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massage massages best massages worldwide

Best Massages From Around the World

April 15, 2019/1 Comment/in Chiropractic Blog /by Dr. Kent Ferguson

Frequent travelers know how hard it can be hopping on one plane to another. With the constant rush of getting everything packed on time to catching the flight can lead to great physical and mental stress. Therefore, it is important to opt for a safe escapade when these travelling individuals land in their destinations. Here is a breakdown of the best massages around the world.

Swedish Massages

Contrary to popular belief, the Swedish massage did not originate in Sweden. Moreover, it was not even invented by a Swede. A Dutch practitioner incorporated basic strokes with French names to create this massage.

This massage is best known for its ability to soothe frictions using stokes, rubs, and kneads and strikes on the human body with different levels of pressure. Moreover, it is ideal for those that exercise regularly or even athletes, as it can loosen the lactic acids in the body and promote blood circulation.

African Rungu

This massage was first introduced in South Africa, but it is rapidly spreading across the region. The Rungu stick is a symbol of the warriors, which is why it is special.

This massage is done with the help of the Rungu stick so pressure can penetrate deeper into the muscles for better and more effective pain relief. The stick is then moved in circular fashion over the problem areas, which releases tension from within the tissues. Moreover, it promotes blood circulation.

Japanese Shiatsu

Although, acupuncture and herbalism is a form of ancient China, the Japanese brought this into their nation, incorporated their own techniques, and created this massage method.

The meaning of Shiatsu is “finger pressure” which means this massage is all about applying the right amount of pressures to the painful areas. There are many variations of this massage (like cupping and acupuncture). However, the goal is to create a balance in the body.

Hot or Cold Stone Massages

There are different variations of this massage available, but its roots come from Arizona.

The thing to remember when opting for this massage is that the temperature of the stone must be chemically connected with the body temperature. Every therapist has their own way of performing this massage, and sometimes it is even incorporated with others for best results.

Thai Massages

This massage has been around for many generations, but has been modified as time has gone on.

For this, there is movement required from the therapist and receiver. It includes high-pressure rubbing and kneading, but in some cases, the therapist has to move on the body to give the best results. Sometimes the sound of bones cracking is also audible!

Ayurveda

Created with intense Indian influence, this head massage has been around for many generations.

In this massage, the therapist uses oils on the head and begins kneading the head, applying pressure on the temples. They slowly move towards the shoulders, neck, and hands. This allows the body to restore its energy and release tensions.

 

Next time you land, make sure you opt for one of these recommended massages to experience the best time in your destination and so you can stay relaxed.

massages benefits types

The Most Popular Massages

March 18, 2019/0 Comments/in Massage /by Dr. Kent Ferguson

Choosing a massage should not feel like guessing from an unfamiliar menu. Although there are many types of massage therapy, the right appointment depends less on which option sounds popular and more on what your body needs that day. Your goals, comfort level, activity demands, health history, and pressure preferences should all help shape your treatment.

One person may want to unwind after several stressful weeks. Another may need focused attention on muscles that feel tight after working at a computer. An active client might want to address soreness between workouts. Each person arrives with different priorities, which is why a massage should begin with a conversation rather than a predetermined routine.

Understanding several commonly requested massage styles can help you describe what you want. You do not need to diagnose yourself or select every technique in advance. A registered massage therapist can listen to your concerns, assess the relevant tissues, and recommend an approach that fits your goals.

What Are the Main Types of Massage Therapy?

Massage therapy involves hands-on work with muscles, fascia, and other soft tissues. Depending on the purpose of the appointment, a therapist may use flowing strokes, kneading, sustained pressure, movement, stretching, heat, or other suitable techniques.

The names used to describe massage styles are helpful, but they are not always rigid categories. A therapeutic appointment may incorporate elements associated with several different approaches. For example, a therapist might begin with broader movements, spend more time on a tight shoulder, and then introduce gentle stretching.

Pressure can also vary within every style. Swedish massage does not always mean extremely light pressure, while deep tissue treatment should not mean enduring as much discomfort as possible. Your therapist should adjust the session according to your response and feedback.

