Massage for Men Too

Therapeutic Massage is for Men TOO
It’s a proven statistic. More women than men enjoy the benefits of regular
therapeutic massage. According to the American Massage Therapy Association
(AMTA), statistics from their 2009 national studies reveal 40 percent of women
and only 29 percent of men reported seeing a massage therapist in the past five
years.
Therapeutic massage is clinically proven to provide a wide-number of
important health benefits including stress reduction, pain relief, lower blood
pressure and improvements to the immune system. As a result, healthcare
providers are increasingly promoting the benefits of massage to their
patients.
In AMTA’s 2009 survey, thirty-nine million American adults discussed massage
therapy with their healthcare providers. While physicians led the way in
recommending massage, chiropractors and physical therapists also recommended
massage therapy when their patients discussed it with them. Additionally, more
than three-quarters of massage therapist (76%) indicate they receive referrals
from health care professionals.
So to the 71 percent of men out there not experiencing massage, what’s the
problem?
According to many experts, including licensed massage therapists, here are
some of the questions about massage that men always want to
ask, but are too embarrassed to ask….

1. Do I have to undress and if so, will the therapist be there when
   I undress? Nudity is indeed the number one concern for
   everyone getting a massage. But don’t worry; you should always undress to your
   level of comfort. It’s perfectly acceptable to leave on your undergarments and
   sometimes more, depending on the areas that need attention. If you do disrobe
   (totally or partially) all clients are discretely draped under a sheet with only
   one body part uncovered at a time. Additionally, the massage therapist always
   leaves the room so you’re alone to remove clothing and get under the top
   sheet/blanket. Don’t rush, they will knock and ask if you’re ready before coming
   in – just like at a doctor’s office.
2. What if I have a certain body part that I’m self-conscious
   about? People are indeed concerned about their bodies for
   a variety of reasons; overweight, scars, excessive body hair, etc. Don’t worry,
   massage therapists are used to seeing all shapes, sizes and condition of the
   body and they have an entirely clinical perspective, no different than any other
   health-care provider. However, if there’s a certain part of your body you
   really are subconscious about, just ask the therapist to avoid it.
   
3. I always chat when I get my hair cut, should I talk during the
   massage? If you want to talk, feel free, but don’t feel
   compelled to do so. This is your time to recuperate and relax. The therapist
   should check in with you during the massage to make sure the pressure level is
   correct and that they’re addressing your concerns. Of course, always speak up if
   anything is uncomfortable or you if forgot to mention something
   during the pre-massage consultation.
4. What if I’m uncomfortable with a male (or female) therapist
   giving me a massage? Don’t ever hesitate to specify that
   you would prefer a female or a male therapist. In fact, most massage studios
   will be upfront and ask you for your preference, before
   you have to ask.
5. If it’s a therapeutic massage, am I supposed to tip? I don’t at
   the doctor’s office. Whenever you’re pleased with the
   massage services, a 15 to 20% tip is standard. However, if you’re in a
   clinical/medical setting there really aren’t any ground rules. When unsure,
   don’t be afraid to ask if tipping is customary – either when you arrive or call
   ahead.

So your basic questions are answered and you’re ready for a massage. What
type of massage do you want to experience?
Most massage studios offer a wide range of massage options, which can also be
confusing. For many men, a good place to start is with a therapeutic
sports massage. This is a type of massage technique that focuses on
treating soft tissue aches and pains associated with recreational
activities.
You don’t have to be an Olympian to benefit from sports massage. Whether you
are a regularly sports enthusiast or an occasional athlete (even just a
“walker”), a sports massage is the perfect way to relax tight, overworked
muscles with a mix of techniques and stretches. The areas may include the
hamstrings, quads, calf muscles and glutes. It also helps reduce adhesions
(knots in the muscles) relieving the stress they can place on tendons, ligaments
and joints. Sports massage is also good for those with injuries, chronic pain or
a restricted range of motion.
For all the men who are hesitant about massage therapy, now’s the time to
experience a massage! There are an increasing number of credible massage studios
that always welcome women and men with convenient locations,
plus evening and weekend hours. Whether you choose a therapeutic sports massage
or any one of the many other massage techniques available, you’ll soon learn the
value of regular massage therapy.
Men – Elements Therapeutic Massage is the perfect place for a “first-ever”
massage or regular monthly massage. When you call to
book your appointment we will schedule you with the therapist who best matches
your specific massage needs. Our therapists will talk with you to learn where
the pain is and help you decide what treatment is best for you. Ladies – help
your “significant other” learn about the benefits of massage, treat him to an
Elements gift certificate!
At Elements Therapeutic Massage Spokane, each massage is individually
customized to best fit your health and wellness regimen. Contact one of our
Spokane Elements Therapeutic Massage locations to book an appointment with one
of our specialists for your Spokane Massage.