REMEDIAL MASSAGE & MYOTHERAPY FAQs
Q. What should I expect in my first massage/myotherapy session?
InitIal consultations normally involve a general health screen which encompasses detailed health history questions, postural assessment, muscle strength tests and orthopaedic tests. Your practitioner may ask you to take your shirt off so they can view your physical bony landmarks to aid assessment more effectively. The time taken to conduct the general health screen will vary depending on your presenting condition but last between 5 to 15 minutes. This is followed by the soft tissue treatment which is personalised to your individual needs and health goals, then completed with some take home advice which may include stretching or exercise tips. Your follow up sessions and progress are generally outlined for you at the end of each consultation.
Q. How long should I book my session for?
We highly recommend your first consultation with a Remedial Massage or Myotherapist at our clinic to be booked as a 45 minute or 60 minute session, depending on your presenting condition.
Generally, once you've had your initial consultation, follow up sessions may be reduced by your practitioner to 30 minutes for known neck & shoulder problems, 45 minutes for back, neck & shoulder problems and 60 minutes for more indepth issues relating to your shoulders, back, hip & knees. Follow up consultation times may vary depending on the treatment regime your practitioner has chosen for you and on your personal progress. A quick follow up health screen or postural assessment may be conducted before your soft tissue treatment begins. This will often be the case if you are seeing another therapist at our clinic for the follow up session.
We suggest you speak to a practitioner who understands your health history to determine how long your session time should be.
Q. Is it normal to feel sore after a massage?
Clients may sometimes feel muscle tenderness or a feeling similar to delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) after a deep tissue massage. The soreness is often a result of the inflammation process that has been brought on by vigorous soft tissue work and by the muscle retraining performed in the massage session. For example, your quadratus lumborum muscle (QL), located in your lower back, may be overactive and often takes your lumbar spine into too much extension, causing you to experience tightness, stiffness, or worse. Your practitioner may apply soft tissues techniques which encourages the QL to release but all it remembers and wants to do is how to overwork and extend your lower back. This internal fight is what can cause post massage discomfort. Normally, the soreness may feel different to the initial pain and will settle down after 2 or 3 days. We suggest you contact your practitioner if you experience pain for longer than this after a massage.
Q. What can I do about the post massage/myo soreness?
It is normal to feel new aches after a soft tissue session,e specially if you've had dry needling that elicited strong twitch responses. You can apply a heat pack over the sore area to help reduce the pain. Generally, some people might feel achey on the second day after a massage but some won't feel any lingering pain or discomfort.
Q. How can I make my massage/myo session more comfortable?
Make sure you're hydrated before your session. Drinking a glass of water just before your massage won't help. A well hydrated body will feel less discomfort when stronger soft tissue techniques are applied and when dry needling is used. Recovery will also improve.
Q. Do I need a referral for remedial massage or myotherapy?
No, but it may help. If you are coming in with an existing injury/illness which has been diagnosed by a health professional such as your GP, chiro, osteo or physio we find a referral letter briefly outlining your condition and your goals towards recovery, along with any relevant investigation reports can help us to plan the most suitable massage session for you. The more information we have, the more successful the outcomes.
Q. Is Remedial Massage or Myotherapy covered by TAC, DVA, Medicare or GP Management Plan?
Unfortunately, no. Although we receive many referrals through GP clinics, Remedial Massage and Myotherapy is not covered by Medicare, TAC, DVA or GP Management Plans. Only massages applied by a physiotherapist qualifies for these benefits.
Q. Do you see Workcover clients?
No. Although we are technically able to, our practitioners choose not to as we feel the restrictions for Workcover appointments may compromise our treatment plans for our clients.
PREGNANCY
Q. I'm pregnant. Can I have a massage?
Massage is a very safe option for dealing with fatigue, insomnia, headaches, neck, back & hip pain during pregnancy. Generally, if you've had a history of difficult pregnancies or miscarriage, we prefer to err on the side of caution and avoid massage until your second or third trimester. If in doubt, always consult your physician or obstetrician before getting a massage. Massage session times are reduced as your pregnancy progresses into the third trimester to reduce discomfort with lying on the massage table.
