These are going to be a little different than the typical "Frequently Asked Questions" posts. These aren't nearly as technical, but represent what are actually the most frequently asked questions at the clinic. Thanks to my client R.M. for the blog post suggestion!
Q: "Do you see more women or men?"
A: I've never actually crunched the numbers on this one, but if I had to guess, I'd say its fairly split. Perhaps 60% women and 40% men.
Q: "What is the most common age demographic at the clinic?"
A: This might vary for the other staff, but the bulk of my regular clients are in their 30s and 40s. That being said all age groups are well represented. My youngest client was around 2 weeks old and my oldest clients have been well into their 90s.
Q:"Do most people chat away to the therapist during their treatment?"
A: This is fairly split as well. Some clients like to come in, review their health information, talk about their goals for the session, and spend the rest of the time quietly enjoying their massage. Others love to chat and laugh their way through. As long as you're relaxed and comfortable, we're fine with either!
Q:"Does anyone fall asleep during their massage?"
A: Yes! People often feel embarrassed if they slip into a light sleep during treatment, but I always tell people it's not the first time and certainly not the last! I have had clients fall asleep on the table before I even come back into the room to start the massage. I take it as a compliment that you're relaxed enough to fall asleep.
Q:"What is the most common length for a massage appointment?"
A: The majority of appointments are booked for 45 minutes or 60 minutes in length. We do offer 30 minutes and 90 minutes as well, but these are a bit less common.
Q:"Are some people too ticklish to have a massage?"
A: I've come across a handful of very ticklish people over the years, but not one that I haven't been able to treat. For the most sensitive bodies, I can alter my techniques to make a tickle-type reaction less likely. Feet can be a different story, some people just can't do it!
Q:"Don't your hands get sore?"
A: Yes and no. From time to time my hands will get sore to let me know I've been doing too much or I haven't been careful with the way I treat. A lot of the pressure we use comes from our back and shoulders as we lean into the techniques. If we pay attention to our posture and take care of ourselves, we don't have to deal with the pain (that's the goal anyway!).
Q:"Has anyone ever fallen off your Massage table?"
A: Thank goodness, no! I do like to remind people on the first visit to turn over carefully and roll towards me. I stand with the side of my body against the table so if someone rolls a little too far they'll bump into me before the floor! We are also lucky to have a table that is a little wider than average :)
Q:"How long is the typical Massage Therapy education?"
A: I took a three year advanced diploma program in Massage Therapy prior to taking my boards and being certified to practice in Ontario. Some RMTs have fast-tracked the program and completed in two years by utilizing summer semesters, but we are all held to the same standards and need to pass the same written and practical exams at the end.
Q:"Who massages the massage therapist?"
A: I'm lucky to work at a clinic with another RMT! In fact, even before we worked at Bowmanville Valley Massage together, she was my Massage Therapist. Being on my feet all day and having a fairly physical job, I find Massage Therapy to be an important part of my health care regime and I just can't manage to do it myself :)
Have any more questions? Feel free to let me know below and I'll do my best to answer!
Jenna
