Massage therapy and bodyworker trade association for Minnesota

"Renewing standards for Massage Therapists & Bodyworkers by establishing an organization of competent practice."

When to get massage after accident, surgey or injury?
Should I see a doctor first?
Does insurance cover massage?
What should I wear?
What's the difference in techniques?
How much pressure is too much?
Why is there a difference in price?
Why didn't my therapist give me a full body massage?
Will my pain be gone after one massage?
What's with all the water?

When is too soon after an accident, surgery or injury for massage?

When in doubt, it's always a good idea to check with your doctor. In most injury cases, massage therapy from a well-trained therapist is very helpful in any stage of the healing process. MT's have been trained to help relieve inflammation, pain, and restriction. A general rule is to wait 48 hours after an accident or injury before receiving massage; however every situation is unique. Talk to your massage therapist, as he or she will let you know if it's too soon or if you need your doctor's permission.

Deciding when to receive massage post-operatively can be tricky, as there is no set time-frame for the healing after surgery (or injury, for that matter). It all depends on what the surgery was for and the location and condition of the incision. For something major like heart surgery,the wait would definitely be longer then 6 weeks. For minor surgery, with smaller incisions, the therapist can avoid the area and massage the rest of the body. The client's vitality is also a factor; it takes the body a long time to heal from surgeries, and for all the good that massage does, it can be taxing on an already weakened body.

Massage - especially deep tissue, myofascial release, and cross fiber friction - is a great way to release adhesions. Adhesions are created when separate tissues bind together. They develop around the site of injury in reaction to trauma and can cause pain and restriction. The appearance and pliability of scars is most positively affected by myofascial release and lymph drainage techniques. However, these do not completely elliminate scars, and effectiveness depends on the age and size of the scar. When receiving massage after surgery, your MT will likely start with light pressure around the incision site and ask you how it feels. Your MT will stop at any discomfort and slowly increase the depth if it is comfortable. Communication with your MT is very important, so speak up if a treatment hurts. Your MT will adjust the pressure or technique.

If a doctor is not being consulted, a typical guideline is to a wait 6-8 weeks after surgery before receiving massage. When the scar has fully formed, most of the healing has taken place. Remember that your doctor is most qualified to recommend when massage is safe after surgery.

Do I need to see a doctor before starting massage treatments?

In general, you don't necessarily need to see a doctor first.

If you have a condition or injury that requires doctor's care, you do want to ask him or her whether massage is safe and when. After an auto accident, you should be evaluated by a licensed doctor or chiropractor of your choice. They can diagnose you; a massage therapist cannot. They will be able to prescribe massage therapy if deemed necessary.

Is massage therapy covered by my insurance?

In regard to medical insurance - generally massage is not covered, but it really depends on your insurance policy, so you'll have to call your insurance company and ask.

However, it is covered by your car insurance company when your doctor or chiropractor prescribes massage therapy. Some massage therapy practitioners do not offer insurance billing, so you may have to submit documents to your insurance company yourself. However, there are many practitioners who do bill your insurance company for you. Massage therapy helps to relieve muscle spasm, tenderness, and pain associated with injuries attained in car accidents.

What do I wear during a session?

The massage therapist will be working over your clothes for a chair massage. When receiving a massage on a massage table, it is best to remove all or most of your clothing (some people leave underwear on.) Your massage therapist is trained to drape sheets discreetly over areas not involved in the massage to protect your privacy at all times. Always only undress to your comfort level and discuss any concerns with your massage therapist.

Some bodywork techniques (Shiatsu and Thai Massage for example) are received fully clothed. The practitioner may advise you to wear loose clothing to ensure easy movement.

I don't know what kind of massage I need; I don't know the difference between the techniques.

Any good massage therapist will tailor your massage session to fit your needs and your comfort. School curricular include a variety of techniques, and MT's learn a lot along the way. If your therapist has a long list of training, he or she will know more ways to address your specific needs. However, if one massage therapist does not know as many techniques as another, it does not mean he or she is unable to help you. Therapists are drawn to the techniques that suit them, and many physical issues are resolved equally with a variety of modalities. Often times a massage therapist will specialize in specific conditions. He or she will still be able to adjust the technique to suit you.

Also ~ see our Glossary for information on individual modalities.

How much pressure is too much?