Swedish Massage for Relaxation and General Tension

Swedish massage is one of the most familiar massage styles. It generally uses smooth, flowing movements, kneading, gentle joint movement, and adjustable pressure across broader areas of the body.

Many people choose this approach when they want to relax, address general muscular tension, or become more comfortable with massage therapy. It can also suit clients who prefer a balanced full-body appointment instead of intensive work on one particular area.

A Swedish-style session may be appropriate if you:

  • Are booking your first professional massage.
  • Want a calming appointment after a demanding period.
  • Feel general tension rather than one clearly defined problem area.
  • Prefer light or moderate pressure.
  • Want massage to become part of your regular wellness routine.

Relaxation and therapeutic value are not opposites. A calming treatment can still address tight muscles, and a clinically focused appointment can still feel comfortable. Tell your therapist whether you would like a quiet session, which areas feel tense, and how much pressure you prefer.

Deep Tissue Massage for Persistent Muscle Tension

Deep tissue massage focuses on deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue using deliberate movements and sustained, targeted pressure. Therapists commonly spend more time on specific areas instead of applying intense pressure across the entire body.

This approach may appeal to people who experience persistent muscular tightness associated with repetitive activity, prolonged sitting, physical work, or demanding exercise. Common focus areas include the neck, shoulders, back, hips, and legs.

Deep tissue massage does not need to be painful to be effective. Excessive pressure can cause guarding, make it difficult to relax, or leave you unnecessarily sore. Useful pressure should feel purposeful and remain within your tolerance. You should be able to breathe comfortably and communicate throughout treatment.

Tell your therapist immediately if you notice sharp pain, numbness, tingling, dizziness, or another unexpected sensation. Your therapist can reduce the pressure, change techniques, reposition you, or stop working on the area.

The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health notes that massage may provide short-term help for certain kinds of discomfort, but research results vary. Massage should not replace appropriate medical assessment for severe, unexplained, worsening, or persistent symptoms.

Sports Massage for Active Bodies

Despite its name, sports massage is not reserved for professional athletes. Recreational runners, gym members, dancers, cyclists, active workers, and weekend athletes may also choose treatment based on their physical demands.

Sports massage typically focuses on the muscles and movements involved in a person’s activity. The therapist may use targeted pressure, compression, movement, and stretching according to the client’s goals and stage of training.

Treatment before an event will likely differ from an appointment during a recovery week. Vigorous work immediately before a competition may not be appropriate, while an appointment after heavy training may focus on comfort and recovery. Tell your therapist about recent workouts, upcoming events, injuries, and changes in your performance.

Consider sports-focused care when you want to:

  • Address muscular tension associated with training.
  • Give overworked areas focused attention.
  • Maintain comfortable movement during an active season.
  • Support recovery between demanding activities.
  • Discuss recurring patterns before they interfere with activity.

Sports massage cannot guarantee injury prevention or faster healing. It works best as one part of a broader routine that may include appropriate training, rest, hydration, nutrition, and professional rehabilitation when needed.

Which Types of Massage Therapy Can Include Hot Stones?

Hot stone massage combines therapeutic touch with the controlled warmth of smooth stones. The therapist may place stones on selected areas or hold them while working with the muscles. Heat can create a comforting experience and may help some clients relax before or during hands-on treatment.

Hot stones do not necessarily define the entire appointment. At OCWC, suitable techniques may be incorporated into a personalized session when they match the treatment goal, the therapist has appropriate training, and the client provides consent.

This approach may suit someone who enjoys warmth, wants a relaxing experience, or finds it easier to settle into treatment when heat is used. However, it is not appropriate for everyone.

Before treatment, tell your therapist about reduced sensation, circulation concerns, skin conditions, recent injuries, pregnancy, medical diagnoses, or medications that could affect your response to pressure or heat. Never hesitate to say that a stone feels too warm. Treatment should remain comfortable, and the therapist can remove the heat immediately.

