Frequently Asked Questions
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It depends on your goals. If you're mainly looking to unwind, reduce everyday stress and enjoy a calming experience, a relaxation massage is usually the best choice. If you're experiencing persistent muscle tightness, stiffness or specific areas of tension, deep tissue massage may be more suitable. Mike will discuss your needs before your treatment and recommend the most appropriate approach.
Yes. Some people experience mild soreness for a day or two after a deeper massage, particularly if muscles have been very tight. This is usually temporary and often settles quickly. Gentle movement, staying hydrated and allowing your body time to recover may help.
Both can be beneficial depending on your goals. A lighter massage before activity may help prepare your muscles, while massage after exercise is commonly used to reduce muscle tightness and support recovery. Mike can recommend the best approach based on your activity level.
Absolutely. Sitting for long periods often contributes to tight hips, stiff lower backs, rounded shoulders and neck tension. Regular massage, combined with movement and stretching, can help relieve the muscular tightness that many office workers experience.
There isn't a single answer. Some people benefit from a monthly massage, while others who train more intensely choose treatment every two or three weeks. It depends on your training schedule, recovery needs and personal goals.
Massage can't correct posture on its own, but it may help reduce muscle tightness that contributes to poor posture. When combined with strengthening exercises, stretching and good ergonomic habits, massage can become part of an overall approach to moving more comfortably
Many people experience areas of tightness commonly referred to as "muscle knots." These often develop from poor posture, repetitive movements, exercise or prolonged sitting. Deep tissue massage may help release areas of muscular tension and improve comfort and movement.
Massage may help improve flexibility by reducing muscle tightness and encouraging easier movement. Many clients notice they feel less stiff and move more comfortably after regular massage treatments, particularly when massage is combined with stretching and regular physical activity.
Many headaches are associated with tension in the neck, shoulders and upper back. While massage is not a treatment for medical conditions, reducing muscle tightness in these areas may help some people experience greater comfort. If headaches are severe, persistent or unusual, you should seek medical advice.
To get the most from your treatment, try to avoid rushing straight back into a busy schedule. Gentle movement, drinking water, avoiding strenuous exercise for the rest of the day and getting a good night's sleep can all help your body recover and maximise the benefits of your massage.
Many people who spend long hours at a desk develop tension in the neck, shoulders, forearms and upper back. Massage may help relieve muscular tightness caused by repetitive movements and prolonged sitting, especially when combined with regular movement breaks and good ergonomic habits.
There are situations where massage may not be appropriate, such as when you have a fever, a contagious illness, certain skin infections or a recent serious injury that hasn't been medically assessed. If you're unsure whether massage is suitable for you, let Mike know before your appointment so he can discuss your situation. If necessary, he may recommend seeking medical advice before treatment
Sciatica is caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve. While massage can't treat the underlying cause, many people find it helps reduce muscle tension around the hips, buttocks and lower back, making them feel more comfortable. If you have severe pain, numbness, weakness or changes to bladder or bowel function, seek immediate medical attention.
Plantar fasciitis often involves more than just the sole of the foot. Tight calf muscles and reduced ankle mobility may also contribute to symptoms. Massage may help reduce muscle tightness and improve flexibility as part of an overall management plan that may also include stretching, supportive footwear and strengthening exercises.
Massage may help reduce tension in the muscles of the forearm that are commonly associated with tennis elbow. While it isn't a cure, many people include massage alongside exercises and activity modification as part of their recovery.
Frozen shoulder usually requires time and appropriate rehabilitation. Massage may help ease muscle tightness around the shoulder and upper back, improving comfort, but it won't release the joint capsule itself. If your shoulder movement is becoming increasingly restricted, it's important to seek medical assessment.
After the initial stage of an injury has settled, massage may help reduce surrounding muscle tightness and support recovery. The timing is important, however. Fresh muscle injuries often need protection and relative rest before massage is appropriate.
Many active people use massage as part of their recovery routine. It may help reduce feelings of muscle tightness, improve comfort and encourage relaxation after training. Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) usually peaks one to three days after unfamiliar or intense exercise and gradually settles as your muscles recover.
It's not unusual to feel mild soreness after a deep tissue massage, particularly if muscles were very tight beforehand or if you haven't had a massage for some time. This usually settles within a day or two. Gentle movement, staying hydrated and allowing your body time to recover are often helpful.
Massage can't change posture permanently on its own, but it may help reduce muscle tightness that contributes to poor movement patterns. Combining massage with strengthening exercises, stretching and improved workstation ergonomics often provides the best long-term results.
It depends on the type and stage of the injury. Some acute injuries require rest or medical assessment before massage is appropriate. Always let Mike know about any recent injuries so he can decide whether massage is suitable or whether you should first seek medical advice.
Yes, many people find massage helpful for reducing muscle tension around the hips and glutes, particularly if they spend long periods sitting, run regularly or have an active lifestyle. Massage is often most effective when combined with stretching and strengthening exercises.

W Steven AN
A very good approach to treating pain, muscle tension, and knots, going beyond a superficial massage, and with excellent technique. She also uses precise pressure, which I personally find important for the therapy to be truly effective. She is very patient, and the atmosphere is calm, ideal for disconnecting.