Q. I'm pregnant and can't lie on my stomach or back anymore. How can I get a massage?
Our clinic has a special pregnancy massage cushion which allows a mum-to-be to lie comfortably on her stomach right up until the end of her pregnancy, reducing the need to roll from side to side or onto your back. Our practitioners are also trained in soft tissue techniques that can be done seated if required.
MYOFASCIAL CUPPING
Q. What are the bruises after cupping?
After cupping, it is normal to experience bruising on the skin that can vary in colour from light pink/brown to bright red (which may disappear quickly) or dark purple (which can take longer to fade), depending on the techniques used and the intensity or treatment. The discolouration observed is normally from toxins penetrating the skin, coming from inside out as a form of fluid film, and vapour left in the cups. The bruising is seen as a reflection of the degree of stagnation in that area. The bruising, though not painful, can look rather alarming for first time clients.
Q. What if I need to go out to a party afterwards?
Clients may wish to inform their practitioner of any special events coming up in the near future which may require them to expose their backs and reconsider cupping as part of their massage session unless showing the “octopus attack” marks brings you some amusement. Otherwise, like Posh Spice, Madonna and Gwyneth Paltrow, you could appear in the next edition of your local tabloid magazine with the caption "Brave Aussie survives killer octopus attack!!" Not really, but if you do, please let us know so we can post it on facebook.
DRY NEEDLING
Q. Is dry needling like acupuncture?
No. Although we use the same type of needles, myofascial dry needling is very specific to fascia, muscles and tendons. You may find that some myofascial trigger points overlap acupoints but it is not our direct goal to manipulate the flow of energy or Qi. Acupuncture can only be applied by a fully qualified Acupuncturist.
Q. How big are the needles?
The needles are super fine and flexible, much, much smaller than a hypodermic needle.
Q. What is the twitch response?
The twitch response felt along a group of muscle fibers during a dry needling session indicates that we've hit a myofascial trigger point, resulting in an involuntary muscle contraction. Myofascial trigger points that can refer pain along the muscle and distal to the trigger point site can elicit a twitch response when stimulated. It is our goal to elicit a twitch response when needling to speed up deactivation of the trigger point. Some clients associate the twitch with pain and others feel it as more of an unexpected shock.
Q. Will I ache after a dry needling session?
Not everyone will feel discomfort post needling. Some clients may feel an ache at the needling site specifically if a twitch response was achieved. Sometimes, it feels like DOMS after a big gym session. A twitch response can vary in intensity, depending on the client and muscle condition.
Q. What can I do post dry needling to aid recovery?
Make sure you're well hydrated before your session. Clients with dehydrated skin and muscles will more likely feel the initial pinch of the fine needle when applied. A well hydrated body will feel less discomfort when stronger soft tissue techniques are applied and when dry needling is used. Recovery will also improve.
CLINICAL PILATES FAQs
Q. What should I expect in my first clinical pilates session?
Initial consultations normally involve a general health screen which encompasses detailed health history questions, postural assessment, muscle strength tests and orthopaedic tests.
Q. I don't have any injuries or problems, can I still do clinical pilates?
Definitely. Clinical pilates isn't just for the person who presents with pain or injury. It's also suitable for the healthy or highly mobile person who wants some individual pilates coaching, similar to personal training, to help improve their personal pilates practice, improve functional movement and fitness, or just for general health and well being. Your instructor will discuss your personal exercise goals with you at your initial clinical pilates assessment and outline a suitable program.
Q. How many clinical pilates sessions do I need to attend?
The number of sessions you need to attend is variable depending on your personal goals or level of presenting injury or health issue. Some clients may grasp the fundamentals very early on and may wish to move into a group class for general exercise. Others may require regular ongoing sessions depending on their level of body awareness or physical capabilities. Often, clients may combine one clinical session with two group classes per week to improve quality of movement and increase their fitness. It's always best to discuss your needs with your instructor. Or ask yourself: How dedicated am I to improving my health?
Q. Do I need a referral to do clinical pilates?
No, but it may help. If you are coming in with an existing injury/illness which has been diagnosed by a health professional such as your GP, chiro, osteo or physio we find a referral letter briefly outlining your condition and your exercise goals can help us to plan the most suitable series of exercises for you. The more information we have, the more successful your sessions may be.