The therapist will add pressure slowly to access the deeper layers of tissue in your body. Much like starting a new exercise regimen, deep tissue massage can cause soreness for the first day or two after the massage. After that, the initial pain you came in with is typically significantly better. Some therapists feel that this pain or some pain during a massage is natural. Other therapists feel that deep tissue massage should never go beyond the pain/pleasure border. Clients, too, have different preferences in how intense a massage should feel. There are some deep tissue techniques that will feel uncomfortable to receive, but your MT should be applying them carefully, slowly, and with communication. You should not be bruised after a massage (unless you bruise easily, in which case it can sometimes happen with the lightest of pressure.) If you do not bruise easily and are bruised after a massage, the pressure was either too deep, applied to quickly, or both. The goal of deep tissue massage is to reach the layer of tissue that needs to be released, and apply enough pressure to feel that release happen. The amount of pressure this takes varies from client to client.

Why is there a difference in price?

Prices typically vary in two ways:

1. Technique (ie: an hour of Swedish massage may cost less than an hour of deep tissue.)
2. Facility (ie: 2 different businesses may offer similar services at different costs.)

Technique prices may vary because of:
A) The level of expertise a practitioner needs to administer the modality, and
B) The amount of work it takes the practitioner deliver results
Each modality manipulates the body in a different way. The more training a practitioner has in a specific area, the better he or she is able to tailor the technique to meet your specific needs. Each technique also affects the practitioner's body in different ways. Certain techniques are more physically demanding than others. However, most of the more physical modalities are designed for a more specific outcome. If, as a client, you have a complex physical issue to resolve, you may benefit most from a more complex technique. Finding the right bodywork for your needs will be more time and cost-effective for you in the long run.

Facilities base prices on a variety of factors:
A) Expertise of the practitioners
B) Amenities of the facility
C) Reputable products
D) Reputation
E) Other factors like convenience, location, size, etc.
Your spa massage may cost more than a franchise-owned facility. Spas offer a more luxurious environment and higher-end products than a basic massage clinic. Franchise-owned clinics (ie; Keep In Touch, Massage Envy) may differ in price because the true length of sessions are different, and each offers different amenities. When comparing prices on two small businesses, you're probably looking at a difference in experience, location, or cost of upkeep for the business.

Above all, remember that we are educated professionals. We study anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and pathology in addition to various hands-on techniques. We receive continuing education so that we are better able to address your needs. Each of us have our own approach to a session, and our natures appeal to clients differently. What is most important for clients is to find the practitioner who best addresses their individual circumstances.

Why didn't my therapist give me a full-body massage?

Before each massage, your therapist will discuss your expectations for that session. If you want a full-body massage (head, face, neck, shoulders, arms, hands, abdomen, legs, feet, back, and hips,) your therapist will have to adjust accordingly the amount of time spent on each body part. Full-body sessions are most common in relaxation and Thai massages. If you have a specific complaint, you may benefit most from the therapist spending more time in that area (or those areas) and omitting work on other parts of the body.

My therapist told me I need to come back. I thought my pain would be gone after one session.

The effectiveness of a session depends on a wide variety of factors. Severity, location, duration, and cause of pain are all things to consider. Additionally, the habits, attitude, and physical condition of each client impacts the success of any form of therapy. Sometimes one session will eliminate your pain. If you've lived with an issue for ten years, however, expecting one massage to resolve it is unrealistic. Your body will respond and heal at its own rate. Taking care of yourself between sessions will make a dramatic difference in your therapy. Our goal as practitioners is to help YOU take control of your own well-being. This may take patience and diligence. If you feel that your practitioner is taking advantage of you, discuss your concerns with him or her, or seek a second opinion. If you feel that one of MTBG's practitioners is practicing unethically, please contact us with your concerns.

What's with all the water?

