Frequently Asked Questions

Massage-related questions

Q. how do i know what type of massage i need?

A. You might not, and that's okay! We structure our massage sessions based on the idea that every body is different and a "deep tissue" session might mean something completely different to you than it does to your therapist. That's why sessions at Melt are entirely customized and based on a conversation/consultation you'll have with your therapist upon arrival. You will discuss any issues you're experiencing and hoping to address and you will chat with your therapist about the best ways to accomplish your goals.

That being said, if you know you are looking for a specific modality that would require additional training, like Thai, Shiatsu, or cranio-sacral massage, just communicate that during your booking and we'll match you with the appropriate therapist. These modalities may fall under our larger umbrella of “specialty” massage.

Q. Is There ever a time when receiving a massage is contra-indicated or unsafe?

A. Generally speaking, massage can be very helpful in treating a variety of conditions and complaints. Sometimes the modality, the area massaged, or the depth may need to be adjusted but as long as you are working with a trained therapist, this shouldn't be a problem. That being said, there are some occasions that it might be best to wait to receive massage. If you have a fever, or any other acute inflammation, it's best to hold off. If you are questioning, it is always best to seek the advice of your healthcare professional. 

Q. i have a bone/rib out of alignment. Can massage help?

A. Yes! While any bone or structural adjustments are outside of an LMT's scope of practice, we can certainly address the surrounding musculature that is most likely clenched and trying its best to stabilize your injured area. 

Its also important to consider the value in releasing/relaxing that musculature in conjunction with a chiropractic or other orthopedic adjustment as afterwards, it is possible for the tight musculature to drag your structure right back out of alignment.

Q. i'm pregnant. is there a certain time i should or shouldn't get a massage?

A. Although some therapists prefer not to work on women in their first trimester, prenatal massage can be practiced safely throughout the entire pregnancy up until and even past the due date. It is common for pregnant people to book sessions close to or after their due dates have passed, as working specific acupressure points and promoting relaxation can be an effective and healthy means of stimulating labor. However, it is always good to get any adjunct therapy cleared with your doctor or midwife first, especially if there are any complications.

Q. how is a prenatal massage different from a therapeutic massage?

A. Our prenatal massage is like our therapeutic massage in that is entirely customized to fit your individual needs and goals. You will chat with your therapist and shape the session together. The differences lie in the positioning and some areas where massage is contraindicated throughout pregnancy.

The optimal position for prenatal massage is side-lying, as even specialty tables with cut-outs for the belly strain the uterine ligaments and increase intra-uterine pressure. Pillows are used to put the client in a position that doesn’t create any additional strain. Techniques address the needs specific to pregnancy, and typically incorporate stretching, traction and Swedish/deep tissue massage as well as any other modality your therapist is trained in. 

Q. i am in acute pain. should i wait to get a massage until the pain is less severe?

A. There are some important things to consider when answering this question for yourself. First of all, a massage can be modified when you are in acute pain and while we may not be able to massage the area that is most painful, it is often helpful to work the surrounding areas to relax clenched, overworked, or compensating musculature. Your therapist can help you decide what the best plan for the session might be and that might even involve just working on your feet or scalp -- work that can help to relax your emotional stress brought on by being in pain.

If, however, it will exacerbate the pain to make it over to the studio or any amount of touch causes your body to clench, it may be worth it to wait until you are out of such a severe acute state. When in doubt, listen to your body and/or check with your healthcare professional.