Questions about massage therapy? Here are some of the most common questions we receive about massage at Equilibrium.

What is massage therapy?

Massage therapy is the manipulation of the soft tissues of your body — muscle, connective tissue, tendons, ligaments and skin by a trained, certified medical professional (Licensed Massage Therapist, or LMT). The massage therapist uses varying degrees of pressure and movement to relieve tension, break up adhesions, increase blood flow and increase range of motion. Some massage therapists may use tools such as cupping, scrapping, hot packs or heated stones as symptoms necessitate.

What can I expect during my massage appointment?

Your massage therapist will look over your daily check-in, intake paperwork, and any notes from other Equilibrium providers, and then speak with you about your symptoms and massage preferences. They may recommend incorporating different modalities into your massage such as cupping or scraping to help release adhesions and improve blood flow and range of motion. Your therapist will then ask you to dress-down to your comfort level and leave the room. Once undressed to your level of comfort, get on the massage table and under the provided sheet. Most often your therapist will ask you start lying face-down on the table, but occasionally they will have you start face-up. If you have any questions about your massage, ask your massage therapist.

Is there a difference between the massage offered at Equilibrium and a massage I would receive at a spa?

As a medical clinic, all massages offered at Equilibrium are therapeutic massages, versus a relaxation massage offered at a spa. Our massages are targeted for injury rehabilitation and the improvement of symptoms. That doesn’t mean they’re not relaxing! Therapeutic massage still has an effect of downshifting the central nervous system and relieving physical and mental stress. We recommend each patient tries different Equilibrium LMTs as there are different types of therapeutic massages and different approaches to treatment. Your chiropractor or acupuncturist may recommend a specific therapist or approach that they discern will be most beneficial for your symptoms. If you haven’t gotten a specific recommendation from a medical provider, we recommend taking a look at our provider bios for more information about each of our therapists and their specialties.

Will my insurance cover massage therapy?

It depends on your insurance. Few insurance plans offer massage therapy benefits, though some have physical therapy benefits that may apply to massage prescribed by a chiropractor and done in conjunction with chiropractic treatment. Massage therapy can be beneficial for allowing more thorough chiropractic adjustments. If you call our front desk, our friendly Patient Coordinators can look up your benefits and let you know what your specific insurance plan will cover.

Do I have to tip my massage therapist?

As a medical office, gratuity is not expected, though always graciously accepted by our LMTs. You’re welcome to leave a cash tip in your massage room, or add gratuity to your credit card payment at the front desk.