FAQ's
To book an appointment please complete the contact me form or call/ text on 07723 030517 if you have any questions to ask me before your treatment email me here.
What is Sports Massage?
Sports massage is a combination of deep massage techniques that are very effective at loosening up tight or restricted areas within the muscles, tendons and superficial ligaments. It is referred to as ‘sports massage’ because this technique is favoured by top level sports people on an ongoing basis as part of their training and competition, but sports massage is equally beneficial to ordinary people who have varying degrees of aches and pains.
Tell me a little more...
Sports Massage is a type of massage that is used to work on athletes of all levels of training from the weekend warrior to professional sports teams.
Sports massage is not a specific technique, but applying whatever type of massage that you know to athletes. It requires extra training in anatomy and physiology as well as working with injuries. A sports massage therapist will need to have an understanding of how the body moves and works during the many sporting events.
What length of appointment should I choose?
Our most popular treatment is the 60 minutes sports massage, as this allows for initial assessment and time to identify the cause of the pain and are generally the best value. But we also offer the 30 minutes and 90 minutes sports massage treatments.
What is Remedial Massage Therapy?
Remedial massage is a deep massage done to create the conditions for the body’s return to normal health after injury. It is used to treat strains, sprains, broken bones, bruising or any injury where the skin is intact. Deep tissue massage removes blockages, damaged cells, scar tissue and adhesion left after injury, speeds up recovery and encourages more complete healing.
Remedial massage is also used for conditions created by lifestyle, for example, repetitive strain injury and back pain. It is designed to increase the flow of blood and lymph, particularly in the injured areas.
How successful is a Sports Massage?
It is often successful where other forms of treatment have failed. The massage therapist needs knowledge of anatomy and physiology to determine where to treat each patient.
During treatment there is tenderness in areas that are being treated, it indicates which muscles and tendons are injured. The therapist uses the patient’s feedback to pinpoint the damaged tissue and to regulate pressure. The results are usually immediate; certainly within 3 sessions a big improvement will be seen with a skilful practitioner. Most patients feel a difference after 1 session.
With many years’ experience the practitioner gains a clear understanding of treating sports and traumatic injuries. They will work with patients while they increase their activity levels back to normal once again. It is remarkable in that patients find themselves spontaneously being able to do things they thought that they couldn’t.
Why choose a Mobile Therapy Service
Very convenient for busy people, you save time because I come to you!
You don’t feel rushed to make way for the next client using the treatment room.
Every session will be tailored to your specific needs on that day.
You can relax straight after the massage because you do not have to drive anywhere.
For those dealing with serious injuries or mobility issues, having a massage therapist come to you might be the only way to experience the benefits of massage.
Evening and weekend appointments are available so you don’t need to take time off work.
It is more relaxing for you to have a massage in your home, because you control the space.
You don't need to worry about parking, traffic, public transport and you save money on petrol.
If you are sleepy after your massage, you can relax and go to sleep straight after.
You can choose your own music, although I can offer relaxing music too.
How far do you travel?
I travel within 15 miles from my base in Neath, with some of the services including a £5 travel fee, in addition to the cost of the service you have booked.
I will travel outside the 15 miles for an additional travel fee, this will be discussed prior to the appointment.
What can I expect from my first massage?
Upon arrival, I will set up my table and working area in the space you have chosen. I will bring all equipment and oils needed. Before your first treatment I will run through the consultation form you will have (hopefully) completed during your booking process, discussing with you any areas of concern or discomfort, any health concerns or conditions, allergies and recent surgery. It is important to list all health concerns and medications so that I can adapt the session to your specific needs without doing any harm. It will also ensure you recieve the most beneficial massage for your body.
This is the perfect opportunity for you to ask all the questions you might have. I shall explain how the treatment will progress, so you know the order in which I will work around your body and when I will be asking you to turn over. So no surprises.
What happens during a massage?
After the initial consultation, I will leave the room, giving you as long as you need to get ready and settle on the table under the towels. It is normal to undress to underwear for a full massage, but you should only undress to the level you are comfortable, so please do not hesitate to discuss this with me, all treatments can always be adapted. Once confirming it is ok to do so, I will re-enter the room and begin the treatment. You will always be covered by plenty of towels and blankets, except the area that is being worked on, to ensure you are feeling comfortable, secure and modest.
If I need you to adjust your position, I will either gently move you or will ask you to move what is needed. Of course you can change your position at anytime to make yourself more comfortable.
Can I talk during my massage?
I will check in with you regularly as the treatment progresses, to ensure that you’re happy with the pressure I’m using and I’m working on the right spot. During the massage you are, of course, free to talk at any point; alternatively, if you prefer to keep quiet then that's fine as well! Whatever is the most relaxing for you. After all, it is your massage!
I will bring some relaxing instrumental music that can be quietly playing in the background, which helps many people to relax further. Of course, if you prefer, treatments can be carried out in silence, or you can provide music of your own choosing – we will discuss all the options before we start.
During the treatment, please do not hesitate to let me know if something isn't quite right. For example, the pressure (lighter or deeper), if you are too warm/cold, uncomfortable, the room is too bright, or even if the music is irritating you - let me know!
What should I wear to my massage?
Wear your everyday clothes but preferably something comfy. For a full massage, it’s usual to be undressed to underwear when on the table in order to work most effectively on certain areas, such as the back and legs, but you will always be covered by plenty of towels and blankets to protect your modesty and keep you warm, with only the specific area being worked upon being uncovered.
How often should I have a massage?
It really does depend on what you are looking for. If you are looking for a relaxation massage then every 3-5 weeks may be fine for you. The average for my clients is once each calendar month. However, if you are looking to address a specific problem then more frequent appointments may be beneficial. After the initial treatment, once I have had a chance to evaluate your body's tissues/muscles, I will be better able to advise you on the frequency I recommend for you personally.
How will I feel after my massage?
Most people feel very relaxed. Some people experience a significant reduction, or complete freedom, from an ache or pain. Many people feel slightly slowed down for a short period but then notice an increase in energy and productivity. If you receive a deep tissue massage you may be sore the next day - a hot bath/shower can help to ease this soreness. (Very much like a good workout at the gym!)
Very occasionally, it’s possible to experience what is known as a 'healing crisis' around 24/48 hours after a massage treatment. This is where the body begins its self-healing process and elimination of toxins. You may experience symptoms such as:
• A drop in body temperature
• Tiredness
• Deep sleep or difficulty sleeping and vivid dreams
• Irritability
• An increase in perspiration
• Spots
• Cold/flu-like symptoms
• An increase in urination
• Nausea
• Changes in mood
• An increase in joint or muscle pain
• Headaches
It's nothing to worry about! Not everyone will experience these symptoms, most people don’t experience any of them at all, it mainly depends on the level of toxins and your energy levels at the time. To help you through any 'healing crisis' please ensure you drink plenty of water, sleep, eat a healthy and balanced diet and try not to take any medications such as painkillers as this may interrupt the healing process. A healing crisis is letting you know the body is starting to re balance and detox itself so try not to worry! Always feel free to speak to me with any concerns.