Four Paws Massage
Personalized, Outcome-Focused Massage Therapy

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

 

 

1. What should I expect during my first massage session?

 

 

Your first session begins with a brief intake and conversation about your goals, health history, and any areas of concern. From there, the session is fully tailored to what your body needs that day. There’s no set routine — the work is adjusted in real time based on your comfort and how your body responds.

 

 

 

 

2. Do I need to be in pain to benefit from massage?

 

 

Not at all. Massage can be helpful for pain relief, injury recovery, stress management, mobility, and nervous system regulation. Many clients come in proactively to prevent issues, improve performance, or simply feel more balanced in their body.

 

 

 

 

3. How should I prepare for my session?

 

 

Try to arrive a few minutes early, hydrate beforehand, and avoid heavy meals right before your appointment. Wearing comfortable clothing can help, but you’ll undress to your comfort level during the session and remain properly draped at all times.

 

 

 

 

4. What areas do you typically work on?

 

 

That depends entirely on your needs. Some sessions focus on specific problem areas, while others address full-body patterns contributing to pain or tension. We’ll discuss this before we begin and adjust as needed during the session.

 

 

 

 

5. Does massage have to hurt to be effective?

 

 

No. Effective work doesn’t mean pushing through pain. While some techniques may involve deeper pressure, the goal is always productive, therapeutic work — not unnecessary discomfort. I work within your comfort level and communicate throughout the session.

 

 

 

 

6. Can you work with injuries or chronic pain?

 

 

Yes. I regularly work with clients dealing with chronic pain, old injuries, overuse patterns, and scar tissue. Sessions are adapted carefully to support healing while respecting your body’s limits and recovery timeline.

 

 

 

 

7. How often should I get massage?

 

 

Frequency depends on your goals. Some clients benefit from weekly or bi-weekly sessions during periods of pain or recovery, while others come in monthly for maintenance. We can discuss what makes the most sense for you without any pressure or long-term commitments.

 

 

 

 

8. What if I fall asleep during the session?

 

 

That’s completely normal and often a sign your nervous system is relaxing. You don’t need to stay awake or “do” anything — just allow your body to respond naturally.

 

 

 

 

9. What should I do after my massage?

 

 

After your session, hydrate well and take note of how your body feels over the next 24–48 hours. Light movement, stretching, and rest can help support the benefits of the work. It’s also normal to feel relaxed, energized, or mildly sore depending on the session.

 

 

 

 

10. Is massage safe if I’m stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed?

 

 

Yes. Massage can be very effective for calming the nervous system and reducing stress. Sessions are always adjusted to help you feel safe, grounded, and supported — both physically and mentally.

 

 

 

 

11. How do I know what type of massage I need?

 

 

You don’t need to know. We’ll talk through your goals and how your body feels, and I’ll tailor the session accordingly. The focus is on results, not choosing the “right” label.

 

 

 

 

12. Will I need to undress completely?

 

 

You’ll undress to your comfort level. Some clients prefer to stay partially clothed, others fully undress — both are perfectly fine. You will always be professionally draped, and your comfort and boundaries are respected at all times.

 

 

 

 

13. Can massage help with scar tissue?

 

 

Yes. When appropriate, massage can help improve tissue quality, mobility, and sensitivity around scar tissue. Work is done gradually and intentionally to support healing without aggravation.