During a Massage Therapy Session

Sep 12, 2014

You need to make sure the client is always warm, remember a client will often feel cold as the result of a good massage that has thoroughly warmed the muscles. Having an electric blanket on your table on 3 can be used if needed. This keeps the client warm without the massage therapist getting too hot.

If it is a relaxation massage, make sure you allow the client to control the conversation, as there is nothing more off putting to a relaxation massage than a massage therapist that keeps talking.

Keep the client fully draped at all times apart from the area being massaged. Make sure to be very thorough, spending more time on the tighter areas making a mental note of any area that may need more work, so at the end of the massage the client can be informed and another appointment made.

With RELAXATION MASSAGE you would have planned the structure with the client prior to commencing, so they are aware of where you intend starting and finishing the massage. It is important that the massage flows, not too quick or too slow and if you fall behind because of extra time spent in a certain tight area, it’s just a matter of picking up the pace slightly to catch up. When asking them to turn over or you need to move their arm, undo a bra or expose the buttocks always gently whisper so they are aware and not startled.

In REMEDIAL MASSAGE it is always important to have a plan, to be thorough, as well as explain what it is you are trying to achieve, whist continuing to get feed back throughout the treatment. Is it feeling any better?” “Let me know if the pain increases”. Always take notes on your client record card. Document your findings.

At the completion of the massage therapy session give them instructions to get dressed, find out how they are feeling, discuss the next appointment or give referral advice. Clean your table, change towels, get ready for next appointment.

For those who are feeling great we recommend massage therapy once a month for maintenance to keep that great feeling and avoid future problems.

You may with some clients follow up with a phone call two days later to see how they are, or how they went if you referred them to someone else.

Cameron Aubrey

Cameron Aubrey has over 20 years experience in the massage industry, and leads the team as Course Director at Discover Massage Australia. Cameron holds a Diploma in Remedial Massage, and his expertise runs across a large range of massage techniques, particularly sports, Swedish and whole body massage.