How to Choose the Right Massage

Start with your desired outcome instead of trying to select a treatment based only on its name. Ask yourself what you would most like to feel or do more comfortably after the appointment.

Use these questions to clarify your priorities:

  • Do I want general relaxation or focused work on a specific area?
  • Is my tension connected to work, exercise, travel, caregiving, or another activity?
  • Do I prefer light, moderate, or firm pressure?
  • Am I preparing for or recovering from an athletic event?
  • Do I enjoy warmth during treatment?
  • Do I have an injury or health concern that may require modifications?
  • Would I prefer one focused area or a broader full-body appointment?

If relaxation and general tension are your main concerns, Swedish-style treatment may be a comfortable starting point. Deep tissue work may suit persistent, localized muscular tightness when firmer pressure is appropriate. Sports-focused massage may fit training and activity-related goals, while hot stones may complement a calming or muscle-focused appointment.

You are not responsible for creating the treatment plan yourself. Explain what brought you in, what you hope to accomplish, and what has or has not worked during previous appointments. Your therapist can then recommend suitable techniques.

What to Discuss Before Your Massage

A brief conversation helps your therapist provide a safer, more comfortable appointment. Complete your health history accurately and mention any recent changes, even if they do not appear directly related to the area you want treated.

Discuss:

  • Recent injuries, surgeries, or medical procedures.
  • Diagnosed medical conditions.
  • Medications that may affect bruising, sensation, or circulation.
  • Pregnancy or recent childbirth.
  • Skin irritation, wounds, rashes, or infections.
  • Unexplained swelling, weakness, numbness, or severe pain.
  • Areas you want addressed or prefer not to have treated.
  • Positioning concerns and mobility limitations.
  • Your pressure, temperature, music, and conversation preferences.

Consent continues throughout the appointment. You may request a pressure change, decline a technique, ask a question, or end the treatment at any time. Professional draping keeps areas not being treated covered, and you control how much clothing you remove.

Check with an appropriate healthcare professional before booking if you have a serious or recent injury, active infection, blood-clotting concern, unexplained symptoms, or another condition that could affect treatment. Massage should not delay necessary medical care.

Find the Right Massage at OCWC

The most suitable massage is not necessarily the strongest, longest, or most elaborate option. It is the one that reflects your goals, respects your comfort, and accounts for your health history.

At Oliver Chiropractic Wellness Clinic, registered massage therapists personalize care according to each client’s needs. Your appointment may focus on relaxation, stubborn muscle tension, physical activity, comfortable movement, or ongoing health maintenance. Your therapist will discuss the available options and help you establish a practical treatment focus.

Learn more about massage therapy at Oliver Chiropractic Wellness Clinic or view current availability and book a massage appointment through

Massage, Benefits of Massage

7 Reasons To Get A Massage

December 17, 2018/0 Comments/in Chiropractic Blog, Health /by Dr. Kent Ferguson

In this fast-paced world, it is easy to get tensed and stressed, which is why it is important for individuals to find alternative methods in making them feel better. Although, some individuals find unhealthy alternative methods, the best one would be to get a massage.

Massages are incredibly important for individuals, but many fail to understand that. To help you grasp a better understanding, here are the top reasons why you should opt for a massage.

1.      Massage can readjust your posture

Sitting in the same position all day or leaning in to use your phone is not good for your posture. Getting regular massages will straighten your posture and alignment while relieving the pains from your back and neck. The American Massage Therapy Association claims that massages are known to relieve tensions.

2.      Massage can help you sleep better

Regular massages aid with the blood circulation, which means it will help you sleep better. If you are suffering from insomnia or sleepless nights, opting for regular massage would be the best option. If you cherish your sleep, get a massage.

3.      Massage can help ease your anxiety

Massages are known to lessen anxiety. If you have gotten it before, you must know how amazing it feels. A study done in Korea showed how a simple massage can lower the heart rate and blood pressure. The simple touch of a hand can make sure your anxiety is lessened.

4.      Massage can help alleviate headaches

If you have been suffering from migraines or chronic headaches, it is important to talk to your doctor about them. However, if you know the reason behind these pains, you need to start getting regular massages. There have been endless studies done that have proven that massages are great at lessening migraines and chronic headaches.

