Frequently Asked Questions
It's important for you to know the treatment options available ahead of time so that you can make an informed decision about how you would like to be massaged. This leads to a more enjoyable experience.
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Q: What kind of massage would be best for me?
A: Massage therapy treatments can include any or all of these options below
Hand and foot massage – the best option for someone who is new to massage and might be uncomfortable having their body worked on
Leg and arm massage – the best option for someone who is struggling with muscle cramping or pain and swelling in their extremities
Head, neck, shoulder and face massage – the best option for someone who has tension in their neck or head and may be suffering from headaches *(the caregiver 30 min massage treatment)
Gentle scalp massage – the best option for someone who always enjoyed having their hair played with or who isn’t comfortable having their full body worked on
Sidelying or seated back massage – the best option for someone who has been in a lying down position for a long time and may have some aches or pains that they would like to have addressed
Abdominal massage – the best option for someone who has been suffering with constipation, abdominal upset, or who has received surgeries and has scar tissue
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Chest massage – male or female – *only provided with written consent – can be performed for anyone who is feeling pain or discomfort in their chest/upper arm area
Hydrotherapy – the use of heat or cold packs, hot water bottles or cool/warm face clothes can be added to any treatment and are encouraged for anyone who has a preference to either heat or cold
Pillowing – there are many ways to make the body more comfortable with the simple use of pillows and towel rolls to support the body in any position
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Infant Massage Questions
Q. My baby is irritated frequently, can massage help?
A. Yes. Although nothing in life is a guarantee, many babies thrive with touch therapy which can help to stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system (rest & digest) and calm the autonomic nervous system (fight or flight).
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Q. My baby has a happy disposition, however bedtime is a struggle. What can we do?
A. Creating a customized routine with the same 2-4 steps each night can help to ease your baby into better sleep habits.
(example - snack sized bottle, bath, massage, full bottle, swaddle & bedtime)
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Q. Our baby was born with serious medical issues. Is massage ideal for them?
A. Massage is safe for *most babies. However if your baby was born with medical complications it's important to discuss massage options with your Family Doctor and/or your Pediatrician prior to booking an appointment.
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Q. I would like to purchase a gift certificate for an infant & caregiver massage for my friend who just had a baby, how can I do this?
A. A gift certificate can be purchased if the new parents are interested in massage treatment. Not everyone wants massage - so to avoid a wasted gift - we recommend discussing the infant & caregiver massage package before purchasing.
Palliative Massage Questions
Q. My loved one has been diagnosed with a life limiting illness. How can in home massage help?
A. Massage therapy can help ease tense muscles and encourage circulation and relaxation.
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Q. My loved one has been bedridden for months, is it too late to offer massage therapy?
A. It's never too late for massage. Palliative massage can be performed in a hospital bed, a lazy-boy chair, a couch or a wheelchair. We can work together to make a massage plan for anyone.
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Q. My loved one has been experiencing abdominal pain due to constipation (a common side effect of medication and inactivity) - can the abdomen area be massaged?
A. Yes. Abdominal massage as well as passive leg range of motion is ideal for constipation.
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Q. I would like to purchase a gift certificate for a family member or friend who is palliative and their caregiver, how can I do this?
A. A gift certificate can be purchased if the palliative patient and their caregiver are interested in massage treatment. Not everyone wants massage - so to avoid a wasted gift - we recommend discussing the palliative & caregiver massage package before purchasing.
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Hospice Massage Questions
Q. My family member will become a resident at the Huron Shores Hospice in the next few months. When should we inquire about palliative massage?
A. Due to the nature of palliative massage, we recommend discussing it with the Hospice team as soon as possible. To ensure all paperwork is completed and that your massage treatment goals are clear before being admitted to the Hospice.
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Q. I am being admitted to the Hospice soon and I've never had a professional massage - what should I expect?
A. Hospice palliative massage is very different than a clinic or spa massage treatment. Our main focus and goal is to provide you the most comfort possible. We use only unscented warmed fractioned coconut oil to your skin and apply extremely gentle muscle manipulation and soft nerve strokings. We have a massage menu for you to choose from, so you get to plan what areas of your body you'd like worked on. It's important to always keep in mind that you as the resident are in charge of your massage - if at any time you'd like to stop or modify treatment it is 100% up to you.
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Q. I'm not comfortable having someone work on my full body, can I request just to have my hands or feet massaged?
A. Yes! YOU plan your massage and together we create your treatment plan - the choice is yours as to what you do or don't want massaged.