Preparation for Massage

Appointment Booking;
Judy has rung the clinic to make an appointment for a back massage. Whilst making a time, I am able to ask Judy if she has had a massage before. She has never had a massage, so I enquire if there is anything in particular that she wants. Judy tells me she has had some shoulder and mid-back aches which she attributes to working at a desk all day.I clarify with Judy if she has seen her Doctor or a Physiotherapist and does she have clearance to have a back massage. I am pleased that she has been proactive and has spoken to her Doctor who has given her clearance to have a Relaxing back massage.

The next step is to establish how long the appointment will be, what sort of massage (relaxation) ,I also explain to Judy that I have a client record form and consent form that I ask that she completes on arrival and to allow 5-10 minutes for this ,clarifying this is additional time to the half hour massage time so that she will be aware of the total time she needs to allow for herself .
Finally I confirm Judy's contact details obtaining 2 numbers, home and cellphone, which allows me to TXT her the day prior to her morning appointment reminding her of the day and time.

CLIENT CONSULTATION DAY OF MASSAGE;
Judy arrives for her massage; I welcome Judy intoducing myself . There is an area with 2 armchairs and coffee table where we sit down so that I am able to give Judy the client information sheet and consent form for her to fill in. I explain why it is important that she is able to complete these so that I can treat her well and safely.
I leave Judy for a few moments to look over the forms and complete them telling her I am just going to check the massage room is warm enough.I do this so that Judy does not feel' hassled'whilst filling in the forms.

When I return I sit down with Judy and review the form with her so that I am able to clarify any injuries, allergies, any present conditions which contrindicate massage or need to be accommodated within the massage treatment.
Also allowing; Judy to ask any questions of me
Myself to clarify Judy's expectations
Any preferences re lubricant and allergies.
Explain massage process I will undertake today
Clarify my hygiene policy, re new drapes for each client, cleaning table

It is important not to rush through this process as intial impressions will set the confidence that this new client will hold in my ability and my standard of professionalism.

Moving through to massage room;
Because this is Judy's first visit to the clinic and first massage I show her the layout of the room and where the toilet facilities are . Fresh jug and glass of water if she would like a drink prior to , particulary beneficial after the massage.

Massage Time; I provide clear instructions to Judy about;
where to hang her clothes
how much of her clothing to remove
how to get on the table,where to place her head,body position
which drapes to place over herself.
To give Judy some privacy while she gets ready, I explain that I am nowing leaving the room to wash my hands,and will be back in 5 minutes and will knock before entering to make sure she is ready.