GROUP REFORMER PILATES FAQs
Q. I have an injury. Can I do group reformer classes?
Yes and no. No, if you have any serious injury that you haven't had checked by a health professional, such as spinal disc issues, strains or sprains, heart problems or any history of any other serious illnesses. Perhaps yes if you have an old injury/illness that you are capable of managing well and are pain-free, such sciatica, muscle imbalances or mild joint instabilities. Generally speaking, group reformer classes are for the injury free. However, appropriate modifications will be suggested for you to do in class to accommodate your problem. We strongly advise you discuss your situation with the instructor at the beginning of the group class to assess it's suitability on the day. Remember, you risk personal injury if you fail to inform your instructor and attempt to do the class regardless. If in doubt, consult your physician for the all clear to exercise. Sometimes it's better to sit out one session than to cause further injury and be out for weeks on end.
Q. Will I feel exercise pain (delayed onset muscle soreness) after doing pilates?
There is a good chance you may experience some DOMS as a result of doing pilates. Aside from concentration on firing the deep stabilising muscles, we also seek to challenge your big prime mover muscles which can lead to you feeling that oh so good/bad muscle exercise burn during class and those great aches for a couple of days after. This often happens if you've done an activity you aren't normally accustomed to or have really pushed yourself in class. DOMS will always resolve themselves in time, but the process can be sped up by doing moderate exercise the day after a big session or by getting a massage soon after exercise.
Q. I already do another form of exercise such as running, cycling and/or yoga. Should I stop if I want to do pilates?
Not unless you really want to. Pilates is great on it's own as regular exercise but it also easily compliments other forms of exercise by helping to improve your self awareness, strengthen your core and improve biomechanics (the way your body moves). People who do a combination of pilates and yoga often see an improvement in their yoga practice as their joints become freer and easier to stabilise during challenging poses. Runners and cyclists can feel an improvement in their chosen sport as they learn to better track their hip/leg/ankle motions to reduce problems such as ITB syndrome or achilles tendonopathies.
Q. What should I wear to classes?
We suggest you wear comfortable workout attire that allows freedom of movement without restriction. It is important that your clothing isn't too baggy as we need to easily observe your body levels and movements to ensure the exercises are performed correctly. Pilates is usually performed without shoes and socks. If you prefer to wear socks for hygiene and comfort, we recommend you try a pair of our Move Pilates Non-Slip Socks with grippy soles so you that don't slip on the equipment.
PREGNANCY
Q. I'm pregnant. Can I do pilates?
Pilates is usually safe to do in pre/post natal situations where the client has already been doing pilates, does not present with morning sickness, low blood pressure, advanced pelvic instability, a history of miscarriages or advised not to do any exercise by their physician. Pilates in general helps you to activate and strengthen your pelvic floor muscles and transverse abdomimus muscle which supports your stomach and lower back. Both are very important to maintain during and after pregnancy to reduce pelvic and lower back pain, and may help the recovery process.
Talk to an instructor to see how you can join a small group prenatal class. Smaller groups mean more attention, which is safer for you and your baby.
Q. I'm pregnant and can't lie on my stomach or back anymore. How can I do pilates?
Our studio is equipped with a pregnancy wedge if required, which allows you to lie semi-recumbent either on a mat or the reformer. So you can still comfortably do alot of the exercises during group classes or 1:1 sessions, otherwise your instructor will modify your exercise to suit or give you another challenging repertoire to perform. Always let your instructor know when you are pregnant before commencing any classes. If in doubt, consult your physician or obstetrician for approval before exercise.
PRIVATE HEALTH & HICAPS
Q. Can I claim Remedial Massages and Myotherapy on private health insurance?
Yes. All of our practitioners are registered with the major health funds. Visit our Private Health Insurance page for more information on how you may be able to claim on Massage and Myotherapy services.
Q. Can I claim pilates on private health insurance?
No. Clinical and Group Pilates can no longer be claimed on private health insurance unless it is run by a physiotherapist. Our instructors have undergone extra training to work with clients who need hep with soft tissue and joint injury and sports rehab, pre/postnatal, pelvic floor and postural issues.
