Questions and Answers

What is the difference between chiropractic, massage therapy and physical therapy?

Here is what the American Medical Association says: "Manipulative therapies attempt to treat illness by moving parts of the body. Manipulative therapies include chiropractic, massage therapy and physical therapy.... Chiropractors focus on the relationship between the structure of the body (primarily the spine) and how the body works. It is based on the belief that health can be restored through manipulation of the spine. Massage therapists manipulate the soft tissue of the body to relieve so-called restrictions (tightenings) and return the tissues to normal function. Physical therapists evaluate a person's physical abilities and develop and carry out a treatment program designed to help regain muscle strength, mobility, flexibility, and coordination."
Having been a client of chiropractors, massage therapists and physical therapists, I know each one of them has a proper place in healing and supporting an individual's health and wellness plan.

What type of massage do I use in my practice?

My training falls into two categories---Swedish and Deep tissue. Seated massage -- is given in a special ergonomically designed massage chair with the client fully clothed. The focus is on the upper body including the lower back, the mid back, the upper back and shoulders, the neck and scalp. Seated massage is provided at Hair Graphics on Tuesdays and Thursdays by signing up a few days in advance. Table massage, the most common type of massage, is also provided at Hair Graphics. Most of the body is included in a table massage except areas that are specifically contraindicated for medical reasons or you have asked to be excluded.

How much does a massage cost?

Seated Massage at Hair Graphics
15 minute massage session in an ergonomically designed chair, which includes: massage on the shoulders, scalp, arms, hands, fingers, and a gentle neck stretch. $17.00
Full body table massage at Hair Graphics
50 minutes $55.00
Home Visit in Randolph County
75 minute table massage session-- $99.00

Do I need to remove my clothes in a table massage session?

This is a matter of personal preference. Traditionally, if you are receiving a relaxation Swedish massage,you would remove your clothing and be draped with a sheet. You may also choose to leave your underwear on, or I can do the massage with all of your clothing intact by using compression strokes through the clothing.

How much actual time will the massage session take?

The amount of time for your session includes three parts: a. the health assessment--where we discuss your general health b. the actual time while you are on the table receiving the massage, and c. follow-up discussion after the session. All three phases requires about 75 minutes for an office session, and 2 hours for a home visit (which entails set-up and take-down time).

Payment

Credit card, check or cash at Hair Graphics. On home visits I require a check or cash.

Other information about my massage practice.

Privacy
Massage is a personal service. I treat relationships with my clients as would any health practitioner--with utmost respect and privacy. A WV state required Code of Ethics is also posted in my office for your information.

Hair Graphics
Cindy Terry, the owner of Hair Graphics, and I are experimenting with ways to provide her customers a convenient way to receive massage as an addition to her other spa treatments. During this time will be working almost exclusively at Hair Graphics. If you have any suggestions that would make the massage program better please tell us.

Home Visits
When I am requested by a customer to have a home visit, I will be providing this service directly to you as a personal convenience.

When is massage NOT indicated?

With certain circulatory ailments, especially phlebitis/thrombosis; high fevers; infectious diseases; cardiac problems; certain skin conditions; inflamed or infected injuries; areas of hemorrhage or heavy tissue damage; recent fractures or sprains...
Deep massage is contraindicated in people with active cancer or undergoing chemotherapy or radiation. It taxes a system already overloaded by the trauma of cancer and it's treatment.

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