Medical Massage Therapists Near Me

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FAQs:

What is a Medical Massage?

Medical massage is outcome-based massage, primarily the application of a specific treatment targeted to the specific problem the patient presents with a diagnosis and are administered after a thorough assessment/evaluation by the medical massage therapist with specific outcomes being the basis for treatment. It is also known as clinical massage or treatment massage.

What Does a Medical Massage Therapist Do?

A medical massage therapist is a licensed massage therapist (LMT) who treats health conditions diagnosed by a doctor. Massage therapy in medical settings is growing because the practice of combining traditional and alternative medicine is increasing. More hospitals and medical centers are offering these types of treatments and more health insurance companies will cover the cost. Medical massages help reduce pain and stress, especially for cancer or fibromyalgia patients or for patients in hospice.

A medical massage therapist works closely with doctors to treat patients who are affected by pain, illness, or injury. Their typical day-to-day roles and responsibilities include:

- Providing massages to patients for a variety of lengths

- Using various massage techniques to manipulate muscles and soft tissue to treat chronic pain and injuries

- Listening and explaining various aspects of medical massage to patients

Their work has the specific goal to alleviate pain and treat health conditions such as neuropathy, cancer, fibromyalgia, sports injuries, or even high blood pressure.

Where Does a Medical Massage Therapist Works?

Medical massage therapists typically work in hospitals and medical clinics. A medical massage therapist needs to be flexible to the health care environment, as there are some major differences between the work environment in a hospital or clinic setting and the work environment at a spa. For instance, you likely will be working at a patient’s bed side, navigating around medical equipment, IVs, and other obstacles. You will mostly likely be dealing with harsh lighting and may be interrupted frequently. This may be very different than the typical spa setting with a massage table in the dimly lit room with peaceful background music.

What is the Difference Between a Medical Massage Therapist and General Massage Therapist?

The work of a medical massage therapist differs from that of a general massage therapist. Medical massage therapists have advanced training and experience that allows them to provide care focused on healing injuries, improving function, or increasing circulation. They typically work in hospitals or clinics, may receive orders from a physician as to the type of massage treatment they should give their patients, and can even be paid through the patient’s health insurance.

On the other hand, general massage therapists typically work in spas with the main goal to provide relaxation for their clients. They may use similar techniques as a medical massage therapist, and they may even be able to alleviate some pain, too. However, a general massage therapist’s main goal is not treating a medical condition, but rather reducing stress and promoting relaxation for their client.

How Do Massages Make You Feel Better?

This is because your brain releases feel-good chemicals and pain diminishes. The therapist’s touch causes an immediate reaction in your brain. As soon as your skin’s nerve cells feel pressure, they signal the brain to release feel-good chemicals called endorphins, which boost your mood and give you a natural high. As a result, stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline begin to decrease and the overall effect is one of euphoria and bliss.

If you have real aches or pains, the morphine-like effect from the endorphins will help diminish them by blocking pain signals from the brain. And if your muscles are sore after a rigorous workout, a good rubdown will actually help them heal faster. Researchers found that massage decreases the inflammation caused by exercise and increases the occurrence of cell repair.

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.

Is a Prescription Necessary for Medical Massage Therapy?

Massage therapists do not have the legal ability to diagnose a patient with a condition. In order to claim that a medical treatment is being provided for a specific issue, a prescription must come from a healthcare provider. The prescription could come from a general practitioner, chiropractor, neurologist, orthopedist, oral surgeon, psychiatrist, or any medical professional.

Why You Should Get a Medical Massage?

there are numerous reasons to get a massage and this includes those who are recovering from injuries, those who suffer from chronic pain, and those who have injuries that limit their activities. In fact, you can get a medical massage for a variety of conditions and problems. One common problem that can arise from a tight and tense body is pain and soreness. If you have gotten a massage and you notice that your body feels a lot better after the massage, then you know that you will be able to use the massages to eliminate or reduce the soreness that you are feeling. This can be especially helpful if you have injured yourself and are in a lot of discomforts.

