This is my first massage with Colleen, what do I need to do?

Please arrive a few minutes early to fill out a client intake form. (or click here to download the client intake form from this web site to fill out and bring in to your first appointment) This allows me to review your medical history and your prior massage experience so that I can best plan your massage for you.  I will go over your medical history, and we will talk about what we are going to work on in the massage session.  Your massage should be an enjoyable experience.  If you have a request for a desired pressure, if you are too hot or too cold, please let me know.  I will do my best to accommodate you.

Are there any times I should not get a massage?

Yes, this is why I have you fill out a client intake form, and I always ask you general health questions prior to beginning any session.  It is very important that you inform me of any new or changing health problems, changes in medications you are taking, or any accidents or injuries since your last massage.  Massage is not recommended if you are suffering from a fever above 99.4, infectious diseases like a severe cold, flu, etc., certain skin conditions, uncontrolled high blood pressure, phlebitis, certain forms of cancer, or alcohol intoxication. 
      I may require recommendation or approval from your doctor.

What do I wear? Must I be completely undressed?

It is important that you feel comfortable.  I ask that you undress to your level of comfort, you may leave your underwear on.  Please remove necklaces, chains, earrings, rings, etc, anything that would be in the way of working on a particular part of the body.  If you are receiving work on just the neck and shoulders, you may leave your pants or skirt on, but you may be more comfortable with tight clothes off during your massage.  And yes, if your feet are usually cold, you may leave your socks on, unless I am working on them.

Where will my massage take place?

Your massage will be in a comfortable and quiet room on a specially designed table with cushions and bolsters for your comfort. 

Will the practitioner be in the room when I disrobe?

No, I will leave the room while you undress, relax on the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet and towel.  I will show you how I want you to be positioned (face up or down) on the massage table before I leave the room.  I will knock before I enter the room and I may do some minor adjustments in your position before I begin the massage.  When the massage is over, I will leave the room for you to get dressed.  

Will I be covered during the session?

Yes, you will be fully draped at all times to keep you warm and comfortable, only the area I am working on at that time will be undraped.  I have extra blankets and a heated table for your comfort if you are cold. 

Will there be music?

Yes, I have a large collection of relaxing music to play during your massage, but if you have a favorite, bring it in. I have a player that has a built-in audio cable that attaches to the headphone jack for a variety of digital music players, or just bring in your favorite CD. 

What should I do during my massage session?

Your massage should be an enjoyable experience.  If you have a preference for more or less pressure, if you are too hot or cold, or are experiencing any discomfort, please let me know.  I will do my best to accommodate you.  Many people just close their eyes and completely relax.  Work on a particular problem area will require more client/therapist communication.  I will let you know if you need to change positions or turn over.

Can I get a massage if I am pregnant?

Yes, as long you are not having any major problems in your pregnancy.  Generally, we ask that you are safely through your first trimester.  Again, I may require recommendation or approval from your doctor.  Massage can help with many of the aches and pains you experience as your body changes during pregnancy.  Extra pillows and bolsters help to position you safely and comfortably for your massage.  I am certified in pregnancy massage techniques.

Will I be sore after the massage?

Besides being relaxed, sometimes clients may be sore the next day or two after a massage.  The soreness is caused by the release of toxins from your muscles during the massage.  It is important to drink plenty of water anyway, and especially important after a massage because it helps to flush out what we have stirred up so it won’t settle back in the same spot or somewhere else again.  Also, a hot bath or shower can help to sweat some of toxins out.  If we have done some more intense work on a particular area, I may suggest applying ice to that area.  Never apply ice directly to your skin, wrap it in a towel, put it on that area for 20 minutes, and take it off and let the area warm up completely before you put it back on.

Can I receive chiropractic and massage in the same day?

Yes, I am located in Tri Lakes Chiropractic and many times I will give someone a massage before they receive a chiropractic treatment.  We have four chiropractors in this clinic.  You can receive just a massage, get a massage and chiropractic, or just get chiropractic care.  We work to coordinate your appointments together to maximize your results.  For more information on chiropractic care, stop in or call: 417-336-5857 or 417-336-5856 and they will be happy to assist you.  Also, visit www.trilakeschiro.com for more information.

What is your cancellation policy?

Please notify me at least 24 hours before your scheduled appointment of changes or cancellations as a courtesy to myself and other clients.  If you arrive late for your massage, you will receive the remainder of your allotted massage time and will be charged for the full session.  Please give me a call if you know you will be running late.  I may be able to fit your entire session into my schedule and if you are also scheduled for a chiropractic appointment, depending on their schedule.

How often should I receive massage?

The answer varies greatly depending upon your health, and the reason/goals for receiving massage.  I will give you recommendations after your first session and monitor your progress over the course of the treatment.  As a rule of thumb, if you are recovering from an injury or are working with chronic pain, a weekly session may be necessary for a while to gain the momentum in your healing.  For those using massage as a preventative means, once a month is okay.  This should become more frequent in times of stress or illness.  These are only suggestions; you will find what type of schedule works best for you. 
Massage in not just "pampering", it has many therapeutic benefits and can work well in our health and wellness plans.  The benefits increase with the frequency in which you receive massage therapy.

               Check out the Benefits of Massage page

Do I tip my massage therapist?

It is not required, but certainly appreciated.