Coatney Professional Center
2430 Constitution Ave
Olean, NY 14760
Phone: 716-373-3317

Massage

Learn more about massage, and what to expect during a massage therapy session at our Olean, NY office.

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While it is true that this can be a luxurious treat, most people today seek massage for the healing benefits it provides.

What is it all about?

Massage therapy is a profession in which the practitioner uses specific manual techniques of pressure and movement to soft tissues ( that is, skin, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and connective tissue) in order to promote relaxation and well-being.

Recognized as a type of complementary alternative medicine, it is also one of the oldest methods of healing. History has revealed records of this type of healing occurred over 3000 years ago in India, as well as in Egypt and China.

Modern research, such as studies by the Touch Research Institute at the University of Miami Medical School, continues to  demonstrate that this type of treatment is extraordinary in its ability to reduce the effects of stress and promote well-being.

What to expect at your first massage session:

If you have never had a massage, you may feel a little uncertain about the process. Here is a general overview of what to expect at your first session:

  • Before the session, you will meet with your therapist, and discuss your health history as well as reasons for seeking a massage. If you have a particular problem, such as tight muscles in a particular area, your therapist may want to spend a little more time focusing there. 
  • Once the initial health history and specific problems have been discussed, your therapist will then leave the room, so that you may disrobe (only to your level of comfort), and get on the massage table, under the provided sheet and blanket. While not necessary, male clients often bring gym shorts to change into.
  • The session will take place in a peaceful, comfortable room. Lighting is often turned down, and there will be soft music playing. You will always be draped with a sheet, only the area being worked on will be exposed. A typical full body one hour session will involve bodywork to the head, neck, shoulders, arms, legs, feet, and back. A light oil or lotion is used. Please alert your  therapist to any allergies you may have to oils or lotions.
  • When the session is completed, the therapist will leave the room. You will be advised to get up slowly, as this bodywork can sometimes leave you feeling slightly lightheaded. You will be given time to get up and get dressed. You will be advised to drink plenty of water following the session. After your session, your body and mind will initially feel as if they have been slowed down. You will feel relaxed, and your mind and body will feel refreshed and rejuvenated.

  And a few final tips...

  • During your session you will feel relaxed, and rejuvenated. Please remember that communication is vitally important in order to achieve the desired outcome .

  •  Massage therapy should never be painful. Sometimes to work out tightness in the muscles and soft tissue, there will be mild discomfort. However, this type of discomfort actually feels good , since relieving muscle tightness also relieves pain.
  • Deep tissue work should not be about working deeply into the muscle and causing pain. True deep tissue massage is performed by working very slowly, and allowing the tissues to release slowly.

Painful sessions do not help muscles to relax and in fact can exacerbate problems.

Learn what the Mayo clinic says about Massage

Learn more about the benefits of massage  here.

Check out our Massage Menu