost them back up to normal.

4. Connection and Reconnection

Massage offers a very personal and close experience with another human, which is what many people crave. In today’s world of technology, human connection is seriously lacking. Massage is all about touch, and touch is the fastest way to connect with others.

5. A New You

It is no secret that after a massage, you leave feeling refreshed, reinvigorated, and ready to tackle anything. Many clients are seeking this sort of mental and physical change from treatment. Massage transforms the person’s physical being and mental state, which will spill over into a transformation for the rest of their life.

Contraindication for Massage

While massage has many benefits, some caution needs to be taken since there can be certain medical issues involved with giving a massage.

First, vigorous massage strokes should be avoided when working with people who have a bleeding disorder or those who may be taking a blood thinner.

Second, a massage shouldn't be done in any area of the body where there may be blood clots, fractures, open or healing wounds, skin infections, and healing from a recent surgery.

Third, although massage therapy is generally safe for cancer patients, it's best to have the patient consult with their oncologist prior to receiving a massage.

And fourth, pregnant women should also consult their healthcare provider prior to using massage therapy and then should seek a therapist who is specially trained in massage therapy during pregnancy.

A contraindication in a massage is a reason why a massage therapist or practitioner would not give a massage to a client because it may cause harm in some way. Contraindications in massage can be broken down into two categories. A local contraindication in a massage is when a massage can't be performed over a certain area. Oftentimes a massage can be done to the rest of the body, but not to the area that is contraindicated.

A total contraindication in a massage is when a massage shouldn't be performed under any circumstance.

Local Contraindication in Massage

Contraindications for a massage can be discovered when the massage therapist is doing his/her assessment and intake. Some examples of areas of local contraindications include:

- Varicose veins

- Lumps or bumps that are undiagnosed, or haven't been cleared by a medical profession

- Severe bruising

- Deep or open cuts

- Frostbite

- Sunburn

- Areas of recent local surgery

Total Contraindications in Massage

For those with certain medical conditions, massage should be entirely avoided. Some examples of total contraindications include:

- Having significant fever

- Contagious diseases such as the cold or the flu

- Recent operations or acute injuries

- Severe, unstable hypertension

- Local contagious or irritable skin conditions

What Not to Do After a Massage Therapy

Here is a checklist of the things you should not do after getting massage therapy. Doing these things after a massage cannot prevent you from getting the maximum benefits from massage therapy. We have listed ten (10) things that you should not do after a massage.

1. Not Drinking Enough Water

After massage therapy, decreasing your water intake after the massage therapy is not ideal. Massage therapy can help to detoxify and rehydrates your skin. You must drink enough water to assist the hydration and detoxification process.

2. Take A Shower Immediately

By taking a shower immediately after your massage therapy session, you will wash off the massage oils. These massage oils are not yet completely absorbed by the skin cells. It is best to shower after an hour of your massage therapy session. Let the message oil sit and absorbed your skin cells within an hour.

3. Taking a Hot Shower

After your massage therapy, we know that taking a hot shower is tempting. However, if you are suffering from a muscle injury, it will increase inflammation. You have to skip first taking a hot shower. It is better to use cold water for pain relief. Moreover, it is ideal to use warm water when taking a shower. This can help to relax your body.

4. Eating A Large Meal

After a massage, you may feel hungry. This happens due to the increase of blood circulation, which maximizes body systems function including, our digestive system. And, by eating a large meal, you will end up feeling bloated, sluggish, or lethargic. It is best to eat a light and healthy snack to feel more energized after a massage.

5. Drinking Coffee

After relaxing massage therapy, you may be in the mood to take a great cup of coffee. However, drinking coffee after a massage is not a good idea. You cannot maximize the detoxification and rehydration process. You need to wait a few hours after your message before drinking a cup of coffee. This can help you avoid dehydration. Moreover, it is best to drink your coffee the next day and rehydrate yourself by drinking enough water.

6. Drinking Alcohol

Drinking alcoholic beverages cannot encourage the hydration and detox process. It can cause dehydration. You have to avoid drinking alcohol for a day. It is best to drink enough water to promote hydration and to help flush toxins. Moreover, by avoiding alcohol, you can prevent next-day soreness.

7. Doing Strenuous Exercises or Activities

After a relaxing massage, you may feel energized to go to a gym and do some strenuous exercise. However, this can lead to muscle soreness. Moreover, doing some strenuous activities can injure your muscles. Avoid doing some strenuous activities after your massage therapy. It is best for your body and mind to relax. You can do some light activities – watch some movies or read some good books – chill and relax! Moreover, after a massage is the best time to hibernate. You can nap for a while.

8. Stressing Yourself Out

One of the main benefits of massage therapy is helping you manage your stress. It aims to reduce your stress. However, not avoiding things that cause you stress can make you feel anxious, which cannot help your body and mind to continue the relaxation mode. After massage therapy, you should create a plan for the day. You have to make enough ‘me-time’ or self-care time. Moreover, you have to schedule your day as a low-stress one. For example, make sure not to have any other meetings or errands after a massage. Take a rest!

9. Forget to Stretch

You may feel that your body is so relaxed after a massage. It also helps to loosen your stiff muscles and knots. However, if you forget to stretch after a massage therapy session, you can’t prolong this effect. After a relaxing massage session, make sure that before you get off the massage table, do some moderate stretches within a minute or two. You can do some lunges, shoulder, and torso rotations, and toe touches. You may also continue doing some moderate stretches at home.

10. Not Doing the Homework Assigned by the Therapist

If you forget to follow the advice of a massage therapist, you will decrease the benefits that you can get from massage therapy. Follow the advice and instructions of your massage therapist to get the most out of your massage therapy session. If your therapist assigned some stretching, stretching, or some movement-based exercises – don’t forget to do them! You have to do your homework to gain the long-lasting effects of massage.

What to Expect from a Massage Therapy

Before you go for a massage, make sure you drink plenty of water and do not eat too soon before the massage. Try to give yourself plenty of time to get to the appointment so it is easier for you to relax. The massage therapist will talk to you about your health history and any problems you are experiencing. Make sure you tell them about any conditions you have or medicines you are taking. Your therapist will discuss how they are going to treat you. They will leave the room while you undress — keeping your underwear on — and you will lie down on the massage table. The therapist will knock before they come back in. You will be covered with a drape or towel during the massage, and music or aromatherapy may be used to help you relax. It is important to tell the therapist if you feel uncomfortable at any time during the massage. A professional massage therapist will never expose your breasts, genitals, or other areas you ask to keep covered.

How to Find a Massage Therapist

Like choosing other healthcare professionals, it's essential to be a conscious consumer when selecting a massage therapist. Ask your primary care provider or someone else you trust to recommend a reputable business or therapist.

Don't be afraid to ask a potential massage therapist questions such as:

- Are you licensed, certified, or registered?

- What are your training and experience?

- How many massage therapy sessions do you think I'll need?

- What's the cost, and is it covered by health insurance?

A skilled therapist has a vast toolbox of techniques that can be incorporated based on your needs, and he or she will respond and modify these techniques based on your feedback.

Massage therapy is safe and effective for people of all ages. It's not only a feel-good way to indulge or pamper yourself. It's a powerful tool to help you take charge of your health and well-being, whether you have a specific health condition or are looking for a stress reliever.

Sources:

Cleveland Clinic

Mayo Clinic Health System

Healthline

NIH

Indeed

Study

Health Direct

US News

The Balance

Neuroscience Specialists

DIMS

Alpha School of Massage

Loving Life

 

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 (in the United States) immediately.