Q. What should I expect in my first massage/myotherapy session?
InitIal consultations normally involve a general health screen which encompasses detailed health history questions, postural assessment, muscle strength tests and orthopaedic tests. Your practitioner may ask you to take your shirt off so they can view your physical bony landmarks to aid assessment more effectively. The time taken to conduct the general health screen will vary depending on your presenting condition but last between 5 to 15 minutes. This is followed by the soft tissue treatment which is personalised to your individual needs and health goals, then completed with some take home advice which may include stretching or exercise tips. Your follow up sessions and progress are generally outlined for you at the end of each consultation.
Q. How long should I book my session for?
We highly recommend your first consultation with a Remedial Massage or Myotherapist at our clinic to be booked as a 45 minute or 60 minute session, depending on your presenting condition.
Generally, once you've had your initial consultation, follow up sessions may be reduced by your practitioner to 30 minutes for known neck & shoulder problems, 45 minutes for back, neck & shoulder problems and 60 minutes for more indepth issues relating to your shoulders, back, hip & knees. Follow up consultation times may vary depending on the treatment regime your practitioner has chosen for you and on your personal progress. A quick follow up health screen or postural assessment may be conducted before your soft tissue treatment begins. This will often be the case if you are seeing another therapist at our clinic for the follow up session.
We suggest you speak to a practitioner who understands your health history to determine how long your session time should be.
Q. Is it normal to feel sore after a massage?
Clients may sometimes feel muscle tenderness or a feeling similar to delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) after a deep tissue massage. The soreness is often a result of the inflammation process that has been brought on by vigorous soft tissue work and by the muscle retraining performed in the massage session. For example, your quadratus lumborum muscle (QL), located in your lower back, may be overactive and often takes your lumbar spine into too much extension, causing you to experience tightness, stiffness, or worse. Your practitioner may apply soft tissues techniques which encourages the QL to release but all it remembers and wants to do is how to overwork and extend your lower back. This internal fight is what can cause post massage discomfort. Normally, the soreness may feel different to the initial pain and will settle down after 2 or 3 days. We suggest you contact your practitioner if you experience pain for longer than this after a massage.
Q. What can I do about the post massage/myo soreness?
It is normal to feel new aches after a soft tissue session,e specially if you've had dry needling that elicited strong twitch responses. You can apply a heat pack over the sore area to help reduce the pain. Generally, some people might feel achey on the second day after a massage but some won't feel any lingering pain or discomfort.
Q. How can I make my massage/myo session more comfortable?
Make sure you're hydrated before your session. Drinking a glass of water just before your massage won't help. A well hydrated body will feel less discomfort when stronger soft tissue techniques are applied and when dry needling is used. Recovery will also improve.
Q. Do I need a referral for remedial massage or myotherapy?
No, but it may help. If you are coming in with an existing injury/illness which has been diagnosed by a health professional such as your GP, chiro, osteo or physio we find a referral letter briefly outlining your condition and your goals towards recovery, along with any relevant investigation reports can help us to plan the most suitable massage session for you. The more information we have, the more successful the outcomes.
Q. Is Remedial Massage or Myotherapy covered by TAC, DVA, Medicare or GP Management Plan?
Unfortunately, no. Although we receive many referrals through GP clinics, Remedial Massage and Myotherapy is not covered by Medicare, TAC, DVA or GP Management Plans. Only massages applied by a physiotherapist qualifies for these benefits.
Q. Do you see Workcover clients?
No. Although we are technically able to, our practitioners choose not to as we feel the restrictions for Workcover appointments may compromise our treatment plans for our clients.
PREGNANCY
Q. I'm pregnant. Can I have a massage?
Massage is a very safe option for dealing with fatigue, insomnia, headaches, neck, back & hip pain during pregnancy. Generally, if you've had a history of difficult pregnancies or miscarriage, we prefer to err on the side of caution and avoid massage until your second or third trimester. If in doubt, always consult your physician or obstetrician before getting a massage. Massage session times are reduced as your pregnancy progresses into the third trimester to reduce discomfort with lying on the massage table.