5.      Massage can treat all kinds of pains

Not only do massages help athletes with their pains, but also massages can help people with all kinds of bodily pains. Although, painkillers are the go-to option for most people, this type of medication has many side effects despite the immediate pain relief. Getting a massage will help ease the pain while it leaves you feeling relaxed and much better.

6.      Massage can lessen the effects of chemo and other treatments

Studies and many researches have proven that if you have undergone (or are undergoing) chemotherapy or any other intense treatment for severe illnesses, massage is the best option. These studies have shown that massage can alleviate nausea after getting the treatment. The best part is that massage is known to make the pain less as well when you are undergoing these treatments.

7.      Massage can make your mood better

With lesser pain in your body and no anxiety, massages will definitely make your mood better. Therefore, if you are willing to make your mood better, a 30-minute massage will do the job. According to science, massages are supposed to make you feel better.

These are the top reasons why you should opt for massages. They will improve the quality of your life, while making you feel like a new and better person.

If you are in the market for a high quality massage, Oliver Chiropractic Wellness Clinic has 2 very skilled therapists on staff. Give our clinic a call at (780)455-2112 or visit www.ocwc.ca to learn more about our therapists.

 

 

massage therapy tips,massage therapist, edmonton

4 Tips on Choosing the Right Massage Therapist

November 26, 2018/0 Comments/in Chiropractic Blog /by Dr. Kent Ferguson

Be honest, have all your massages been as amazing as you have thought they were? Probably not, and there could be many reasons for this. Fortunately there are ways that will help you determine the best massage therapist for yourself. Simply keep the following tips in mind and you are good to go.

1.      Be Aware Of Your Goals

When it comes to massages, every person has different goals. Some people want massage therapy on a particular area to relieve pain, some are getting massages to treat medical conditions, while other are doing it for mere enjoyment. It will be important to clearly communicate your goals with your massage therapist. It will ensure you are getting the treatment and results you desire.

2.      Learn About the Different Massages

Since there are so many types of massages, it is important that you understand the differences between them. There are massages that are specifically made to treat medical conditions, some are for recreational purposes, and others are for athletes. Take time to research different types of massage therapy so that you are educated before your visit. If you require more information, make sure to ask your massage therapists question before you begin your treatment.

3.      Figure Out Your Preferences

After determining your goal and the method you would like, you will need to decide your preferences. This means you need to know where you want the treatment to take place.

Do you want an at-home massage or do you want to go to the massage therapist? What type of environment would you like to go to? Or, if you have additional requests like dim lights, relaxing music, or scented candles.

After figuring out your preferences, you can talk to the therapist and make arrangements.

4.      Homework

Before finalizing your therapist, there are a few things you need to take into consideration. You must ask them a few questions regarding their work.

How long they have been doing this for, whether or not they are certified and so on. You can also read reviews regarding your therapist and call them up to ask any additional questions.

By following these simple tips, you will definitely book the best massage therapist in your area. Moreover, you will be getting the maximum benefits while you are relaxing your body.

For more information about our clinic check out our website @ www.ocwc.ca. To book your next massage therapy appointment give us a call @ 780-455-2112.

Rules of Getting Massages

July 30, 2018/0 Comments/in Chiropractic Blog /by Dr. Kent Ferguson

Although, you will be opting for a massage to get ultimate relaxation, there still are a few responsibilities on your shoulders. You have to be vocal about your experience so you can get the maximum benefits out of this session.

You need to tell your masseuse if it feels good or if the pressure needs to be stronger. In addition, keep in mind, hurting is not “ok” unless you want it to hurt. Getting regular massages are supposed to relieve you from all bodily pains.

If you want the most benefits out of your massage, here are the rules you need to follow:

Slacking is Acceptable

This is your time to be relaxed and loose. Go in ultimate relaxation mode and trust your therapist. If you fall asleep, good! This means the massage was good and effective.

