DO I REQUIRE A REFERRAL FROM A DOCTOR FOR A MASSAGE WITH A REGISTERED MASSAGE THERAPIST?
You do not require a doctor’s referral to receive massage therapy treatment. However, your insurance company may require a doctor’s referral be submitted to them in order for your massage therapy treatment to be covered. If you are a new patient and planning to use your extended health benefits, please check with your insurance provider prior to coming in.
There may be times when your therapist requires approval from your doctor prior to treatment (ie. if you have cancer or have had recent surgery).
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HOW LONG AHEAD OF TIME SHOULD I ARRIVE FOR MY MASSAGE?
Many clinics will require you to arrive 10 to 15 minutes ahead of time to fill out paperwork. Since our clinic is paperless, an electronic form will be sent to you upon booking your first appointment, so you will not need to arrive early for your session.
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WHAT CLOTHING DO I WEAR FOR A MASSAGE?
Some clients choose to leave their undergarments on and some prefer to be fully clothed. It all depends on your own comfort.
If you choose to remove your clothing, you’ll be draped with sheets at all times and only the area being treated at the time will be exposed.
Your massage therapist can work with whatever you are most comfortable with.
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HOW OFTEN SHOULD I BOOK A MASSAGE TREATMENT?
This is a great question to discuss with your therapist following your initial assessment. If you are being treated for a specific condition, your therapist will recommend a treatment plan including how often you should be seen.
If you’re looking for regular health maintenance or management of a chronic condition, it is recommended to book a massage approximately once per month.
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HOW LONG SHOULD I BOOK A SESSION FOR?
That depends! If this is your first session and/or you’re dealing with a chronic injury we recommend you book a 60 minute session. If we are working in only one area, such as the neck and shoulders or only the low back, 30-45 minutes may be enough.
If you are unsure about the length of treatment to book we are happy to discuss it with you by email or phone.
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WILL MASSAGE BE PAINFUL?
Contrary to what you may have heard, massage does not have to be painful to be effective. However, some techniques can be temporarily uncomfortable, depending on the area being treated and your goals of treatment.
If you and your therapist decide to use these techniques, the therapist will use a pain scale of 0-10 and work within reasonable discomfort. They may also direct you to use breathing techniques that reduce discomfort and help to relax your muscles.
The therapist will communicate with you throughout the treatment to ensure you are comfortable with the pressure they are applying.
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DOES THE GENDER OF THE THERAPIST MAKE A DIFFERENCE?
All Thrive Therapy therapists are highly trained and experienced. They focus on respectful, safe, and professional treatments. The choice of male or female therapist is completely up to the client based on their goals and comfort level.
If at any time before, during, or after your treatment, you have any questions or concerns, please speak with your therapist.
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