What to expect from your first massage.

According to national surveys, most Americans know that massage therapy can help relieve stress and pain, temporarily reduce blood pressure and boost the immune system.

If you’ve decided to get a massage but haven’t had one before, you may have questions about what to expect during your massage session.

The American Massage Therapy Association? (AMTA) offers the following answers to common questions about massage:

  • Do I need to remove all of my clothes? No. It’s your choice. Remove clothing to your
    level of comfort.

  • Will wearing clothing affect the benefit? No. If you wear clothing during the massage, make sure the massage therapist can move the parts of your body you expect to be massaged through your clothes. Remember, chair massage is given without removing any clothes.

  • Will it hurt? It shouldn’t. Give the massage therapist complete and accurate health information and let your massage therapist know your needs.

  • What should I do if I experience discomfort? During the massage session, tell your massage therapist if you have any discomfort, whether it is from the massage or from any distractions related to the environment, including amount of pressure, speed of movement, room temperature, music volume or lighting.

  • Do I need to talk? Some people like to talk during a massage session, while others remain silent. Sometimes talking can be a way of unburdening oneself or opening up. Sometimes being silent can be a way of concentrating or letting go of thoughts.

  • What if I fall asleep? Some people do fall asleep. If you do, your massage therapist will wake you at the end of your session. Most people feel invigorated by massage.

  • Do I need to leave immediately when my massage is done? Take your time. Sit up slowly and drink plenty of water.

  • How do I find a qualified massage therapist? AMTA can help you locate an AMTA massage therapist in your area through its free Find a Massage Therapist? national locator service. You can access the service online at www.amtamassage.org or call 1-888-THE-AMTA.

Reporters, writers and editors

For more information on massage therapy and the American Massage Therapy Association, contact Ron Precht, Communications Manager at 847-869-5127, ext. 149 or via email at rprecht@inet.amtamassage.org. AMTA spokespeople are available in most major U.S. media markets.