If you've received massage or bodywork, you've probably heard that you need to follow that session by drinking water. There is actually a lot of debate on how much water a person needs to drink and whether it's as effective as we think. Practitioners are taught that the body needs water to perform the functions necessary to maintaining homeostasis. Massage and bodywork manipulates tissues and fluid; we learn that drinking water helps to flush out toxins, transport nutrients, and optimize the body's own healing process. We are neither nutritionists nor doctors; we suggest drinking water based on the belief that it minimizes the uncomfortable side-effects of massage and aids the work we have completed. Individual practitioners may have separate guidelines as to how much water is helpful. Ultimately, this depends on your body, nutrition, and lifestyle. Here are some resources on water:

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/water/NU00283

http://www.naturodoc.com/library/nutrition/water.htm

http://www.diet-blog.com/archives/2007/06/07/how_much_water_should_you_drink.php

		When is too soon after an accident, surgery or injury for massage? When in doubt, it's always a good idea to check with your doctor. In most injury cases, massage therapy from a well-trained therapist is very helpful in any stage of the healing process. MT's have been trained to help relieve inflammation, pain, and restriction. A general rule is to wait 48 hours after an accident or injury before receiving massage; however every situation is unique. Talk to your massage therapist, as he or she will let you know if it's too soon or if you need your doctor's permission. Deciding when to receive massage post-operatively can be tricky, as there is no set time-frame for the healing after surgery (or injury, for that matter). It all depends on what the surgery was for and the location and condition of the incision. For something major like heart surgery,the wait would definitely be longer then 6 weeks. For minor surgery, with smaller incisions, the therapist can avoid the area and massage the rest of the body. The client's vitality is also a factor; it takes the body a long time to heal from surgeries, and for all the good that massage does, it can be taxing on an already weakened body. Massage - especially deep tissue, myofascial release, and cross fiber friction - is a great way to release adhesions. Adhesions are created when separate tissues bind together. They develop around the site of injury in reaction to trauma and can cause pain and restriction. The appearance and pliability of scars is most positively affected by myofascial release and lymph drainage techniques. However, these do not completely elliminate scars, and effectiveness depends on the age and size of the scar. When receiving massage after surgery, your MT will likely start with light pressure around the incision site and ask you how it feels. Your MT will stop at any discomfort and slowly increase the depth if it is comfortable. Communication with your MT is very important, so speak up if a treatment hurts. Your MT will adjust the pressure or technique. If a doctor is not being consulted, a typical guideline is to a wait 6-8 weeks after surgery before receiving massage. When the scar has fully formed, most of the healing has taken place. Remember that your doctor is most qualified to recommend when massage is safe after surgery.
		Do I need to see a doctor before starting massage treatments? In general, you don't necessarily need to see a doctor first. If you have a condition or injury that requires doctor's care, you do want to ask him or her whether massage is safe and when. After an auto accident, you should be evaluated by a licensed doctor or chiropractor of your choice. They can diagnose you; a massage therapist cannot. They will be able to prescribe massage therapy if deemed necessary. Is massage therapy covered by my insurance? In regard to medical insurance - generally massage is not covered, but it really depends on your insurance policy, so you'll have to call your insurance company and ask. However, it is covered by your car insurance company when your doctor or chiropractor prescribes massage therapy. Some massage therapy practitioners do not offer insurance billing, so you may have to submit documents to your insurance company yourself. However, there are many practitioners who do bill your insurance company for you. Massage therapy helps to relieve muscle spasm, tenderness, and pain associated with injuries attained in car accidents.
		What do I wear during a session? The massage therapist will be working over your clothes for a chair massage. When receiving a massage on a massage table, it is best to remove all or most of your clothing (some people leave underwear on.) Your massage therapist is trained to drape sheets discreetly over areas not involved in the massage to protect your privacy at all times. Always only undress to your comfort level and discuss any concerns with your massage therapist. Some bodywork techniques (Shiatsu and Thai Massage for example) are received fully clothed. The practitioner may advise you to wear loose clothing to ensure easy movement. I don't know what kind of massage I need; I don't know the difference between the techniques. Any good massage therapist will tailor your massage session to fit your needs and your comfort. School curricular include a variety of techniques, and MT's learn a lot along the way. If your therapist has a long list of training, he or she will know more ways to address your specific needs. However, if one massage therapist does not know as many techniques as another, it does not mean he or she is unable to help you. Therapists are drawn to the techniques that suit them, and many physical issues are resolved equally with a variety of modalities. Often times a massage therapist will specialize in specific conditions. He or she will still be able to adjust the technique to suit you. Also ~ see our Glossary for information on individual modalities.