Keep Breathing

You have probably heard this before, but we will repeat it again. Breathing properly will definitely heighten the results you are getting. Moreover, it will make the purification process better and provide you with more relaxation. Since you will be getting regular massages, practice your breathing.

Time to Let Go

Give your body’s controller to the therapist. Give him/her the right to move your body the way they want to. You must not move until and unless you are told to.

No Thinking, Just Feeling

Go into the massage session with a clear mind. Everything floating in your mind needs to wait until the session is over. When you are in your massage room, the only thing that needs to matter is the power of feel. Moreover, if something feels uncomfortable, feel free to tell the masseuse.

“No Pain, No Gain”

Massages are not supposed to be painful. Since there will be muscle knots in your body, when the masseuse is trying to relieve them, you might feel a little pain. You just need to keep your body firm, but let your masseuse know if it gets too painful for you.

Embrace All Feelings

People feel all kinds of emotions during their massage sessions. While some laugh, others tend to cry. If this happens, this means that your emotional tensions are also being relieved.

Be Vocal

When you are getting your massage, you are in charge. If you feel that there need to be adjustments made, make sure you are vocal about it. Your masseuse will be waiting for your feedback, so do not be shy.

Positioning

You must be placed in a position that enables utmost relaxation. No need to bend your body or be on one side, you just need to be comfortable. Although, sometimes some muscles are contracted, just try to relax your body as much as you can.

 

With these massage rules in your mind; you will be able to get the most benefits out of one massage session. Keep in mind, if you want long-term benefits, you will need to get regular massages.

Call Oliver Chiropractic Wellness Clinic @780-455-2112 to book your next massage today.

types of massage therapy

Which Type of Massage Is Right for You?

July 9, 2018/0 Comments/in Chiropractic Blog /by Dr. Kent Ferguson

An Edmonton Guide

You know your body needs attention, but choosing from the many types of massage therapy can feel like another task on an already crowded to-do list. Should you book a relaxation massage for stress, request deep tissue work for stubborn tension, or choose a sports-focused treatment to support your active lifestyle?

The right answer depends less on which treatment sounds most intensive and more on what you want from your appointment. Your current symptoms, activity level, health history, pressure preference, and wellness goals can all help guide the decision.

What Are the Main Types of Massage Therapy?

Massage therapy includes a range of hands-on approaches to muscles and other soft tissues. Some sessions emphasize relaxation, while others focus on a particular area, movement restriction, or recovery goal.

These approaches are not rigid categories. A Registered Massage Therapist may combine suitable techniques and adjust the session based on your needs, comfort, and response to treatment.

Relaxation Massage for Stress and General Tension

A relaxation massage generally uses smooth, flowing movements and light-to-moderate pressure. The goal is to create a calm experience while easing general muscle tension.

You might consider this approach when:

  • Stress has left you feeling tense or run down
  • You want a full-body massage without intensive pressure
  • You are new to professional massage
  • You want to make relaxation part of your wellness routine
  • Your body feels tired, but you do not have a specific injury or problem area

Gentle treatment does not mean ineffective treatment. When stress contributes to tight shoulders, a clenched jaw, or difficulty unwinding, a calming massage may be more appropriate than an intense session.

Therapeutic and Deep Tissue Massage for Focused Concerns

Therapeutic massage focuses on an individual concern or functional goal. Your therapist may use slower movements, sustained pressure, and other manual techniques to work with areas of persistent muscle tension.

Deep tissue techniques may be appropriate when you experience:

  • Recurring neck or shoulder tension
  • Tightness related to desk work or repetitive tasks
  • A particular area that feels restricted
  • Muscle tension associated with an active lifestyle
  • Ongoing discomfort that has already been medically assessed

Deep tissue massage is not simply a harder version of relaxation massage. The therapist works deliberately and adapts the pressure to the tissue, treatment goal, and your comfort.

You should be able to breathe normally and avoid bracing against the pressure. Tell your therapist when a sensation feels too intense, sharp, or otherwise uncomfortable.

