Mikheal Bodyworks

How can I get a massage when I’m not allowed to lie on my back?

Body changes during pregnancy can make finding a comfortable position to sleep or get a massage a real challenge. Fortunately, there are several safe positions in which you can receive pregnancy massage. During the second and third trimester, pregnancy massage is done with you lying down on one side. The massage therapist will provide you with bolsters and pillows to place between your legs and knees, under your head, belly and arms to ensure that you’re comfortable throughout the session.

Can massage induce labour?

Certain points on the body—the back of the ankle, for example—are considered points of energy tied to childbirth in acupressure massage traditions. However, trained pregnancy massage therapists will avoid these sensitive areas when giving a prenatal massage. Unless, of course, the pregnancy is full-term and labour is the desired outcome!

What do I wear during the massage?

Depending on the primary technique your therapist uses, you may or may not need to undress. For a full body massage, you will undress to your underwear. Your massage therapist will give you privacy to undress to your underwear, and you will be covered with a towel at all times except the area being worked on.

How often can I get a pregnancy massage?

If possible, consider getting a pregnancy massage regularly. Weekly pregnancy massage has been proven effective for relieving leg pain, insomnia, stress, depression, anxiety, and back pain. One study ( https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19646762/ ) showed that mothers who received weekly pregnancy massages delivered babies with healthier birth weights than those who did not.

What should I expect in my first remedial massage session?

Initial consultations often involve a general health screen which includes detailed health history questions, postural assessment, muscle strength tests and orthopaedic tests. The time taken to conduct the general health screen will vary depending on your presenting condition but last between 5 to 15 minutes.

Do I need a referral for remedial massage?

No, but it may help. If you are coming in with an existing injury/illness which has been diagnosed by a health professional such as your GP, chiro, osteo or physio we find a referral letter briefly outlining your condition and your goals towards recovery, along with any relevant investigation reports can help us to plan the most suitable massage session for you. The more information we have, the more successful the outcomes.

Is a massage always appropriate?

No, several medical conditions would make massage inappropriate. That’s why you must fill out the health history forms before you begin your session. The massage therapist will ask general health questions to rule out if you have any contraindications to massage. You must inform the practitioner of any health problems or medications you are taking

Is massage during pregnancy safe?

Pregnancy massage is safe. Pregnancy massage is the most common natural health treatment used by pregnant women in Australia. It is important to choose your pregnancy massage therapist wisely as a well-trained massage therapist will always take careful precautions to make sure you are comfortable and safe throughout a prenatal session.

What oils do you use?

The main oil used is sweet almond oil. Sweet almond massage oil is a light, odourless and non-greasy oil that is easily absorbed to protect and nourish the skin leaving it soft and smooth. Highly nutritious, rich in protein, minerals and vitamins, sweet almond oil is suitable for use on all skin types and is especially nourishing on dry or sensitive skin. If you have a sensitivity to certain types of oils or lotion please bring it to the massage therapist’s attention.

Is it normal to feel sore after a massage?

Yes, it’s normal to feel sore after a massage. Clients may sometimes feel muscle tenderness or a feeling similar to delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) after a deep tissue massage. This is a physical response to the inflammation as your body heals. This can happen if your muscles aren’t accustomed to massage or if you have a build-up of lactic acid in your body. In the same way that your body gets used to working out, your muscles need time to get used to being manipulated in certain ways.