Medical massage has helped thousands of people get back to what is considered to be a normal and well-functioning state of health. The results of medical massage therapy can help you feel more energized and younger-looking. This is due to the fact that the massage can help the blood circulate and oxygenate your body making it stronger than before. In addition, getting a massage can also remove any stress that you are experiencing so that you can get more accomplished during your day-to-day activities.

Is Medical Massage Therapy Painful?

Discomfort during the massage depends on the reason you are seeking a massage. If it is for soothing purposes, our therapists will avoid any massage technique that is uncomfortable. If you are receiving medical massage or sports massage for a pain complaint, the massage will likely cause some tolerable discomfort. Discomfort subsides as the muscles and fascia soften and respond to the massage.

Does Medical Massage Covered By Insurance?

Typically, medical massage therapy is not covered by health insurance. Call your insurance carrier before your appointment so you know your coverage status. Massage therapy may eligible for coverage by some healthcare flexible spending accounts (FSA).

What is a Massage?

Massage is the manipulation of the body's soft tissues. Massage techniques are commonly applied with hands, fingers, elbows, knees, forearms, feet, or a device. The purpose of massage is generally for the treatment of body stress or pain. In European countries, a person professionally trained to give massages is traditionally known as a masseur (male) or a masseuse (female). In the United States, these individuals are often referred to as massage therapists, because they must be certified and licensed as "licensed massage therapists". In some provinces of Canada, they are called “Registered massage therapists”, as they are regulated health professionals.

Conditions that a Medical Massage Can Treat

A massage therapist can work on a number of medical issues that are either chronic (meaning they last a long time) or acute (a medical issue that has happened recently and can be cared for in the near future.)

These issues can include:

- Repetitive stress injuries from sitting or standing postures that are held for several hours a day.

- Migraines, cluster headaches, tension headaches or sinus headaches.

- Whiplash.

- Temporomandibular joint and muscle disorder.

- Strains and sprains (after inflammation has gone down).

- Low back pain.

- Tendonitis.

- Radiating pain.

- Post-surgical scar tissue (with doctor’s approval).

- Frozen shoulder.

Different Types of Massage

Massage is the practice of rubbing and kneading the body using the hands. During a massage, a trained massage therapist will apply gentle or strong pressure to the muscles and joints of the body to ease pain and tension. Read on to learn about the different types of massage and which type might be right for you.

1. Swedish Massage

Swedish massage is a gentle full-body massage that’s great for people who are new to massage, want to release tension, and desire gentle touch. It can help release muscle knots, and it’s also a good choice for when you want to fully relax during a massage.

2. Hot Stone Massage

The hot stone massage is best for people who have muscle pain and tension or who simply want to relax. This type of therapeutic massage is similar to a Swedish massage, only the massage therapist uses heated stones in lieu of or in addition to their hands.

3. Aromatherapy Massage

Aromatherapy massages are best for people who enjoy the scent and want to have an emotional healing component to their massage. This type of massage can help boost your mood, reduce stress and anxiety, reduce symptoms of depression, relieve muscle tension, and relieve pain.

Aromatherapy massages combine soft, gentle pressure with the use of essential oils. Your massage therapist will usually decide which essential oils to use, but you can let them know if you have a preference. Essential oils are diluted before being applied to the skin.

4. Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage uses more pressure than Swedish massage. It’s a good option if you have muscle problems, such as soreness, injury, imbalance, tightness, and chronic muscle pain. The massage will last 60 to 90 minutes. While deep tissue may be more intense, you shouldn’t feel any pain or soreness.

5. Sports Massage

Sports massage is a good option if you have a repetitive use injury to a muscle, such as what you may get from playing a sport. It’s also a good option if you’re prone to injuries because it can be used to help prevent them. A sports massage can be done as a full-body massage or on specific parts of the body that need the most attention. Deep pressure may be alternated with soothing strokes, depending on your needs.