Q. I'm pregnant and can't lie on my stomach or back anymore. How can I get a massage?
Our clinic has a special pregnancy massage cushion which allows a mum-to-be to lie comfortably on her stomach right up until the end of her pregnancy, reducing the need to roll from side to side or onto your back. Our practitioners are also trained in soft tissue techniques that can be done seated if required.
MYOFASCIAL CUPPING
Q. What are the bruises after cupping?
After cupping, it is normal to experience bruising on the skin that can vary in colour from light pink/brown to bright red (which may disappear quickly) or dark purple (which can take longer to fade), depending on the techniques used and the intensity or treatment. The discolouration observed is normally from toxins penetrating the skin, coming from inside out as a form of fluid film, and vapour left in the cups. The bruising is seen as a reflection of the degree of stagnation in that area. The bruising, though not painful, can look rather alarming for first time clients.
Q. What if I need to go out to a party afterwards?
Clients may wish to inform their practitioner of any special events coming up in the near future which may require them to expose their backs and reconsider cupping as part of their massage session unless showing the “octopus attack” marks brings you some amusement. Otherwise, like Posh Spice, Madonna and Gwyneth Paltrow, you could appear in the next edition of your local tabloid magazine with the caption "Brave Aussie survives killer octopus attack!!" Not really, but if you do, please let us know so we can post it on facebook.
DRY NEEDLING
Q. Is dry needling like acupuncture?
No. Although we use the same type of needles, myofascial dry needling is very specific to fascia, muscles and tendons. You may find that some myofascial trigger points overlap acupoints but it is not our direct goal to manipulate the flow of energy or Qi. Acupuncture can only be applied by a fully qualified Acupuncturist.
Q. How big are the needles?
The needles are super fine and flexible, much, much smaller than a hypodermic needle.
Q. What is the twitch response?
The twitch response felt along a group of muscle fibers during a dry needling session indicates that we've hit a myofascial trigger point, resulting in an involuntary muscle contraction. Myofascial trigger points that can refer pain along the muscle and distal to the trigger point site can elicit a twitch response when stimulated. It is our goal to elicit a twitch response when needling to speed up deactivation of the trigger point. Some clients associate the twitch with pain and others feel it as more of an unexpected shock.
Q. Will I ache after a dry needling session?
Not everyone will feel discomfort post needling. Some clients may feel an ache at the needling site specifically if a twitch response was achieved. Sometimes, it feels like DOMS after a big gym session. A twitch response can vary in intensity, depending on the client and muscle condition.
Q. What can I do post dry needling to aid recovery?
Make sure you're well hydrated before your session. Clients with dehydrated skin and muscles will more likely feel the initial pinch of the fine needle when applied. A well hydrated body will feel less discomfort when stronger soft tissue techniques are applied and when dry needling is used. Recovery will also improve.
CLINICAL PILATES FAQs
Q. What should I expect in my first clinical pilates session?
Initial consultations normally involve a general health screen which encompasses detailed health history questions, postural assessment, muscle strength tests and orthopaedic tests.
Q. I don't have any injuries or problems, can I still do clinical pilates?
Definitely. Clinical pilates isn't just for the person who presents with pain or injury. It's also suitable for the healthy or highly mobile person who wants some individual pilates coaching, similar to personal training, to help improve their personal pilates practice, improve functional movement and fitness, or just for general health and well being. Your instructor will discuss your personal exercise goals with you at your initial clinical pilates assessment and outline a suitable program.
Q. How many clinical pilates sessions do I need to attend?
The number of sessions you need to attend is variable depending on your personal goals or level of presenting injury or health issue. Some clients may grasp the fundamentals very early on and may wish to move into a group class for general exercise. Others may require regular ongoing sessions depending on their level of body awareness or physical capabilities. Often, clients may combine one clinical session with two group classes per week to improve quality of movement and increase their fitness. It's always best to discuss your needs with your instructor. Or ask yourself: How dedicated am I to improving my health?
Q. Do I need a referral to do clinical pilates?
No, but it may help. If you are coming in with an existing injury/illness which has been diagnosed by a health professional such as your GP, chiro, osteo or physio we find a referral letter briefly outlining your condition and your exercise goals can help us to plan the most suitable series of exercises for you. The more information we have, the more successful your sessions may be.
