A Master Touch Massage Therapy®

Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions and general information you may want to know before getting  a massage:

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What is Massage?

Massage therapy is a hands-on manipulation of the soft tissue and joints of the body. The soft tissues include muscle, skin, tendons and associated fascia, ligaments and joint capsules.

Massage has many diverse physiological effects, which are primarily due to the therapist's hands moving over the body. The different movements can physically stretch muscles, ligaments, tendons and fascia, encourage the circulation through the tissue, inhibit muscular spasms and be either sedating or stimulating to the nervous system.

The therapeutic use of massage by a Licensed Massage Therapist affects all the systems of the body - in particular, the muscular, circulatory, lymphatic (immune) and nervous systems.

Therapeutic massage is indicated as a relevant choice of care in the following areas:

• Health maintenance and/or health promotion > promotes general tissue health and encourages lifestyle and general health awareness.
• Stress management > helps relieve associated muscular tension and encourages general relaxation.
• Post-operative care > helps reduce recovery period and speeds up elimination of anesthetic, as well as reducing pain and stiffness associated with bed rest.
• Emotional and/or psychological disorders > release endorphins that help to uplift and reduce depression.
• Terminal illness > helps reduce pain and discomfort associated with long-term bed rest, as well as providing support and reducing the effects of emotional stress for the patient, as well as their family.
• Chronic pain > helps break the "pain-spasm" cycle whilst reducing associated muscle tightness.
• Care of the disabled > provides emotional support, as well as assisting in the maintenance of general tissue health.
• Pre- and/or post-event sports participation > improves performance and recovery and reduces the likelihood of serious injury.

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What is a Massage Therapist?

Massage therapy is a regulated health care profession. Massage therapists must complete hundreds of hours of classroom and hands-on educational training at accredited schools; and have extensive knowledge of anatomy and physiology, assessment, bodywork techniques, and pathology before they are able to apply for their state board.

A growing number of states and provinces now require licenses for massage therapists. Licensed massage therapists must uphold specific standards of practice and codes of ethics in order to hold a valid license.

In order to become a licensed or registered massage therapist, most states and provinces require you to pass specific government board examinations, which consist of a written and a practical portion.

After passing the board exams and obtaining liability insurance, you will be entitled to carry a valid massage therapy license. When you receive your license, you will be given a registration number. Massage therapists are also required to renew their license anually, and required to complete 6 hours of State approved continuing education classes annually.

A licensed massage therapist is covered under most health insurance plans. However, it's advisable to check your policy for current coverage, since many plans require people to get a referral from another health care provider first.

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Where will my massage session take place?
Your session can take place in my home, your home, office or hotel.

If you prefer, soft music may be played to help you relax. You are welcome to bring your own music, if you like. Please make sure it isn't fast-paced music, but something that is soothing and relaxing.

Your session will be administered on a table especially designed for your comfort and for the purpose of massage. 

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Who will perform the massage? 
A fully-trained, state-licensed, professional massage therapist.

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Is massage done fully clothed?

Massage is done with the client fully disrobed and draped, or non-draped, if you prefer.
You may disrobe to your own personal level of comfort.
After you have disrobed, climb on the massage table, slide under the sheet, face down, take a deep breath, relax and wait for the massage to begin.

The therapist will always remain fully clothed. - NO EXCEPTIONS

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Will the practitioner be present when I disrobe?
No, I will leave the room while you undress. 
After a few minutes, I will knock and ask if you are ready.
If so, then I will enter the room and begin the massage.

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Will I be covered during the session?
Yes, in general I follow a policy of full body draping at all times for all females.
Only the area being worked on will be exposed, ensuring privacy and modesty for the client and the therapist.
Any intentional exposing, on the part of the client, to the therapist will not be tolerated.
At any time during the massage the client or the therapist has the right to terminate the massage. Full massage fee will be expected.

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What parts of my body will be massaged? 
A typical full-body session will include work on your back, arms, glutes/buttocks, legs, feet, hands, head, neck, abs and shoulders.
You will not be touched on or near your genitals (male or female) or breasts (female).
"Happy Ending" massages are NOT administered, NOT professional,  NOT ethical, and NOT legal.

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Are there any medical conditions that would make getting a massage inadvisable?
Yes. That's why it's imperative that before you begin your session that you complete a Client Intake Form and that you answer honestly.  This form is kept confidential, and is a State of Texas requirement.
It is very important that you inform me of any health problems or medications you are taking.
If you are under a doctor's care, it is required that you receive a written recommendation for massage or bodywork prior to any session.

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How long will the session last?
The average full-body massage lasts approximately one professional hour. 
This includes (2) 5 minutes periods one at the start and one at the end of the massage for you to undress and dress.
The actual massage will last 50-55 minutes. 
If a delay occurs on my part, I will do my best to accommodate for lost time.
Delays on behalf of the client generally will not be adjusted and the client will be charged for the full session.

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What should I do during the massage session?
Relax, breathe. and make yourself comfortable.
Many people just close their eyes, completely relax and go to sleep.
Others like to talk during their session. You may talk if you like, but please keep it to a minimum.

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How will I feel after the massage?
Most people feel very relaxed, sleepy or even groggy.
Slight pain from the muscles worked during the massage may last a day or two.
Since toxins are released from your soft tissues during a massage, it is recommended you drink plenty of water following your massage. You will receive a bottle of water after your massage to assist you with flushing your system of toxins.

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What are the benefits of massage and bodywork?
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.
Massage and bodywork is also known to promote better sleep, improve concentration, reduce anxiety and create an overall sense of well-being.

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Are you willing to do this work at my house or apartment?

There is nothing greater then receiving a relaxing massage and then being able to relax at home afterwards. 
I can offer my services on the weekend to you in your home.
However, there is an additional fee for outcalls (See Rates Link). 
Prices Subject to Change Without Notice

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What is your cancellation policy?

If you find it necessary to cancel your appointment, I ask that you give  24 hours notice.
This allows for another client to be scheduled for your appointment time.

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What if I am late?

 If you think you are going to be late I ask that you call and inform me of your delay.
All cancellations are to be made 24 hours before the scheduled appointment. Full payment may be expected, and I can reschedule your appointment.