6. Trigger Point Massage

Trigger point massage is best suited for people who have injuries, chronic pain, or a specific issue or condition. Sometimes, areas of tightness in the muscle tissues, known as trigger points, can cause pain in other parts of the body. By focusing on relieving trigger points, this type of massage can reduce pain. This type of massage will usually last 60 to 90 minutes.

7. Reflexology

Reflexology uses gentle to firm pressure on different pressure points of the feet, hands, and ears. It’s best for people who are looking to relax or restore their natural energy levels. It’s also a good option for those who aren’t comfortable being touched on the entire body.

8. Shiatsu Massage

Shiatsu massage is best for people who want to feel relaxed and relieve stress, pain, and tension. It’s a Japanese type of massage that promotes emotional and physical calm and relaxation, helps relieve pain, may relieve headaches, reduces muscle tension, improves sleep and fatigue, and may improve mood. Shiatsu massages typically last 60 to 90 minutes.

9. Thai Massage

Thai massage is best for people who want a more active form of massage and want to reduce and relieve pain and stress. It can also help improve flexibility, circulation, and energy levels. A Thai massage lasts 60 to 90 minutes.

10. Prenatal Massage

Prenatal massage can be a safe way for women to get a massage during pregnancy. It can help reduce pregnancy body aches, reduce stress, and ease muscle tension. The massage will usually last 45 to 60 minutes.

11. Couples Massage

A couples massage is a massage that you do with your partner, friend, or family member in the same room. It brings all the benefits of a regular massage plus the chance to enjoy a relaxing experience with a partner.

12. Chair Massage

A chair massage is best for people who want a quick massage that focuses on the neck, shoulders, and back. A chair massage can be a comfortable introduction to massage if you’ve never had one before. Chair massage also helps relieve stress and promote relaxation. This type of massage uses light to medium pressure.

13. Lymphatic Drainage Massage

Lymphatic drainage massage, also known as manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), is a type of gentle massage that encourages the lymph fluids to circulate through the body. The lymphatic system helps remove toxins, and improved circulation can help with a number of conditions, including lymphedema, fibromyalgia, edema, skin disorders, fatigue, insomnia, stress, digestive problems, arthritis, and migraine.

14. Cranial Sacral Therapy

Cranial sacral therapy or craniosacral massage is a type of bodywork that helps release compression in the bones of the head, low back, and spine. The idea behind cranial sacral therapy is that gentle manipulation of the bones in the skull, spine, and pelvis, can help the flow of cerebrospinal fluid in the central nervous system. It can also produce deeply relaxing results.

15. Abhyanga Oil Massage

Abhyanga is a type of oil massage from the system of Ayurvedic medicine. The oil is warmed and gently massaged all over the body. This type of massage focuses on nourishing the skin rather than deeply massaging the muscles.

16. Myofascial Release Therapy

Myofascial release therapy is another type of bodywork that involves releasing stiffness in the fascia, the connective tissue system that contains each muscle in the body. Your therapist will massage and stretch any areas that feel tense with light pressure. Specific conditions that may benefit from myofascial therapy include myofascial pain syndrome, headaches, and venous insufficiency. These massages usually last 60 minutes or longer.

Benefits of Medical Massage

There are many ways it is beneficial. Below is a list several benefits of medical massage:

- Helps to decrease inflammation and pain

- Deactivates Myofascial trigger points

- Helps digestion

- Calms and soothes the nervous system

- Improves posture and coordination

- Helps in preventing future chronic pain conditions

- Improves flexibility and range of motion

- Releases sore and tense muscles

If you are suffering from chronic pain, medical massage may be right for you. Be sure to talk to your doctor before beginning any massage therapy and obtain a prescription.

Preparing for Your Medical Massage Therapy Session

Along with the recommendation to stay hydrated, the following article gives additional advice on preparing for your medical massage therapy session and what to expect.

