FAQs
- How did you get started doing this type of work?
When I decided to become a massage therapist, I chose to focus on the clinical aspect of treating acute injuries and chronic pain. I did this due to injuries I received in two back to back accidents, and the chronic pain I lived with as a result of those injuries. I believe my own chronic pain issues motivated me to seek more and more knowledge in this area of massage. It also allowed me to be more compassionate in dealing with others in pain. I have a first hand understanding of how excruciating and chronic pain can affect the mental and emotional well being of the suffering person, so I am able to connect in a manner a lot of therapists cannot. I became driven to find out more ways to help, always realizing the more I learned, the less I really knew. I think that knowledge has prevented me from becoming a "know it all". I am quick to say "I don't know" when I do not know something. I am also just as quick to say I will do some research and see what I can find.
- What types of customers have you worked with?
By far, my largest client base are those seeking relief of acute injuries and/or chronic pain. Most of them have disc related pain, repetitive strain, and sport related injuries. About half are still in the midst of their work careers, while the other half are retired. More than half of my appointment each week are those who come once a week. I sometimes have clients coming in twice a week. At this time, I have two such clients. I usually have on average an equal amount of women and men.
- What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
When seeking a massage therapist, the best advise I have is to know exactly what you want, and then ask questions of the therapist as to their experience and training in the kind of massage you are seeking. I would disregard most "certifications" a therapist claims they have due to the fact certifications are handed out after a weekend of 12-16 hours of training. There is usually no test of competency to receive these particular certifications. I also would not be concerned with the fact the therapist has much "experience" working in clinical settings. Many of these therapists are left to do what they want, and having no real training in clinical massage, they usually rubs where it hurts, only relieving symptoms temporarily. They have no real training in the evaluation and treatment of injuries. The bottom line is if you are looking for a clinically oriented massage therapist, ask questions concerning your particular issues, and dig deep enough to see if they really know how to treat you with something other than basic massage skills. If you are looking for a relaxation massage, ask questions regarding the ambiance of the establishment, as well as work history of the therapist.