Therapeutic Massage FAQs
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- Therapeutic Massage FAQs
Relief. Recovery. Personalized Care.
Find answers to common questions about therapeutic massage, what to expect, and how PalmLeaf can support your comfort, mobility, and wellness.
Therapeutic Massage FAQs
- Home
- Therapeutic Massage FAQs
Relief. Recovery. Personalized Care.
Find answers to common questions about therapeutic massage, what to expect, and how PalmLeaf can support your comfort, mobility, and wellness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is therapeutic massage?
Therapeutic massage is personalized bodywork designed to relieve muscle tension, improve mobility, reduce discomfort, and support overall wellness.
How do I communicate the right massage pressure?
Communication is very important. Every client experiences pressure differently, so always let your therapist know what you are feeling. Our therapists can adjust pressure from light to very firm. We use a simple 0–10 pressure scale:
- 0 = No discomfort
- 10 = Too much or extreme pressure
- 6–7 = Our general working range
Our goal is to stay around a 6–7—enough pressure to effectively work through tight muscles and knots while remaining within your comfort level. The right pressure can help release muscle tension, improve circulation, increase flexibility, and provide relief from everyday aches and pains. More pressure is not always better. Communication with your therapist helps us find the right pressure for your body.
Which massage is right for me?
You don’t need to choose a specific technique. Your therapist will discuss your concerns and personalize your session based on your body, comfort level, and goals. All our therapeutic massages are customized to your needs, so a variety of modalities may be used during your treatment.
Does therapeutic massage hurt?
You may feel some tenderness when working on tight muscles or problem areas, but the pressure should remain within your comfort level. Always tell your therapist if you need more or less pressure. This is why communication is so important—it is a two-way conversation between you and your therapist.
How often should I get a therapeutic massage?
It depends on your needs and goals. Some clients come weekly or biweekly for specific concerns, while others schedule monthly massage as part of their regular wellness routine. This is also why we offer our Monthly Wellness Membership for routine body maintenance.
How long should I book—60, 90, or 120 minutes?
60 minutes works well for general or focused care. 90 minutes allows more time for multiple areas or detailed work. 120 minutes provides time for more comprehensive treatment. Ask your therapist for a recommendation so we can determine what may work best for your muscle concerns.
What should I expect during my first massage?
Your therapist will review your health history and discuss your areas of concern, preferred pressure, and treatment goals before beginning your session. Afterward, your therapist may recommend a treatment plan or timing for your next appointment.
What should I wear during my massage?
Your therapist will explain your options before your session. You will always be professionally draped, with only the area being treated uncovered. You may also want to bring or wear loose, comfortable clothing if your therapist plans to incorporate stretching into your treatment.
Can I request a male or female massage therapist?
Yes. You may choose your preferred therapist when booking, based on availability. We also encourage clients to consider the therapist’s experience, skills, and availability—not only gender. All PalmLeaf therapists are trained professionals who work with both male and female clients. Our founder, Ramon, maintains high standards for the therapists who join the PalmLeaf team.
Do you offer prenatal massage?
Yes. Prenatal massage is available for expectant mothers and is customized based on your stage of pregnancy, comfort, and individual needs. Before your appointment, please complete our prenatal questionnaire and let your therapist know:
- How many weeks pregnant you are
- Your expected due date
- Whether your pregnancy is considered high-risk
- Any complications or restrictions
- Areas of pain, swelling, or discomfort
- Any recommendations or restrictions from your healthcare provider
Your comfort and safety come first. Positioning, pressure, and massage techniques will be adjusted throughout your pregnancy. If you have a high-risk pregnancy, complications, or concerns about receiving massage, please consult your healthcare provider before scheduling.
Do you offer lymphatic massage?
Yes. Lymphatic massage is a gentle, specialized technique that supports the body’s natural lymphatic system and movement of lymphatic fluid. Unlike deep tissue or therapeutic massage, lymphatic massage uses very light, rhythmic pressure. Deeper pressure is not better for this type of treatment. Lymphatic massage may be requested by clients experiencing swelling or fluid buildup, including those recovering from certain procedures such as:
- Liposuction
- Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)
- Breast reduction, reconstruction, or other breast surgery
- Mastectomy or lymph node procedures
- Body contouring or body enhancement procedures
- Cosmetic surgery
- Other procedures where post-surgical swelling may occur
Post-surgical lymphatic massage requires special consideration. Your surgeon or healthcare provider should determine when massage is appropriate after your procedure. Please follow their instructions and inform your PalmLeaf therapist about your procedure, surgery date, areas treated, and any restrictions before your session. Lymphatic massage is supportive care and does not replace medical treatment or your surgeon’s post-operative care.
Do you accept medical insurance?
No. PalmLeaf Massage & Wellness does not accept or bill medical insurance. Payment is due at the time of service. We can provide a receipt for your records or for possible reimbursement when applicable.
Can I use my HSA or FSA?
Some therapeutic services may qualify for reimbursement through your Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA), depending on your healthcare plan. PalmLeaf does not accept HSA/FSA cards directly. Please pay using an accepted credit card, then submit your receipt to your HSA/FSA provider for possible reimbursement. Please consult your benefits provider to determine eligibility and reimbursement requirements.
Why do I need to fill-out an intake form?
Your intake form helps your therapist understand your health history, current concerns, and treatment goals. It also provides important information about injuries, surgeries, medications, or health conditions that may require adjustments to your massage.
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Even if you have received massage before, this information helps us personalize your session and support your comfort and safety. Please complete your intake form before your appointment so your therapist can review it and make the most of your reserved treatment time.
What if I’m late to my appointment?
Your appointment time is reserved specifically for your massage treatment.
If you arrive late, we cannot guarantee your full scheduled session. Your session will still end at the scheduled time so your therapist can prepare for the next client’s reserved appointment.
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To make the most of your treatment time, please complete your intake form before your appointment and arrive 10 minutes early.Â
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If you still need to complete your intake form when you arrive, that time may reduce the time available for your massage.
What is PalmLeaf's 24-Hour Cancellation Policy?
No deposit is required when scheduling your appointment. We do require a valid credit card on file to reserve your appointment. Your card will be charged for your service on the day it is provided.
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Please cancel or reschedule at least 24 hours before your appointment to avoid a cancellation fee. Cancellations or changes made within 24 hours, and no-shows, may result in a charge of 50% of the scheduled service price to your card on file.
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This policy also applies to same-day bookings. There is no automatic 3-hour grace period.
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Your appointment time is reserved specifically for you. Providing advance notice helps us offer that time to another client and respects the time our therapists reserve for your care.