Description of a Session
The form of a session will vary depending on the technique used. In general it will begin with an intake interview in which the goals of the patient are discussed, a prior medical history is taken, and any current health concerns, both physical and psychological, are determined. This is usually followed by a description of the therapeutic technique being used, which may include a brief discussion of the underlying philosophical principles of the approach, instruction on the type of feedback encouraged from the client during the session, and possibly a clarification of the therapeutic goals of both practitioner and client.

In some approaches the client partially or fully disrobes and then lies down on a table and is covered by a towel and sheet. In other approaches it is suggested that the client wear loose and comfortable clothing and the session may be done on the floor or on a table. The amount of communication between client and practitioner during a session varies based on the approach and the individuals giving and receiving the session. The duration of a treatment will vary according to practitioner and technique, but will generally be from 1 to 1 1/2 hours. Afterwards specific exercises or self-care instruction is often provided and clients may wish to discuss their experience of the treatment and any changes, both physical and psychological, they have experienced.

Course of Treatment
The course of treatment is highly individual and depends on the therapeutic goals of the patient as well as the length of time a condition has been present. Longer standing health concerns may involve more regular and continuous attention than the acute onset of a specific condition and will benefit from the cumulative effects of consistent sessions. In addition, patients are able to incorporate new input at different rates and bring different levels of body awareness to the therapeutic session. Often these therapies are used as part of an overall stress management plan and in this case the patient may choose to continue ongoing sessions at regular intervals, such as monthly sessions. The treatment plan is always determined by the patient in discussion with the practitioner so the patient’s therapeutic goals can be realistically met.

Side Effects
In the gentler forms of massage side effects are unusual. With deeper tissue work soreness one or two days after a session is possible. Please refer to the section on safety issues for discussion of conditions in which massage is contraindicated.

Safety Issues
Massage is generally to be avoided in conditions of inflammation, thrombotic disease, unhealed wounds, high fever, in the immediate post-operative period, and in cases of transmittable skin diseases. In certain instances foot reflexology may be an appropriate and safe choice to help support the body’s healing process. A conservative approach to the treatment of cancer patients is generally accepted based on a concern for the possibility of metastasis, and research is needed to clarify this issue. While massage can provide beneficial psychological support during cancer treatment, it is not recommended immediately after chemotherapy or radiation therapy. In that case reflexology can be considered as a form of treatment during this time period. In addition, a highly trained practitioner should be sought in patients with emotional or mental trauma or other psychological conditions, as emotions that might arise during a session require a skilled and knowledgeable approach on the part of the practitioner.

Other Modalities That Work Well With Massage Therapy
Massage generally works well with other complementary and standard medical therapies, particularly in its promotion of relaxation and stress reduction. As previously mentioned, however, it is not recommended immediately after radiation or chemotherapy.

Content last modified on Mar 24, 2003