One of the most common concerns about massage therapy is what to wear. The short answer is: wear whatever makes you feel comfortable. Many clients choose loose-fitting clothing to make undressing easier, especially if the therapist will be addressing full-body tension. During your massage session, you’ll be professionally draped with a sheet or towel, ensuring your privacy and comfort at all times. Only the area being worked on is exposed, and the rest of your body remains covered.

Your level of undress is entirely up to you—some people choose to undress completely, while others prefer to keep undergarments on. Whatever your choice, your massage therapist will work within your comfort zone.

If you’re new to massage therapy, your first visit will begin with a brief intake process. This includes reviewing your medical history, current concerns, and specific goals for the session. This conversation helps our massage therapists tailor your treatment to address your unique needs.

Once you’re in the massage room, you’ll be given privacy to undress and lie on the table under a sheet. The therapist will knock before entering and begin your customized massage therapy session, which may include techniques like Swedish massage for relaxation, deep tissue massage for muscle tension, or trigger point therapy for specific pain points.

Communication is encouraged during your session. If the pressure feels too intense or you want to focus on a different area, feel free to speak up. Your comfort is our priority.

Understanding how frequently to receive massage therapy depends on your personal goals, physical condition, and stress levels. For general wellness and stress reduction, a monthly session is often sufficient. However, if you’re recovering from an injury, managing chronic pain, or dealing with high levels of stress, more frequent sessions—such as weekly or biweekly—may be recommended.

At Kinetic Physical Therapy and Wellness, we’ll help you determine the ideal schedule based on your individual needs. Routine massage therapy helps prevent muscle tension from building up and keeps your body functioning at its best.

Massage therapy should not be painful. Some techniques, such as deep tissue massage, may involve firm pressure to release muscle knots or adhesions. However, this should always be within your tolerance. A little discomfort is okay during certain therapeutic techniques, but sharp or intense pain is not.

Your massage therapist will always adjust their technique based on your feedback. If you’re ever uncomfortable, let them know so they can make the necessary changes to ensure a safe and effective experience.

Massage therapy offers a wide range of physical and emotional benefits. Physically, it increases circulation, improves flexibility, relieves muscle soreness, and accelerates recovery from injuries. Emotionally, it reduces stress hormones like cortisol and boosts feel-good neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine.

Here are some of the top benefits of consistent massage therapy:

• Reduced muscle tension and chronic pain
• Enhanced circulation and lymphatic drainage
• Improved sleep quality
• Lowered stress and anxiety levels
• Boosted immune system function
• Greater range of motion and flexibility

Understanding these benefits can help you see how massage therapy supports your overall wellness goals.

For most people, massage therapy is a safe and beneficial practice. However, there are certain health conditions that may require modifications or clearance from a healthcare provider, such as:

• Recent surgeries or injuries
• Active infections or skin conditions
• Pregnancy
• Blood clotting disorders or use of blood thinners
• Certain cardiovascular issues

At your first appointment, you’ll complete a health intake form that helps our therapists determine the safest and most effective treatment plan for you. Always communicate any new or ongoing health conditions so we can provide the best care possible.

Before your massage therapy session, it’s a good idea to drink plenty of water and avoid heavy meals. Hydration helps your body flush out toxins released during massage, and a light meal prevents any discomfort from lying on your stomach.

Arrive a few minutes early so you can relax and fill out any necessary forms. Most importantly, approach your session with an open mind and a willingness to relax—your body will thank you.

After massage therapy, your body enters a healing and recovery mode. You may feel deeply relaxed, mildly sore, or even a bit emotional—this is all part of the natural response to therapeutic touch.

Here are a few post-massage tips:

• Drink water to help flush out metabolic waste
• Rest and allow your body time to integrate the benefits
• Avoid intense exercise immediately afterward
• Take note of how your body feels and communicate with your therapist before your next session