GROUP REFORMER PILATES FAQs
Q. I have an injury. Can I do group reformer classes?
Yes and no. No, if you have any serious injury that you haven't had checked by a health professional, such as spinal disc issues, strains or sprains, heart problems or any history of any other serious illnesses. Perhaps yes if you have an old injury/illness that you are capable of managing well and are pain-free, such sciatica, muscle imbalances or mild joint instabilities. Generally speaking, group reformer classes are for the injury free. However, appropriate modifications will be suggested for you to do in class to accommodate your problem. We strongly advise you discuss your situation with the instructor at the beginning of the group class to assess it's suitability on the day. Remember, you risk personal injury if you fail to inform your instructor and attempt to do the class regardless. If in doubt, consult your physician for the all clear to exercise. Sometimes it's better to sit out one session than to cause further injury and be out for weeks on end.
Q. Will I feel exercise pain (delayed onset muscle soreness) after doing pilates?
There is a good chance you may experience some DOMS as a result of doing pilates. Aside from concentration on firing the deep stabilising muscles, we also seek to challenge your big prime mover muscles which can lead to you feeling that oh so good/bad muscle exercise burn during class and those great aches for a couple of days after. This often happens if you've done an activity you aren't normally accustomed to or have really pushed yourself in class. DOMS will always resolve themselves in time, but the process can be sped up by doing moderate exercise the day after a big session or by getting a massage soon after exercise.
Q. I already do another form of exercise such as running, cycling and/or yoga. Should I stop if I want to do pilates?
Not unless you really want to. Pilates is great on it's own as regular exercise but it also easily compliments other forms of exercise by helping to improve your self awareness, strengthen your core and improve biomechanics (the way your body moves). People who do a combination of pilates and yoga often see an improvement in their yoga practice as their joints become freer and easier to stabilise during challenging poses. Runners and cyclists can feel an improvement in their chosen sport as they learn to better track their hip/leg/ankle motions to reduce problems such as ITB syndrome or achilles tendonopathies.
Q. What should I wear to classes?
We suggest you wear comfortable workout attire that allows freedom of movement without restriction. It is important that your clothing isn't too baggy as we need to easily observe your body levels and movements to ensure the exercises are performed correctly. Pilates is usually performed without shoes and socks. If you prefer to wear socks for hygiene and comfort, we recommend you try a pair of our Move Pilates Non-Slip Socks with grippy soles so you that don't slip on the equipment.
PREGNANCY
Q. I'm pregnant. Can I do pilates?
Pilates is usually safe to do in pre/post natal situations where the client has already been doing pilates, does not present with morning sickness, low blood pressure, advanced pelvic instability, a history of miscarriages or advised not to do any exercise by their physician. Pilates in general helps you to activate and strengthen your pelvic floor muscles and transverse abdomimus muscle which supports your stomach and lower back. Both are very important to maintain during and after pregnancy to reduce pelvic and lower back pain, and may help the recovery process.
Talk to an instructor to see how you can join a small group prenatal class. Smaller groups mean more attention, which is safer for you and your baby.
Q. I'm pregnant and can't lie on my stomach or back anymore. How can I do pilates?
Our studio is equipped with a pregnancy wedge if required, which allows you to lie semi-recumbent either on a mat or the reformer. So you can still comfortably do alot of the exercises during group classes or 1:1 sessions, otherwise your instructor will modify your exercise to suit or give you another challenging repertoire to perform. Always let your instructor know when you are pregnant before commencing any classes. If in doubt, consult your physician or obstetrician for approval before exercise.
PRIVATE HEALTH & HICAPS
Q. Can I claim Remedial Massages and Myotherapy on private health insurance?
Yes. All of our practitioners are registered with the major health funds. Visit our Private Health Insurance page for more information on how you may be able to claim on Massage and Myotherapy services.
Q. Can I claim pilates on private health insurance?
No. Clinical and Group Pilates can no longer be claimed on private health insurance unless it is run by a physiotherapist. Our instructors have undergone extra training to work with clients who need hep with soft tissue and joint injury and sports rehab, pre/postnatal, pelvic floor and postural issues.