Frequently Asked Questions & Office Policies

The appointment time scheduled is the time allotted to the table - I aim to provide the full 60/75/90 minutes of table time.  To ensure this, I request that clients arrive 5 minutes prior to their appointment time to discuss their needs and get settled.  Arriving right at the appointment time is fine, however, I cannot guarantee the full table time. APPOINTMENT TIME = TABLE TIME

Your session will take place in a warm, comfortable, quiet room. Soft music may be played to help you relax. You will lie on a table especially designed for your comfort.

Prior to treatment, feel free to ask any questions about techniques or the upcoming session. During the session, make yourself comfortable. I will either gently move you or tell you what is needed throughout the session (such as lifting your arm). If you have any questions regarding the session, what you are experiencing, or about the particular technique you are receiving, feel free to ask at any time. Additionally, if during your session you need adjustments to pressure, temperature, music, or anything else pertaining to your session, please let me know.

Many of my manual therapy techniques are best performed with the client unclothed, however, it is entirely up to you what you want to wear. You should undress to your level of comfort. You will be properly draped during the entire session.

I will leave the room while you undress, relax onto the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet and blanket.

Attire for Dynamic Orthopedic Cupping sessions must allow for movement, so short shorts and a sports bra or anything that allows free movement with access to skin is best.

You will be properly draped at all times to keep you warm and comfortable. Only the area being worked on will be exposed.

Dynamic Orthopedic Cupping sessions will involve movement on top of the table, appropriate attire is required; short shorts and a sports bra or anything that allows free movement with access to skin is best.

There are numerous types of massage, bodywork, and manual therapies; various techniques utilize different strokes, including basic rubbing strokes, rocking movement, posture and movement re-education, application of pressure to specific points, and more. We will discuss which methods may be most appropriate for you at every session.

Most people feel relaxed and more easeful in their movements. Some experience freedom from long-term aches and pains developed from tension or repetitive activity.

After an initial period of feeling slowed down, people often experience increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity which can last for days.

For deeper work, like with cupping therapy, limited soreness can be expected - sort of like your post workout discomfort, and much like that, it should resolve in a day or so. Skin marks are also common after cupping therapy.

Massage and bodywork can help release chronic muscular tension and pain, improve circulation, increase joint flexibility, reduce mental and physical fatigue and stress, promote faster healing of injured muscular tissue, improve posture, and reduce blood pressure. Massage. manual therapy, and bodywork are also known to promote better sleep, improve concentration, reduce anxiety, and create an overall sense of well-being.

Yes.

DO NOT GET BODYWORK/MASSAGE IF YOU ARE SICK OR MAY BE GETTING SICK

That’s why it’s imperative that, before you begin your session we have a general health intake. It is very important that you inform me of any health problems or medications you are taking. If you are under a doctor’s care, it is strongly advised that you receive a written recommendation for massage or bodywork prior to any session. Depending on the condition, approval from your doctor may be required.

Cupping therapy cannot be performed on those taking blood thinners, have active skin irritation/infection, or thinner skin.

1. What is orthopedic cupping therapy?

Orthopedic cupping involves placing specialized cups on the skin to create suction. This suction gently lifts the skin and underlying tissues, promoting blood flow, reducing muscle tension, and assisting in the healing of musculoskeletal issues. What is unique about orthopedic cupping is that the client utilizes movement and exercise as part of treatment. 

2. How does orthopedic cupping work?

Using suction to address musculoskeletal and orthopedic issues, cupping therapy aims to lift and separate muscle and fascia layers. Cups may be used dynamically along the skin or kept in place while the client performs specific movements. *Wear Attire for movement and skin access (short shorts, sports bra)

Cupping works through several mechanisms: 

• Increased Circulation: The suction draws fresh, oxygenated blood to the targeted area, delivering vital nutrients and aiding in toxin removal.

• Myofascial Release: By lifting the skin and fascia, cupping helps break up adhesions and restrictions in the connective tissue, improving mobility.

• Pain Relief: The decompression effect can alleviate pressure on nerves and reduce pain signals.

• Lymphatic Drainage: Cupping stimulates the lymphatic system, assisting in the removal of waste products and reducing swelling.

• Trigger Point Relief: It can target and release tight knots in muscles (trigger points) that contribute to pain and dysfunction. 

3. What conditions can orthopedic cupping help with?

Cupping is often used for: 

• Chronic muscle pain and tightness (e.g., back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain).

• Scar tissue reduction, improving mobility after injuries or surgeries.

• Sports injury recovery (muscle strains, ligament sprains).

• Limited range of motion and flexibility.

• Various orthopedic conditions such as knee pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis. 

4. Does orthopedic cupping hurt?

Generally, no, cupping is not considered painful, though you may feel a sensation of pressure or tightness when the cups are applied. Some people describe the feeling as a deep tissue massage sensation. 

5. What are the common side effects of orthopedic cupping?

The most common side effect is the appearance of circular red, purple, or dark marks on the skin where the cups were placed. These marks result from increased blood flow and temporary pooling and typically fade within a few days to a week. Other potential side effects include mild soreness, temporary skin sensitivity, lightheadedness, fatigue, and minor skin irritation. 

6. How long do the cupping marks last?

The marks usually fade within a few days to a week, depending on factors like suction intensity and individual skin sensitivity. 

7. What should you expect after an orthopedic cupping session?

You might feel relaxed and experience reduced muscle tension. The characteristic circular marks can be expected. It is recommended to stay hydrated, rest, and follow any aftercare instructions from the therapist, such as avoiding strenuous activity or extreme temperatures. 

8. When should orthopedic cupping be avoided?

Cupping is not recommended for individuals with certain conditions, including bleeding disorders, those taking blood thinners, active skin infections, open wounds, pregnancy (especially on the abdomen or lower back), severe edema, areas of deep vein thrombosis, compromised organ systems (e.g., heart, kidney, liver disease), cancer, or those with a pacemaker. Consulting with a healthcare provider beforehand is always best

1.       What is CBD?

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a chemical compound derived from the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, another compound found in cannabis, CBD does not produce a "high" or intoxicating effect.

2.       What is a CBD Massage?

A CBD massage involves the application of CBD-infused oil, lotion, or balm during a massage session. The CBD is typically applied topically to the skin and is not ingested.

3.       Will a CBD massage get me high?

No, a CBD massage will not get you high. The CBD used in massage is derived from hemp, which contains very low levels of THC (less than 0.3%). This minimal amount of THC is not enough to produce any psychoactive effects.

Specific CBD product information can be furnished upon request.

4.       What are the benefits of a CBD massage?

CBD massage may offer several potential benefits:

• Pain Relief:  Alleviates muscle tension, nerve pain, joint discomfort

• Stress & Anxiety Relief:  Reduces cortisol levels and promotes relaxation and anxiety in the nervous system

• Muscle Recovery:  Reduces soreness, improves circulation, and promotes faster healing of tired muscles

• Enhanced Skin Health:  CBD is rich in antioxidants, which hydrates and nourishes the skin, reducing redness, irritation, as well as acne and eczema

• Inflammation Reduction:  Reduces swelling and discomfort, aiding in conditions like arthritis

• Holistic Wellness Boost:  Enhancing physical and mental wellbeing, cbd promotes relaxation, circulation, and overall body recovery

• Improved Sleep: Some individuals report that CBD massage can improve sleep quality and help with insomnia.

5.       When should CBD massage be avoided?

It's always a good idea to consult with your doctor before trying a CBD massage, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions or are taking medications. Avoid CBD if you have a possible allergy, are pregnant/breastfeeding, along with general massage contraindications.