Massage FAQs

What can I expect during my massage?

During your initial visit, you will complete confidential health and medical history as part of your assessment. It is important to advise if you have any medical conditions, are taking any medications (including herbal supplements), or have any specific areas where you’d like more concentration. The Massage Therapist will then work with you to develop a plan that ensures you receive the appropriate treatment. Prior to starting your massage, you will be given privacy to disrobe and relax on the table. A sheet is always used to cover your body, and only the parts being massaged will be exposed. Your Massage Therapist will apply a light cream, lotion, or oil to your skin to reduce the friction created by the massage. At the conclusion of your session, the Massage Therapist will leave the room allowing you time to relax and redress. Depending on the depth and intensity of the massage performed, it is possible to feel mild muscle aches for one or two days afterward. It is recommended that you drink plenty of water, especially post-treatment.

Why would I get a massage?

Research has proven massage to be an effective therapy for the mind and body. Massage therapy can be beneficial to help speed the recovery after surgery, relieve pain, encourage relaxation, and decrease stress and anxiety. In addition, massage therapy helps metabolize and release toxins within the body, People of all ages have benefited from massage therapy. Some specific conditions people seek massage include:

Inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and tendinitis
Stress relief and depression
Headaches and migraines
Muscle spasms, strains, and sprains
Back pain
Repetitive strain injury
Digestive disorders
Circulatory and respiratory problems
Sports injuries
Pregnancy and labor discomfort
Post-injury and post-surgical rehabilitation

Can anyone receive massage therapy?

Yes, massage therapy is appropriate for individuals of all ages, including infants, children, and the elderly; however, there are some conditions for which massage therapy is not appropriate. Talk with your Massage Therapist to learn if you have condition-specific questions to help guide the best course of action.

Are all massages the same?

No, massage can vary from general relaxation and wellness to therapeutic and condition-specific. Many Massage Therapists treat a variety of diseases and disorders while other Massage Therapists concentrate on certain conditions (fibromyalgia) or groups of people such as athletes, performers, women during pregnancy (including labor and delivery), infants, and children. When booking your first consultation, be sure that the Massage Therapist is the right choice for you.

How do I pay for a massage?

We currently accept cash, checks, and credit cards. We also encourage people to utilize health savings if your plan accepts massage therapy.

Are tips included in the price of the massage?

Our service rates are all-inclusive of tips. This also includes add-ons such as cupping, aromatherapy, tuning forks, etc. This policy honors our therapists for their time, expertise, and energy. If you wish to tip your therapist, please note that you cannot use a credit card or gift certificate. Thank you.

What is your cancellation and reschedule policies?

Your appointments are very important to Mastnardo Massage Therapies. They are reserved especially for you. We understand that sometimes schedule adjustments are necessary. Therefore, we respectfully request at least 24-hour notice for cancellations or rescheduling of appointments.

Please understand that when you forget, cancel, or change your appointment without giving enough notice, we miss the opportunity to fill that appointment time, and clients on our waitlist miss the opportunity to receive services. Therefore, we have a strictly enforced 24-hour cancellation and rescheduling policy.

Any appointment missed, late canceled, or changed without 24-hour notice will result in a charge equal to 100% of the reserved service amount.

Do I need a prescription from my doctor or healthcare provider?

No, however, we encourage you to talk with your doctors and healthcare professionals about your use of massage therapy for transparency within the healthcare team. Referrals from a healthcare professional also qualify your massage treatment for a sales tax exemption.

Is massage therapy a regulated profession?

Yes, in Ohio massage therapy has been licensed as a limited branch of medicine for over 100 years (1916). If you are seeking massage therapy for condition-specific reasons it is important to verify the therapist is licensed by the State Medical Board of Ohio, LMT lookup. His/her license should also be displayed in the office.

Is massage therapy covered by my health insurance?

Currently, in Ohio we are not aware of health plans that cover massage therapy, however, we are always open to working with you if you have coverage.

Do I need to remove all my clothing for massage therapy?

The amount of clothing you remove is dependent on your comfort level and the treatment you are receiving. Your comfort is of utmost importance. The Massage Therapist provides a sheet for coverage and warmth during the massage, so you will not be exposed.

Does massage therapy hurt?

There are times when massage therapy can cause slight discomfort. When utilizing therapeutic techniques of this nature, the Massage Therapist will establish a comfort scale with you and obtain your permission prior to treatment. Please give the Massage Therapist feedback during your session and remember, massage does not have to hurt to be effective. You can stop or change the treatment at any time and Massage Therapist will modify her technique to meet your needs.

How often should I have massage therapy treatments?

Research has shown that massage for 60 minutes 2-3 times per week for acute neck/shoulder pain and 1 time per week for eight weeks for osteoarthritis of the knee is most beneficial. However, we know time and money create barriers. We recommend 1 time per week for acute conditions, 1-2 per month for chronic conditions, and 1 per month for wellness.

Still, have questions?