The first step of a medical massage therapy session is an assessment of the client’s health and the area of pain or discomfort. Based on this information, the massage therapist can decide on the technique and structure of the session. If you’re in good health and feel that you can benefit from this treatment, you should schedule a medical massage therapy session. It’s worth it to make an appointment if your primary care provider recommends it.

Next is to prepare relevant health information for the therapist. A medical massage can be somewhat uncomfortable. If you have any pain in your body or injuries, this is information the therapist will need to know. Preparing the information ahead of time will ensure you do not forget anything when you are at your appointment.

Third, drink water. Deep tissue massages are designed to break up knots and adjust your muscles. They also release toxins from the muscles, which might make you feel fatigued or nauseated after a massage. Staying well hydrated by drinking water before and after the massage will help alleviate these symptoms.

Lastly, wear loose, comfortable clothing to the massage appointment. This will help you continue to feel relaxed and make the process of undressing easier. You may also feel sore or tender following the massage, so loose clothing will be more comfortable to wear.

After your medical massage therapy session, you’ll have to complete a review of what you’ve experienced and what you’ve done in between. A detailed evaluation of the results you’ve experienced will provide you with an idea of what to expect during your next medical massage therapy session. And the best part is, you can start feeling better right away! And you’ll have a great new outlook on life! After all, there’s nothing like a good massage to help you feel better.

It’s also good to know that with medical massage therapy, you may have to attend several sessions. If you have chronic pain, a deep tissue massage every two to three weeks is likely to be needed. Acute injuries, on the other hand, may only need a few medical massage sessions to heal. During these sessions, you can expect to feel better than ever. A professional will be able to address any ailment and make you feel better.

A medical massage session can help you feel better. Many of these massage sessions are highly effective at easing the tightness and soreness of your muscles. But even if you don’t have chronic pain, it can still be beneficial for your overall health. If you’ve never had a medical massage before, it may be time to schedule a visit. It’s a great way to feel better and get back in shape.

What Happens After a Massage

Your massage therapist will let you know the massage is complete (or gently wake you if you were lucky enough to nod off!) and then leave the room to allow you to redress. Try not to sit or stand up too quickly, as you may feel dizzy or lightheaded after a massage, especially if the room is dark and warm. Sit up slowly, and take your time when you stand up and dress.

Make sure to drink lots of water after your massage as this should help with the dizziness if you have any, and flush out any toxins released during the massage.

Most people feel extremely relaxed. You may feel the freedom from long-term aches and pains and increased energy which may last for days afterward. If you have gone for a deep tissue massage, you may feel slightly tender to start with, but after your muscles get used to the relaxed state, you should feel much better.

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.

Possible Risks of Medical Massage

Though most everyone can benefit from medical massage therapy, there are some situations in which it could potentially do more harm than good. For example, if you are taking a blood thinner or if you have a blood clotting disorder, medical massage could cause injuries. You should also avoid medical massage in areas where you have wounds or burns, if you have been diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis (DVT), if you have (or may have) a fracture, or if you have advanced osteoporosis. In these situations, the risks associated with medical massage outweigh the benefits.

It is also important to remember that depending on the type of medical massage therapy you receive, your muscles may feel sore the following day. Though this is normal, you should call your doctor right away if you experience pain or discomfort that makes it difficult for you to perform everyday activities. You should also call your doctor if the pain worsens after the first day.

Medical massage therapy is a great addition to your existing treatment plan but be sure to clear it with your doctor beforehand. Not only can it alleviate pain, but in some cases, it can help treat depression, anxiety, and many of the physical symptoms that come along with it.

