Massage & Bodywork by Russell
Russell Fox, MA 46210 | 701-B W. Fletcher Ave | Tampa, FL | 813-416-7566
Reviews
Frequently Asked Questions

 

We'll go over a brief health assesment that will be asking you about your reasons for getting a massage, your current physical condition, brief medical history, lifestyle, stress level, and any areas of pain.

We will look over what you have written to make sure that the massage is appropriate to your condition (only rarely is massage contraindicated).

I will then leave the room to wash my hands, giving you time to undress, use the restroom and get onto the massage table.

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Where will my massage session take place?

Incalls take place in my studio in a private room at 701-B Fletcher Ave, Tampa, FL 33612. Soft lighting, low level lights and relaxing music is all in place and ready.

I have limited my outcalls to the end of the day, with an additional travel charge in the greater Tampa Bay Area. I will bring everything I need to a location of your choosing. What I'll need is an area approximately 9’ X 6’ or larger. The temperature of the room should be set at a comfortable level for you. Ideally, the room will be equipped with a CD player to listen to the soothing music that either you or I will supply.


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What do I wear during the massage?

As a massage therapist, I prefer that you fully undress as elastic undergarments are difficult to work around. You will be fully covered by a drape 100% of the time. However, I am happy to work with your comfort level. Depending on the primary technique I use, you may or may not need to undress. For a full body massage, most people undress completely. However, you may choose to wear underwear. I will give you privacy to undress, and you will be covered with a sheet and blanket at all times except the area being worked on.

Due to the movements and my body's proximity to yours, a Thai massage is performed while you are wearing loose-fitting clothes.


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How should I prepare for the session?

All sessions:

  1. You should be reasonably clean, recently bathed.
  2. Allow at least 90 minutes for any food to digest before the session.
  3. Limit the intake of caffeine or you may have to urinate frequently, disrupting the session.
  4. Do not use body lotions or creams, as it can interfere with the “glide” of the massage lotion.
  5. Refrain from wearing anything with a strong scent.
  6. Do not smoke immediately before coming in.
  7. If you've just had a haircut, please shower before your session.
  8. Turn off your cell phone, pager or other noisy electronic devices.

Outcalls

  1. The room should be free of distractions, such as cell phones and pets.
  2. Please refrain from using anything with a strong scent: perfume, cologne, scented candles or incense.
  3. Please have all pets put away prior to my arrival.
  4. I would ask that you also refrain from smoking while I am there. The smell of smoke is easy to clean from the linens, but can be difficult to remove from my equipment.


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What is expected of me during a massage?
Make yourself comfortable. If I need you to adjust your position, I will either move you or will ask you to move what is needed. Otherwise, change your position anytime to make yourself more comfortable. Many people close their eyes and relax completely during a session; others prefer to talk. It's up to you. It is your massage, and whatever feels natural to you is the best way to relax. Do not hesitate to ask questions at any time. Feedback is encouraged. The feedback does not need to be verbal, it can be as simple as taking a large breath or any other sounds that could signify something that feels good or discomfort.

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How will a massage feel?
It usually depends on the techniques used. Many massage therapists use a form of Swedish massage, which is often a baseline for practitioners. In a general Swedish massage, your session may start with broad, flowing strokes (effleurage) that will help calm your nervous system and relax exterior muscle tension. As your body becomes relaxed, pressure will gradually be increased to relax specific areas and relieve areas of muscular tension. Often, a light oil or lotion is used to allow your muscles to be massaged without causing excessive friction to the skin. Do not hesitate to ask questions or mention if you feel any discomfort so that I can use another approach or technique.


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Will the massage oils used make me break-out?
I use hypoallergenic oils and lotions, which either have a mild scent or none at all. If you have something you would prefer to be used, do not hesitate to suggest it.

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Is a massage always appropriate?
No, there are several medical conditions that would make massage inappropriate. That's why it is necessary that you fill out the health history forms completely. Before you begin your initial session I will ask general health questions to rule out if you have any contraindications to massage. It is very important that you inform me of any health problems or medications you are taking.

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How long will a massage treatment last?

My preferred time to work on someone is 90 minutes. This is up to you. Lengths of sessions can vary from 30 minutes to 120 minutes. Different modalities and therapies may need more or less time. Some longer and some, like Sports massage, need less time to be effective.

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How will I feel after the massage therapy treatment?
Most people feel very relaxed. 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. Since toxins are released from your soft tissues during a massage, it is recommended you drink plenty of water following your massage

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If you have any questions not adressed in the above list, contact me russell@tampabay-massage.com