Sports Massage for Active Bodies

Sports massage is not reserved for professional athletes. It may suit runners, cyclists, weightlifters, dancers, recreational athletes, and anyone whose work or hobbies place repeated demands on particular muscle groups.

The treatment may focus on:

  • Areas repeatedly used during training
  • General recovery between workouts
  • Mobility needed for a particular activity
  • Muscle tension caused by repetitive movement
  • Preparing for or recovering from an event

Timing matters. A vigorous treatment immediately before an important competition may not be the best choice, while a lighter or more targeted session could fit the situation. Tell your therapist about your training schedule, recent workload, upcoming events, and any injuries being managed by another healthcare provider.

Hot Stone and Specialized Massage Options

Some people benefit from treatments that incorporate heat, tools, movement, or focused soft-tissue techniques.

Hot stone massage combines massage with the warmth of smooth, heated stones. The warmth can create a soothing experience and may help tight muscles feel more comfortable during treatment.

At Oliver Chiropractic Wellness Clinic, available options may also include cupping, RAPID NeuroFascial Reset, and stretch therapy. Depending on your assessment and therapist, these approaches may be used to support goals related to tension, mobility, or movement restrictions.

Not every technique is suitable for every person. Ask whether a specialized service fits your health history and whether your chosen therapist offers that treatment.

How to Choose the Right Massage for Your Body and Goals

Start with the result you want rather than trying to diagnose yourself. A clear description of how you feel and what you want to improve gives your therapist more useful information than requesting the strongest treatment on the menu.

Choose Among Types of Massage Therapy by Your Main Goal

Use this quick guide as a starting point:

  • For stress and general relaxation: Consider a relaxation-focused treatment with light or moderate pressure.
  • For persistent muscle tension: Ask about a therapeutic appointment that can focus on the affected areas.
  • For sports or workout recovery: Discuss your activity, training schedule, and performance goals when booking.
  • For warmth and a calming experience: Ask whether hot stone massage is appropriate for you.
  • For mobility or flexibility: A session incorporating stretching or movement-focused techniques may be helpful.
  • For recurring discomfort: Explain where it occurs, what aggravates it, and whether it has been assessed.
  • For ongoing wellness maintenance: Work with your therapist to choose an approach and schedule based on how your body responds.

You do not need to arrive with the perfect treatment name. A skilled therapist will ask questions, assess your needs within their scope of practice, and recommend an appropriate approach.

Match the Pressure to Your Comfort, Not Your Pain Tolerance

One of the most common massage misconceptions is that more pressure always creates better results. In reality, effective pressure depends on the person, the area being treated, and the goal of the session.

Pressure that causes you to tense your muscles, hold your breath, or pull away may work against a comfortable treatment. Productive massage can feel focused or intense, but it should remain within a level you can tolerate.

Pressure preferences can also change. You may enjoy firm work around your shoulders but need a gentler approach elsewhere. You might prefer a deeper session one month and a calming treatment the next.

Communication is part of the treatment. You can ask for more or less pressure at any time.

Types of Massage Therapy at a Glance

ApproachCommon goalTypical pressureMay suit you when
Relaxation massageCalming and general tension reliefLight to moderateYou feel stressed, tired, or new to massage
Therapeutic massageAddressing a specific concernCustomizedYou have a defined area of tension or restriction
Deep tissue techniquesFocused work on persistent tightnessModerate to firmYou prefer slower, targeted treatment
Sports massageSupporting activity and recoveryCustomized to timing and goalTraining or repetitive activity affects how you move
Hot stone massageWarmth and relaxationUsually moderate and adjustableHeat helps you feel comfortable and relaxed
Stretch therapyMobility-focused careGuided and controlledYou want to work on flexibility or movement
RAPID NeuroFascial ResetTargeted soft-tissue treatmentTechnique-specificYou have an appropriate pain or mobility concern
CuppingAn addition to a broader treatment planAdjustable suctionYour therapist recommends it for your goals

This comparison is a guide rather than a diagnosis. Your therapist can help refine the choice after discussing your health history and expectations.

