North Country Health Spa



Massage Therapy

Improves circulation by bringing oxygen and other nutrients to body tissues.

It relieves muscle tension and pain, increases flexibility and mobility, and helps clear lactic acid and other waste, which reduces pain and stiffness in muscles and joints.

What are the Benefits of Massage?

People receive massage therapy for relaxation purposes or for a variety of health conditions such as:

• Back/neck pain
  
• Inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and tendinitis
  
• Stress relief and stress-related conditions
  
• Headaches and migraines
  
• Muscle and related conditions such as spasms, strains and sprains
  
• Repetitive strain injury, such as carpal tunnel syndrome
  
• Circulatory and respiratory problems
  
• Post-injury and post surgical rehabilitation

Massage therapy relieves stress. It is thought to help the body's stress response by lowering levels of hormones such as cortisol.

Massage therapy also appears to enhance immune function.

What a Typical Massage Therapy Session is Like

A typical massage therapy session is between 30 and 90 minutes. Your massage will begin with a brief consultation and review of symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle.  

The massage therapist uses a light oil or lotion on the skin and begins the massage. A full body massage usually begins on the back and then moves down to the legs. You will then be asked to turn over so you are face up. The massage continues on your arms, legs, neck, and abdomen.

You are underneath the sheet at all times, and only the part of the body being treated is uncover

How Will I Feel After a Massage?

Most people feel calm and relaxed after a treatment. Occasionally, people experience mild temporary aching for a day. Make sure you drink plenty of water, this will reduce the aching you may experience.

Precautions

Massage therapy is not recommended for certain people:

• People with infectious skin disease, rash, or open wounds
  
• Immediately after surgery
  
• Immediately after chemotherapy or radiation, unless recommended by your doctor
  
• People prone to blood clots. There is a risk of blood clots being dislodged. If you have heart disease, check with your doctor before having a massage
  
• Pregnant women should check with their doctor first if they are considering getting a massage. Massage in pregnant women should be done by massage therapists who are certified in pregnancy massage.

Massage should not be done directly over bruises, inflamed skin, unhealed wounds, tumors, abdominal hernia, or areas of recent fractures.

Additional Massage Tips

• Do not eat a heavy meal before a massage.
  
• If it's your first time at the clinic or spa, arrive at least 10 minutes early to complete the necessary forms. Otherwise, arrive 5 minutes early so you can have a few minutes to rest and relax before starting the massage.