		How much pressure is too much? The therapist will add pressure slowly to access the deeper layers of tissue in your body. Much like starting a new exercise regimen, deep tissue massage can cause soreness for the first day or two after the massage. After that, the initial pain you came in with is typically significantly better. Some therapists feel that this pain or some pain during a massage is natural. Other therapists feel that deep tissue massage should never go beyond the pain/pleasure border. Clients, too, have different preferences in how intense a massage should feel. There are some deep tissue techniques that will feel uncomfortable to receive, but your MT should be applying them carefully, slowly, and with communication. You should not be bruised after a massage (unless you bruise easily, in which case it can sometimes happen with the lightest of pressure.) If you do not bruise easily and are bruised after a massage, the pressure was either too deep, applied to quickly, or both. The goal of deep tissue massage is to reach the layer of tissue that needs to be released, and apply enough pressure to feel that release happen. The amount of pressure this takes varies from client to client. Why is there a difference in price? Prices typically vary in two ways: 1. Technique (ie: an hour of Swedish massage may cost less than an hour of deep tissue.) 2. Facility (ie: 2 different businesses may offer similar services at different costs.) Technique prices may vary because of: A) The level of expertise a practitioner needs to administer the modality, and B) The amount of work it takes the practitioner deliver results Each modality manipulates the body in a different way. The more training a practitioner has in a specific area, the better he or she is able to tailor the technique to meet your specific needs. Each technique also affects the practitioner's body in different ways. Certain techniques are more physically demanding than others. However, most of the more physical modalities are designed for a more specific outcome. If, as a client, you have a complex physical issue to resolve, you may benefit most from a more complex technique. Finding the right bodywork for your needs will be more time and cost-effective for you in the long run. Facilities base prices on a variety of factors: A) Expertise of the practitioners B) Amenities of the facility C) Reputable products D) Reputation E) Other factors like convenience, location, size, etc. Your spa massage may cost more than a franchise-owned facility. Spas offer a more luxurious environment and higher-end products than a basic massage clinic. Franchise-owned clinics (ie; Keep In Touch, Massage Envy) may differ in price because the true length of sessions are different, and each offers different amenities. When comparing prices on two small businesses, you're probably looking at a difference in experience, location, or cost of upkeep for the business. Above all, remember that we are educated professionals. We study anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and pathology in addition to various hands-on techniques. We receive continuing education so that we are better able to address your needs. Each of us have our own approach to a session, and our natures appeal to clients differently. What is most important for clients is to find the practitioner who best addresses their individual circumstances.
		Why didn't my therapist give me a full-body massage? Before each massage, your therapist will discuss your expectations for that session. If you want a full-body massage (head, face, neck, shoulders, arms, hands, abdomen, legs, feet, back, and hips,) your therapist will have to adjust accordingly the amount of time spent on each body part. Full-body sessions are most common in relaxation and Thai massages. If you have a specific complaint, you may benefit most from the therapist spending more time in that area (or those areas) and omitting work on other parts of the body. My therapist told me I need to come back. I thought my pain would be gone after one session. The effectiveness of a session depends on a wide variety of factors. Severity, location, duration, and cause of pain are all things to consider. Additionally, the habits, attitude, and physical condition of each client impacts the success of any form of therapy. Sometimes one session will eliminate your pain. If you've lived with an issue for ten years, however, expecting one massage to resolve it is unrealistic. Your body will respond and heal at its own rate. Taking care of yourself between sessions will make a dramatic difference in your therapy. Our goal as practitioners is to help YOU take control of your own well-being. This may take patience and diligence. If you feel that your practitioner is taking advantage of you, discuss your concerns with him or her, or seek a second opinion. If you feel that one of MTBG's practitioners is practicing unethically, please contact us with your concerns. What's with all the water? If you've received massage or bodywork, you've probably heard that you need to follow that session by drinking water. There is actually a lot of debate on how much water a person needs to drink and whether it's as effective as we think. Practitioners are taught that the body needs water to perform the functions necessary to maintaining homeostasis. Massage and bodywork manipulates tissues and fluid; we learn that drinking water helps to flush out toxins, transport nutrients, and optimize the body's own healing process. We are neither nutritionists nor doctors; we suggest drinking water based on the belief that it minimizes the uncomfortable side-effects of massage and aids the work we have completed. Individual practitioners may have separate guidelines as to how much water is helpful. Ultimately, this depends on your body, nutrition, and lifestyle. Here are some resources on water: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/water/NU00283 http://www.naturodoc.com/library/nutrition/water.htm http://www.diet-blog.com/archives/2007/06/07/how_much_water_should_you_drink.php