5 Questions to Ask Before Getting a Medical Massage

One of the best ways to relieve stress and tension in your body is with a massage. However, if you're not careful about what kind of massage you get, it can make your pain worse. Massages are often used by people who want relief from chronic pain or other conditions like fibromyalgia. But before booking an appointment for a medical massage, there are some questions you need to ask your massage therapist or clinic. Since many clinics claim to provide medical massage, it's best to check that you're getting the best professional help possible rather than risk making your pain worse. Here are 5 questions to ask before getting a medical massage:

1. What Certifications And Licenses Does My Medical Massage Therapist Have?

The massage therapist should be licensed and certified. If they are not, this is a red flag that you may want to go with another medical professional for your medical-massage. You do not have to get into the nitty-gritty of what specific licensure or certification means, but if their answers are evasive when questioned about it then you know something is up! Make sure they're qualified before getting one! Licensing requirements vary by state - in most states, Massage Therapists must graduate from an accredited program in order to sit for the licensing exam.- Certification generally involves additional training after graduating from school.

2. How Long Have They Been Practicing?

There are medical massage therapists who have been practicing for decades. Others may be relatively new to the practice, so you want to know which one is your therapist before getting a medical massage from them. The person giving you medical massage should not only have experience but also be well-trained in their field, whether they are working out of an office or doing mobile sessions at your home or another location that works best for you. You can ask what kind of training and continuing education opportunities there are available as well as how much actual hands-on work time has gone into this professional’s career—and then do some research on those claims! A medical massage therapist who has been practicing for many years likely knows what they are doing.

3. Which Styles Of Massage Have They Been Trained In?

There are many types of medical massage treatments available. If you have a specific medical condition, it can be important to know what type of medical massage therapist has the best training for your situation. For example, certain medical conditions require deep tissue or myofascial release techniques that shouldn't be performed by someone who is not trained in those techniques.

4. How Often Do They Recommend Sessions?

The amount of time spent on one session varies based on the size and location of the problem area being treated as well as other factors like age and health status. They will also need to take into account if there are multiple issues present at once, which may mean more than one treatment per day until all of the medical conditions are resolved.

5. What Are The Possible Side Effects?

As medical massage therapy is a type of medical treatment, the same general questions you would ask any other healthcare professional still apply. A medical massage can be risky and has potential side effects so it’s important to ensure that your medical massage therapist is very familiar with possible risks and side effects associated with medical massages. This way they will know what not to do in order to keep their patient safe during the process as well as after as some reactions may continue for hours or days post-treatment. If you have concerns about your health then this should also be shared with them before beginning your session so they are aware and more able to care for you appropriately if necessary. For example, someone who has diabetes might need special precautions taken when giving them medical massage therapy treatments.

How to Choose a Massage Therapist and What to Expect

Your doctor will recommend you to a therapist to get a medical massage in most cases. However, you might sometimes have to put in some effort to find a massage specialist. Here are some tips that you can apply while conducting your search:

1. Recognize the services you require. For instance, do you need a therapist to help you with pain management, or are you looking for someone that can offer you stress relief? Identifying the goals you want to achieve from therapy and any medical conditions that might restrict your choice is imperative. 

2. Get some names from those around you who have opted for medical massage therapy. If you are being treated for something specific, ask the doctor in charge to refer you to some therapists. 

3. Shortlist a few therapists according to your preferences, including the location that suits you. You can also shortlist therapists according to various customer experiences that you may find online. 

4. Connect with your therapists and ask them about their charges and logistics. If you can’t travel, ask the professional if they can visit you at home. 

5. Finally, choose a therapist that ticks all the right boxes for you and book an appointment as soon as possible. 

Now, what should you expect in your first meeting with a therapist? A therapist will first take your medical history and all the related details that will help them curate a massage plan for you. They will also inspect your current health and lifestyle before suggesting anything. Then, they might perform a session with you to help you get an idea of the entire therapy. Sometimes, your therapist may advise you to perform specific exercises at home before the next session.

Sources:

Wikipedia

Mayo Clinic

Be Well Body

Well Stated

Alpha School of Massage

NC Massage School

WUP

Complete Therapies

Hands on Health

Healthline

Tay Medispa

Evergreen

Muscle Bone Wellness

The Sanctuary

 

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.