Gretchen Wetherby LMT

Bringing Peace to Tired Muscles

Frequently Asked Questions

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Where will my massage or bodywork session take place?
Must I be completely undressed?
Will the practitioner be present when I disrobe?
Will I be covered during the session?
What parts of my body will be massaged?
What will the massage or bodywork feel like?
Are there different kinds of massage and bodywork?
What should I do during the massage or bodywork session?
How will I feel after the massage or bodywork session?
What are the benefits of massage and bodywork?
Are there any medical conditions that would make massage or bodywork inadvisable?

Where will my massage or bodywork session take place?
Your massage or bodywork session will take place in a warm, comfortable, quiet room. Soft music will be played if you choose. You will lie on a table especially adjusted for your comfort.

If you receive a Rossiter System treatment, you wil be laying on a foam pad on the floor in a warm quiet room.

Must I be completely undressed?
Most massage and bodywork techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed; however, it is entirely up to you what you want to wear. You should undress to your level of comfort. You will be properly draped during the entire session.

Rossiter treatments are performed fully clothed.  I will work with a clean pair of socks on my feet, over your clothing.

Will the practitioner be present when I disrobe?
As your Massage Practitioner, I will leave the room while you undress, relax onto the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet.

Will I be covered during the session?
You will be properly draped at all times to keep you warm and comfortable. Only the area being worked on will be exposed.

What parts of my body will be massaged?
A typical full-body session will include work on your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck, abdomen, and shoulders. Please let me know if there are areas that need extra attention and if there are areas you would not like massaged. If you decide during the massage that you are uncomfortable having an area massaged, please let me know and I will move on to another part of your body.

What will the massage or bodywork feel like?
A relaxing Swedish massage is often a baseline for clients. In a general Swedish massage, your session may start with broad, flowing strokes that will help calm your nervous system and relax exterior muscle tension. As your body becomes relaxed, pressure will gradually be increased to relax specific areas and relieve areas of muscular tension. Usually, a light oil or lotion is used to allow your muscles to be massaged without causing excessive friction to the skin. The oil also helps hydrate your skin. You should communicate immediately if you feel any discomfort so that another approach may be taken. Massage and bodywork are most effective when your body is not resisting.

 

The Rossiter System is a complete set of pain-busting manipulation techniques for carpal tunnel syndrome, back pain, sciatica, stiff neck, headaches, and more. I use my foot to apply weight and heat to a troubled area while you stretch to the maximum extent of your range of motion. The weight and heat of the foot allow your fascia to return to its full length.

 

Myofascial Release Massage works with the fascia while the client is on the table. This technique is great for all kinds of repetitive motion and postural issues It works well for carpal tunnel syndrome and plantar fasciitis.  I use my fingers, knuckles, fists and elbows to work specific problem areas.

 

Lymphatic Drainage Massage is very gentle and relaxing.  There is no oil used and the pressure is only enough to move the skin.  This technique is primarily used for cleansing the body and reducing swelling locally.  It is great for reducing swelling after a surgery.  It can also reduce the swelling from Lymphedema.

 

Cupping Massage is fantastic for breaking up scar tissue. By applying silicone cups, the therapist can lift tissue away away from the bones and move it. The cups can move fluid create local inflammation and stretch fascia.


Are there different kinds of massage and bodywork?
There are numerous types of massage and bodywork; various techniques utilize different strokes, including basic rubbing strokes, rocking movement, posture and movement re-education, application of pressure to specific points, and more. We can discuss which methods may be most appropriate for you.

What should I do during the massage or bodywork session?
Prior to the massage, feel free to ask me any questions about the technique or the upcoming session. During the massage, make yourself comfortable. I will either gently move you or tell you what is needed throughout the session (such as lifting your arm). Many people just close their eyes and completely relax, communicating if/when they need more or less pressure, another blanket, or anything else relevant to the session. If you don't want to speak during your massage, feel free to raise your hand. If you have any questions regarding the session or about the particular technique you are receiving, feel free to ask.

How will I feel after the massage or bodywork session?
Most people feel very relaxed. Some experience freedom from long-term aches and pains developed from tension or repetitive activity. After an initial period of feeling slowed down, people often experience increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity which can last for days. Often stuck places in the tissues release during a massage, therefore, it is recommended you drink plenty of water following your massage.  Blood can reach tissues that may have been unavailable due to restrictions in the tissue.

What are the benefits of massage and bodywork?
Massage and bodywork can help release chronic muscular tension and pain, improve circulation, increase joint flexibility, reduce mental and physical fatigue and stress, promote faster healing of injured muscular tissue, improve posture, and reduce blood pressure. Massage and bodywork is also known to promote better sleep, improve concentration, reduce anxiety and create an overall sense of well-being.  Regular massage can help you achieve your athletic goals by improving your range of motion and allowing your muscles to move more efficiently.



Are there any medical conditions that would make massage or bodywork inadvisable?
Yes. That's why it's imperative that, before you begin your session, I ask general health questions. It is very important that you inform me of any health problems or medications you are taking. If you are under a doctor's care, it is strongly advised that you receive a written recommendation for massage or bodywork prior to any session. Depending on the condition, approval from your doctor may be required.

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