We understand that you may have questions about your first appointment or how massage therapy can support your health and journey. Explore the following FAQs at CG Massage Therapy. Feel free to reach out to Claire directly to discuss your specific requirements. We are here to ensure you feel informed, comfortable, and refreshed before during & after your treatment.
Click on the links opposite to find out more about each stage of your massage journey, from booking and treatment through to after care. We have also answered questions about common illnesses and specific conditions explaining how and when massage is appropriate.
If you have further questions or wish to discuss you individual requirements please do not hesitate to contact us using the details below:
Contact Us
Mobile: 07958 547 637
Clinic: 0131 218 3000
Email: cgmassagetherapy26@gmail.com
Before
Should I eat or drink before my appointment?
Food: Avoid a heavy meal 1-2 hours prior to your appointment as lying down on a full stomach can feel uncomfortable. A light snack is fine.
Hydration: Hydrate prior arriving and be sure to use the toilet prior to your appointment to prevent any interuptions to your treatment.
What should I wear during a massage?
Whatever feels most comfortable to you. Depending on your treatment plan your therapist may ask you to remove clothing appropriate to the massage area but always only to your own comfort level. Your privacy & comfort are our top priority and we can adapt treatments to ensure you feel at ease.
Are there age requirements for booking?
Clients over the age of 18 is able to book and receive treatment independently.
Clients under 18 are welcome with parent/guardian consent subject to the following guidelines:
16-17 yrs: A parent/guardian must remain on site for the appointment is welcome to sit in the treatment room if preferred.
13-15 years: A parent/guardian must accompany the client and remain in the treatment room for the duration of the session.
Under 13: A shortened 30 min treatment is recommended. Parent/guardian requirements as above.
Anyone aged 16 or over who would like to bring a chaperone is always welcome to do so please make me aware of this when booking so I can prepare the room.
Safety: For your peace of mind, I am have been fully checked by Disclosure Scotland and hold an up to date PVG certificate for children & protected adults. I also bring experience of working with young athletes through my coaching background and working with my own children.
What should I expect at my first appointment?
Your initial appointment will begin with a consultation to review your health history, lifestyle, any personal concerns and your aims for massage. This helps your therapist to gain a complete picture of your daily stress factors and deliver a tailored, holistic and safe treatment. Before any hands-on massage your therapist will outline your personalised treatment plan so you know what to expect.
About your appointment
What if the pressure is hurting?
Communication is essential!
Your therapist will check in with you throughout the session but please do not hesitate to speak up if anything feels painful or not right.
A massage should feel 'good sore' as tensions relieves. for releases tension but not a sharp or intolerable pain. If anything feels painful during the session please do tell your therapist immediately and they will adjust your treatment accordingly.
What if I fall asleep or make noises?
Yes, falling asleep, stomach growling, deep breathing (sighs) and muscle twitches are completely normal reactions as your body shifts out of stress mode
During massage you body will move from 'fight or flight' mode into 'rest and digest' mode as your parasympathetic nervous system takes over and allows your body to relax.
As a therapist I hear these noises every day, they aren't interruptions or embarrassments they are just proof that your body and mind are getting ready for relaxation.
After Care
Slow down & unwind: Give yourself permission to step away from high-stress situations for the rest of the day. Embrace period of relaxation to fully feel the benefits of your massage
Take it easy
Rest you muscles: Skip any workouts post massage to allow your muscle tissue time to rest, repair and recover.
Stay hydrated
Massage stimulates circulation and fluid movement through your muscles. Drinking water aids hydration and helps to avoid feeling sluggish or experiencing headaches.
Things to avoid for 24 hrs
Intense workouts: Skip both high intensity cardio and strength training to give your muscles time to rest and prevent unnecessary strain while in recovery.
Alcohol & excessive caffeine: Both can further dehydrate your body and counteract the tension release gained during massage.
Extreme heat: Hold off on saunas, jacuzzis & hot showers as your blood pressure and body temperature are still resetting post treatment and the intense heat could cause light headedness and discomfort.
Is muscle soreness normal?
Yes, muscle soreness for 24-48 hrs post massage is normal especially for deep or targeted massage. It is similar to how your muscles may feel post workout. Gentle movement & stretching and a warm bath can help.
While mild tenderness is part of the healing process sharp or severe pain is not and you should contact your therapist for advice.
Health Considerations
Here at CG Massage Therapy we are very approachable . If you have any queries, concerns, questions or just wish to discuss anything before making an appointment please do not hesitate to contact us.
Under the Influence
Drugs & alcohol impair the bodies sensations and an individuals ability to communicate. This makes it unsafe to receive massage.
