You will be asked to fill out a health history form. This is to ensure that the treatment you receive will be safe and effective for you. Your health history allows your therapist to see if you have certain conditions that may contraindicate certain techniques. In this case, your treatment will be modified for your safety. Sometimes a client will come in complaining of pain in their shoulder and not make the connection to an injury that they may have had in childhood. Client information is strictly confidential and will only be released with your written consent unless disclosure is required by law.
Once you have filled out your forms, you will have a private discussion with your therapist regarding your health history and your reason for seeking massage. Your therapist will ask questions to determine the best course of action for you. Your assesment is considered part of the treatment.
Your therapist may want to perform some orthopedic tests on you to determine the possible cause of your complaint. Your therapist will explain the test to you, explain what they are testing for, and explain any risks that there may be with the tests.
Tests are only performed with your consent. Once your therapist has formed a clinical impression, they will suggest a treatment plan. The entire plan will be explained to you including what areas will be treated, how they will be treated, alternatives, risks, benefits, and side effects of the treatment. You will have the chance to ask questions about the treatment plan and will be asked to give consent.
Once consent is given, your therapist will instruct you to remove whatever clothing you feel comfortable removing. Everyone is different. Although we prefer to have access to the tissues directly, we will happily massage through the clothes if that is what you are most comfortable with. Only the parts of your body that are being worked on will be uncovered, the rest of your body will be covered by sheets and/or blankets You will be shown how to get on the table, be given a chance to ask questions, and then the therapist will leave the room while you disrobe and get on the table.
It can save time if clients fill out the health history form before coming to the clinic for their first visit. If you like, feel free to print this out, complete it, and bring it to your first appointment. If you have questions, please consult your massage therapist at your visit before signing the form.