Why the “Deepest” Massage Is Not Always the Best Massage

Firm pressure has a place, but intensity should not become the measure of a successful massage. The most appropriate session is the one that matches your goal and allows your body to respond without unnecessary discomfort.

Someone dealing with stress and poor sleep may prefer a calming full-body appointment. A desk worker with a persistent tight area may benefit from focused therapeutic work. An active person may need treatment tailored to a training schedule rather than an indiscriminately forceful massage.

A thoughtful therapist adjusts the session as it progresses. That may mean working more slowly, changing pressure, spending additional time on one area, or combining techniques.

Treat massage as a collaborative appointment. You bring knowledge of how your body feels; your therapist brings clinical training and hands-on experience.

What to Tell Your Massage Therapist Before Treatment

A short conversation before your massage helps your therapist plan a more personalized session. Be ready to share:

  • Where you feel pain, tightness, or restriction
  • When the problem began
  • Which activities make it better or worse
  • Whether your concern affects work, exercise, sleep, or daily movement
  • Recent injuries, surgeries, or changes in your health
  • Relevant medications or medical advice
  • Pregnancy or postpartum considerations
  • Areas you do not want treated
  • Your preferred pressure
  • What you hope to feel or do more comfortably afterward

Clear goals can be simple. You might want to turn your head more comfortably while driving, recover from a demanding training week, reduce general shoulder tension, or make time for genuine relaxation.

Keep communicating during treatment. Your therapist cannot feel exactly what you feel, so timely feedback helps them adjust.

When to Postpone Massage or Seek Medical Guidance

Massage therapy can support a broader health and wellness plan, but it does not replace medical diagnosis or urgent care.

Contact an appropriate healthcare professional before booking if you have unexplained or severe symptoms, a suspected fracture, a serious acute injury, or new numbness, weakness, or loss of function. You may also need medical clearance following surgery or when managing certain complex conditions.

Massage may need to be postponed when you have:

  • A fever or contagious illness
  • An active skin infection
  • Open wounds in the treatment area
  • Unexplained swelling, redness, or heat
  • An acute injury that has not been assessed
  • Medical instructions to avoid massage

When uncertain, tell the clinic about your circumstances before your appointment. This allows the team to provide appropriate guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing a Massage

Can Different Types of Massage Therapy Be Combined?

Yes, when the techniques are appropriate for your needs. A session might include broad relaxation work followed by focused treatment around the shoulders, or therapeutic massage combined with guided stretching.

The treatment does not need to follow a fixed formula. Your therapist may adjust the plan based on your goals, comfort, and how your body responds that day.

How Often Should I Book Massage Therapy?

There is no universal schedule. The right frequency depends on why you are seeking treatment, your activity level, how long the concern has been present, your response to massage, your schedule, and your budget or benefits coverage.

Someone booking for occasional relaxation may choose appointments as needed. A person addressing a particular concern might initially book more consistently before moving to a maintenance schedule.

Your therapist can recommend a reasonable plan without promising a specific result. Reassess that plan as your goals and needs change.

Do I need to know exactly what to book?
No. Describe your primary goal when scheduling, and ask the clinic which appointment or therapist may be the best fit.

Is soreness after massage normal?
Some people experience temporary tenderness after focused treatment. Speak with your therapist about what to expect and contact an appropriate healthcare professional if you experience severe, unusual, or persistent symptoms.

Can I change the pressure during my appointment?
Absolutely. You remain in control of your comfort and can request an adjustment at any point.

Find the Right Massage at Oliver Chiropractic Wellness Clinic

Choosing a massage becomes much easier when you begin with your goals. Whether you want a restorative break from stress, focused attention for muscle tension, or support for an active lifestyle, the team at Oliver Chiropractic Wellness Clinic can help personalize your appointment.

Explore massage therapy at OCWC or book a massage online through Jane. You can also call the Edmonton clinic at 780-455-2112 to discuss which appointment may suit your needs.

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Book an Appointment

We respect your time and budget. Our appointments are efficient, flexible, and support a variety of payment options. Book an appointment for you or your family today by calling 780-455-2112.

 

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