frequently asked questions
Below you will find answers to common queries. If your question is not covered here, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Please click here for FAQs about Pilates classes with Claire.
General Information
How does massage work?
Massage increases blood flow to the muscles which helps stimulate recovery from pain / injury or mobility issues. Through massage, muscles are lengthened and adhesions (muscle knots) are broken down in order to restore a normal range of movement.
Is massage beneficial if I don’t have an injury?
In short: “yes!”
Regular treatments means your therapist will be familiar with what’s normal for you, so they will not only be able to keep you in peak condition, but also help rectify potential issues before they become a problem.
What will my treatment feel like - is it painful? Or relaxing? Or somewhere in between?
A painful massage is counterproductive - our aim is always to decrease tension, not make it worse! That said, sports / remedial massage techniques can involve some level of discomfort. Everybody is different and recognises sensations such as pain differently; the important thing is to maintain an open dialogue with your therapist, who will encourage you to give feedback during and after each treatment. Many clients find that they feel more relaxed after a massage as the techniques used during treatments can trigger the body’s natural relaxation response.
Relaxation massage is, of course, designed to be relaxing.
Your Health
Should I consult a healthcare professional before booking a massage?
There are some conditions that may make it unsafe for you to undertake massage. If you have any specific health concerns, it is best to mention these to your therapist when making your booking. At your first appointment, your therapist discuss any concerns related to your completed health questionnaire so that we can identify any potential risks or contraindications. However, we would recommend that you consult your GP or other healthcare professional before booking an appointment if you have any concerns.
If I am injured, how soon should I wait before having a massage?
This depends on the type of injury. During the “acute” phase (3 - 5 days following trauma) it is usually not appropriate to have deep tissue massage involving the affected area. However, there are some alternative therapies which may help with swelling and pain. Please get in touch so we can advise you.
Once the acute stage passes, massage can help to restore optimum range of movement to joints and muscle fibre. It can also help reduce the negative affects of scar tissue build up.
Can I have massage if I am pregnant?
Yes, absolutely! We are qualified in massage for all stages of pregnancy, including during the first trimester.
Can I have a massage if I have an allergy?
If you have any allergies, please inform us when making your booking. In some cases, we may advise a skin test prior to treatment.
Some of our products contain almond oil, so if you have a nut allergy you will need to let us know in advance so we can ensure we have alternative products to use during your treatment.
ALL ABOUT APPOINTMENTS
What should I wear for my treatment?
This is a common query and the short answer is always: wear something you feel comfortable in. We will work around whatever you decide.
However please note that, if you want the massage to work to its full potential, your therapist will need to see and feel the affected muscle(s). Good accessibility is particularly important, as often the problem causing the pain is influenced by surrounding muscles.
If you are comfortable with removing your top / bottoms to facilitate your treatment, drapes and towels are always used to ensure your privacy.
Other general tips:
If you wear a bra, it is fine to keep it on if you wish. However please note that a bra which doesn’t unfasten at the back will make it difficult for us to work in this area.
If you wear boxers, it is better to wear loose fitting ones. Tight fitting shorts make it more difficult to work certain areas of the hips/thighs.
Please remove any obstructive jewellery before your appointment e.g. necklaces, bracelets, watch, dangly earrings.
If you have long hair, it is a good idea to have it tied back.
Ideal clothing for upper body massage:
When you have an ache or pain in your back, the ideal situation is for you to completely remove your top (and bra, if you wear one) and to wear a pair of bottoms with an elasticated or loose waistband. If you are not comfortable removing your clothing, then a bra that can be undone or which allows us access to the aching muscle will be fine. If the pain is in your lower back, you can simply wear a loose fitting top.
Ideal clothing for lower body massage:
Generally, if the lower part of your body is to be treated, wearing a pair of loose-fitting shorts is the best idea. If they are too tight, like cycling shorts, it can cause an issue with the massage as they can restrict access to the higher part of your leg. Any clothes worn should be easily moved out of the way as any massage on your thighs or calves will be more beneficial if we can see and access muscles on your legs.
How much will my treatment cost?
For up to date prices, please click here.
How do I make payment for my treatment?
You can make payment for your treatment by either, cash, card or bank transfer. Please note that card payments incur a small administrative charge of £1 to cover processing fees.
Is there parking available?
There is a central pay and display car park on The Avenue, which turns off from Station Road. It is a short walk from the clinic. Alternatively you may be able to find free parking on adjacent streets. Please do not park directly outside the facility, these parking spaces are reserved for the McFarlane Massage Therapy staff only!
What happens if I am late? Or if I need to change/cancel an appointment?
We understand that life can sometimes get in the way. However, as a small business, last minute cancellations and changes can be very detrimental. Therefore our policy is as follows:
Cancellations
We require a minimum of 24 hours advance notice if you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment. In the event that you fail to provide the required advance notice, you will be charged 100% of the treatment fees. Please ensure you contact your therapist by not later than Thursday evening if you need to cancel an appointment for the following Monday.
Please be aware that the 24 cancellation notice is there for your benefit, with an appropriate amount of notice your therapist may be able to offer the appointment to someone else o our waiting list.
Charges will not be applied when the required cancellation notice is provided.
You can cancel/reschedule your appointment via the link on your confirmation email. Simply scroll to the bottom of the email to find the link.
If you are having trouble rescheduling or cancelling an existing appointment, please ensure you contact your therapist by telephone (not text) to either cancel or reschedule appointments.
Late Arrivals
Appointment times have been arranged specifically for you. If you arrive late for your scheduled appointment, your session may be shortened in order to accommodate others whose appointments follow yours.
Depending upon how late you arrive, your therapist will then determine if there is enough time remaining to start a treatment. Regardless of the length of the treatment actually given, you will be responsible for the “full” session, however we will do our best to satisfy the scheduled time.