What should I expect during my first massage?

• You will have to fill out an online intake form prior to appointment. This is to insure that a massage can be delivered without doing harm dependent on health concerns or medications.

• At your appointment you will be asked general questions to address specific concerns and to determine your massage therapy needs. 

• I will leave the room so that you can undress to your comfort level and will knock to check with you before re-entering the treatment room.

 

Do you accept insurance?

Yes, with a referral from your doctor. I am in network with Aetna, Premera Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna and First Choice Health. If I am unable to bill your insurance, I can provide a superbill which you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement.  I am also willing to work with workman's comp and auto insurance.

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Do I have to completely undress?

This really depends on what type of massage you are receiving. For a full body massage most completely undress, however I am always able to work around any clothing left on. You undress to your comfort level. For Mat-Based Massage/Thai Massage you are fully clothed, so loose fitting or workout clothing is preferred.

 

Will I be covered during the massage?

You will be modestly draped (covered) during the entire massage. Only the part of the body that is currently be worked will be undraped (uncovered). Private areas will never be exposed at any time.

 

What do I do during my massage?

It is your massage! Try to relax to get the greatest benefit. For a Cupping Massage or Thai Massage session you may be asked to participate in your treatment by adding resistance, range of motion, or contraction. You can change your position at anytime to make yourself comfortable. Most close their eyes, enjoy their massage, others prefer to talk, it is completely up to you.

 

How often should I get a massage?

It varies from person to person. For Cupping Massage to address specific conditions it is recommenced to be seen more frequently (possibly twice a week) at first than taper down to a maintenance schedule. For relaxation/stress relief every 2-6 weeks.

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How will I feel after my massage?

You should feel amazing! Or at the very least relaxed, and a decrease in pain. You may feel a little slowed down (massage drunk) and depending on the type of massage you may experience an increase in energy. If you received a deep tissue massage you may feel slightly sore the next day. A hot shower or soak in the tub with Epsom salt can help ease soreness. It is so important to drink plenty of water after your massage.

 

Are there any times I should not get a massage? (Specifically to cupping & barefoot)

• Pregnant or trying to become pregnant

• Active cancer treatment

• Skin Conditions - skin lesions, severe bruising, burns, shingles, rashes, abscesses, staph infection, MRSA, or sepsis

• Fever, cold/flu

• Immune system compromised (lupus, cancer, mononucleosis) 

• Any acute inflammatory conditions

• Loss of sensation (neuropathy, peripheral vascular disorder, diabetes)

• Uncontrolled high / low blood pressure 

• Blood clotting disorders

• On blood thinning medication (Warfarin, Coumadin, etc.)

• Stroke / aneurysm 

• Pacemaker, stent or shunt 

• Deep vein thrombosis, varicose veins

• Acute liver or kidney disorders

• Advanced stages of osteoporosis or other bone degenerative conditions

• Recent eye surgery (within the past 72 hours)

• Injections (steroids, cosmetic) 

• Implants within the last 9 months or implants causing discomfort (hip, rods, discs, screws, plates, IUD’s, knee replacement, etc.)

• Any recent (severe) injuries, surgeries or fractures (less than 6 weeks)

 

What should I expect post massage?

Rest & Hydrate. After your session PLEASE drink plenty of water to stay hydrated! Avoid strenuous activity, alcohol, caffeine, try to relax and allow your body time to integrate the work. You may experience some soreness a day or two after your session, especially if you don’t receive regular bodywork. Please get in touch if you have any questions or concerns regarding your treatment.

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Is it appropriate to tip or not tip?

With Alaska Cupping Therapy gratuities are never expected. 

If you loved your massage the best tip is a Google review. Reviews and referral are always appreciated. 

 

What are your cleaning procedures?

Cleaning is done between each and every session - the massage table and every surface areas that is utilized are throughly sanitized. Any Sarga straps, eye pillow covers, towels, pillow cases, sheets, and blankets are always changed for each massage session. All of the cups and hot stones are throughly washed and then placed in a hydrogen peroxide solution for a minimum of 6 hours for sterilization. 

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