Frequently Asked Questions

What do the injury/orthopedic treatments entail?

So that we can pinpoint the issue causing you pain, we will need to perform some movement tests and/or postural assessments as well as talk to you about your issue. The soft tissue work will be designed to treat the tissues that are damaged, free up restrictions and scar tissue in the structures involved, and lengthen/relax the tight muscles surrounding and contributing to the injury. This may require strength training or assisted stretching in our exercise facilities once the hands-on work is completed.

We suggest a longer initial treatment to allow for the necessary assessments of your problems. For injuries such as tendonitis and ligament sprains, you may be scheduled for several short (15-30 mins) follow-up appointments on a weekly basis as these tissues need successive frictions to heal correctly.

What conditions can be helped by Orthopedic Massage Therapy?

Every situation is different and some may fall outside of the scope of massage therapy. Most require mutliple approaches that may also include exercise, home self care, medical consultation, and life/work changes. That said, we have helped with the following ailments over the last 20 years:

Tendinitis, rotator cuff injuries, knee injuries, frequent ankle sprains, plantar fasciitis, ITB pain/syndrome, sciatic and piriformis pain, hip pain and tension, sacroiliac sprains, lower back pain, thoracic outlet syndrome, tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, neck sprains, headaches, and temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ).

What should I wear?

Most people prefer to disrobe completely but it is important to know that you will be properly draped with a sheet for the duration of the treatment. It is easier to work on the lower back, hips, and thighs (where a lot of tension is stored) without underwear on. Some people are just more comfortable keeping their underwear on and that is fine also. The therapist will not be able to work adequately over bra straps, however, so they should be removed.

In the case of some shorter, orthopedic treatments, the therapist will only be concentrating on the shoulder or neck, etc., and it will not be necessary to disrobe.

Should I tip?

That is a tricky question because deep tissue massage lies somewhere between the medical model and the personal service model. In one case it is expected, in the other case it isn't appropriate. I tell clients if they need the work on a regular basis for health reasons I would rather have them put the money towards buying an effective number of treatments. For me, the business owner, occasion tips helps me provide a sliding scale for clients that need more work than they can afford.

Therapists working for me only receive a portion of the full price, so they do appreciate the gratuities if warranted!

How do I know what kind of Massage (ie, deep tissue, sports, myofascial release) I will need?

You don't need to know this when you book your treatment. With the exception of a strict injury treatment regimen, the price is based on treatment length and not the kind of work done. The therapist will listen to your complaints when you arrive and use the various tools in their toolbox (deep tissue, sports massage, etc.) to achieve your treatment goals. Most therapists will integrate many different modalities into one session.

How much notice do I need to provide when canceling?

We require 24-hour notice for cancellations to avoid being charged for the missed appointment.

Can I get a same-day appointment?

You are most likely to get a same-day appointment if you can come during the daytime. Weeknights and weekends are in high demand and fill up first! That being said, cancellations do occur and schedules change, so call or email to check. Subscribers to the CDF Bodywork newsletter and social media will receive email blasts announcing last-minute availabilities.

Is my credit card being charged when I book online?

No. Payment is taken at time of treatment. Our booking system requires a valid credit card for all appointments. The card is verified upon booking but it only charged in the case of a no-show or late cancellation.