Infectious & Contagious Conditions
For the health & safety of all clients and staff myself if you currently have an infectious or contagious condition This includes viral infections, such as measles, chicken pox, whooping cough, active skin conditions or contagious rashes.
Localised Contraindications
Some conditions mean it is not possible to massage that specific spot however it is safe to work around the are and on the rest of your body.
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open wounds, skin breaks or burns
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irradiated skin, implants or recent injection sites
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localised swelling, bruises or recent hematomas
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recent fractures or healing surgical scars
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flare ups such as shingles, bursitis or gout
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any unexplained skin changes
Cardiovascular Conditions
Anyone who has a history of high blood pressure, angina, heart attack or stroke must consult their GP or specialist prior to booking an appointment.
While massage can be beneficial for promoting relaxation and reducing stress guidance from healthcare professionals will ensure your massage is tailored to your needs.
Blood Clots/Deep Vein Thrombosis/Varicose Veins
Massage is contraindicated over areas of active blood clots & DVT as massage increases blood circulation and could dislodge the clot, pushing it closer to the heart.
Massage over severe varicose veins should be avoided however massage over spider or thread veins is safe.
Clients on anti coagulant treatment should get GP approval prior to massage so massage can be modified appropriately
Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoarthritis & Osteoperosis
Massage offers wonderful relief for anyone managing joint conditions.
Rheumatoid arthritis: massage can ease pain and discomfort provided it takes place between flare ups.
Osteoperosis and osteoarthritis: soothing muscle tensions around affected joints can help make daily movement easier and freely. The therapist will use soft, gentle stokes to ensure client comfort.
General Inflammatory Conditions
This includes flu, common cold & gastroenteritis or any condition causing a fever.
A high body temperature or fever indicates your body is actively fighting off an infection. Massage at this time could make you feel worse as it increases your blood circulation which can intensify symptoms. It is best to wait until you are fully recovered so you can feel the full benefits of massage.
Recent Injury (Fractures/Sprains)
I would not be able to offer treatment on the injured area until at least 24 hrs post injury. Your body creates an inflammatory response known as the acute condition. During this stage (normally 24 - 48 hours post injury) massage is contraindicated.
However I would recommend the following:
Protect from further injury
Rest to allow the inflammatory response
Ice 10-15 mins at a time
Compression to reduce swelling
Elevate above heart to reduce blood flow & swelling
Massage to aid recovery (after 24hrs)
I can however massage a different area of your body during this time.
Pregnancy/Post Partum
At this time, I do not hold a specialist pregnancy massage qualification and am unable to offer massage to expecting mums
However I warmly welcome new parents starting at 12 weeks postpartum. You are more than welcome to bring your baby along with you. Just make us aware prior to the appointment.
Cancer & Oncology Care
While massage can offer great comfort but modifications are often needed depending on chemotherapy schedules, radiation sites and lymph node removal. We strongly recommend speaking to your oncology team prior to booking.
Please Note: I do not currently hold a specialist oncology massage qualification. While I am unable to treat clients who have had lymph nodes removed I am happy to welcome clients with oncology team approval who have lymph nodes intact.
While massage therapy is generally safe and beneficial for most people there are some health conditions where massage needs to be modified, delayed or avoided altogether.
For some it is advised to seek guidance from a medical professional prior to starting treatment. In others it may be that your appointment needs to be rescheduled.
At CG Massage Therapy your safety and comfort is our highest priority. Please contact us before making your appointment if you are unsure whether massage is appropriate for you.
Other
What conditions can massage help?
Massage provides targeted relief for a wide range of physical and mental health conditions including:
Joint & Muscle Pain: chronic back pain, neck pain, stiff joints, sciatica, tendonitis, fibromyalgia
Nerve & Repetitive Strain: carpal tunnel syndrome
Headaches: migraines, tension headaches
Arthritis Management: rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis
Mental Health: anxiety, depression, sleep disorders
How often do you recommend massage?
While any massage is helpfyuul for your body regular sessions can deliver the best long term health & wellness benefits. Here is a general guide to help you find an ideal routine:
Chronic Pain & Conditions (every 2 weeks): help manage ongoing discomfort, maintain joint mobility, reduce muscle spasms.
Active Lifestyles & Athletes (2-4 weeks): help speed up post workout recovery, support intense training, reduce injury risk
Stress Relief & Wellness (4-6 weeks): a monthly massage is a great way to ease everyday muscle tension, reset your nervous system, keep stress in check.
Injury & Surgery Recovery: always consult your GP or healthcare specialist to determine the safest timeline for integrating massage into your recovery programme.