Massage Frequently Asked Questions

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Massage FAQs

Whether massage is a regular part of your health and wellness routine, or this is your first time considering it, it’s natural to have questions.

HOW EARLY SHOULD I BE FOR MY APPOINTMENT?

If it’s your first visit, aim to arrive about 5 minutes early. You’ll be asked to complete a short Patient Information Form, which helps us customise your session

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR TO MY MASSAGE?

Your therapist will leave the room while you prepare. You’ll be instructed to undress to your comfort level and lie under a towel. Only the area being worked on will be uncovered, and your privacy will always be respected.

Afterwards, it’s best to have or bring comfortable clothing. Massage oils or creams are used, and while we wipe away any residue with a warm towel, some traces may remain.

WHAT HAPPENS AT THE START OF A MASSAGE TREATMENT?

Once you’re on the table, your therapist will begin the session, checking in about pressure and any areas of focus. The treatment room lighting is kept dim to help you relax, and you’re welcome to choose the music – we use Spotify, so feel free to make a request.

CAN YOU GET A MASSAGE WHILE PREGNANT?

Yes – massage can be very supportive during pregnancy. However, it’s important to let your therapist know, as techniques and positioning will need to be adapted. In some cases, approval from your GP may be recommended.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I GET A MASSAGE AND HOW MANY SESSIONS WILL I NEED?

It really depends on your body, lifestyle, and goals. Some people benefit from weekly sessions, while others prefer fortnightly or monthly maintenance. Certain conditions may ease after a single treatment, while others require a series of sessions to see lasting results.

After your first visit, your therapist will evaluate your muscles and work with you to create a treatment plan that best supports your needs.

WHAT GETS MASSAGED IN A FULL BODY MASSAGE?

In a full body massage, your therapist will usually work on the neck and shoulders, arms and hands, legs (front and back), hips (gluteal area), and back. They may also gently massage under the collarbone at the pectoral muscles.

Every session can be customised to suit your needs. If you prefer not to have a full body massage, your therapist will instead focus on specific areas of tension or soreness, working into the individual muscles as required.

WHAT IS REMEDIAL MASSAGE?

Remedial massage is a targeted treatment designed to assess, treat, and manage pain or injuries. It focuses on muscles, tendons, ligaments, and connective tissue, helping restore normal function and support recovery.

WHAT IS DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE?

Deep tissue massage uses firm pressure to work into the deeper layers of muscle and fascia. It can be particularly helpful for chronic tension, postural issues, or sore spots, though your therapist will always adjust the pressure to suit your comfort.

WILL THE MASSAGE HURT?

Massage pressure is always tailored to your body. We will never work so deeply that you feel the need to hold your breath, tense up, or grit your teeth. At times you may experience a “comfortable discomfort” as tight areas release, but it should never feel painfully uncomfortable.

We’ll check in with you during the session, and we encourage you to be honest about how the pressure feels so we can adjust as needed.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THE MASSAGE?

Once the session ends, your therapist will step out while you dress. We’ll then talk through your experience, what you may feel in the next day or two, and any recommended stretches or follow-up treatments.

WILL I BE SORE AFTERWARDS?

It depends on your body, the type of injury you have, your personal pain threshold, and whether you’ve had massage treatment before. Because the work we do can be quite firm and deep, it’s common to feel some muscle soreness for a day or two afterwards – similar to how you might feel after a workout or a long walk.

This soreness is normal and part of the body’s healing response as the soft tissues adjust. If you do experience discomfort, it will generally be from the treatment itself rather than from your original injury.

DO I NEED TO DO ANYTHING ONCE I LEAVE THE CLINIC?

You will be reminded to drink LOTS of water during the next 24 hours, because massage moves some of the muscle metabolic by-products into circulation faster than usual, and the water will help to flush your system. If we’ve suggested stretches or exercises, we’ll explain them clearly before you leave.

WHEN SHOULD I NOT GET A MASSAGE?

There are only a few situations where you should avoid booking a massage – for example, if you have a fever, cold or flu, or a contagious skin infection.

In many other cases, massage is still possible but may need to be adapted. Your therapist might adjust techniques for conditions such as arthritis or osteoporosis, or avoid certain areas if you have cuts or burns.

For some health conditions – including cancer, certain heart conditions, or pregnancy – it’s a good idea to get approval from your GP before treatment. This doesn’t mean you can’t have a massage, but it’s always best to err on the side of caution.

DO YOU RECOMMEND ANY COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES TO SUPPORT RECOVERY ALONGSIDE REMEDIAL MASSAGE?

Yes. Many athletes and active clients see faster recovery when combining massage with holistic health support. We often recommend exploring naturopathy for sports nutrition, gut health, and performance recovery. For tailored advice, Biohacking naturopath specialises in sports nutrition, detoxification, and long-term performance optimisation.

DO YOU TAKE AMERICAN EXPRESS?

Yes! We also accept debit cards, credit cards, and cash. We don’t add surcharges (except for cancellation fees, but that’s another story).

Book Your Appointment Now

Are muscle pains and aches preventing you from feeling your best?

Remedial Massage can help provide the relief you need whether you’re an Olympic athlete, trades person or office worker.

Get in touch now for a tailored consultation at my North Plympton practice.

Book Your Appointment Now

Are muscle pains and aches preventing you from feeling your best?

Remedial Massage can help provide the relief you need whether you’re an Olympic athlete, trades person or office worker.

Get in touch now for a tailored consultation at my North Plympton practice.