Frequently Asked Questions

No question should be left unanswered.  Columbus Massage Center staff will try to assist you in getting your questions answered as quickly as possible.  If you have a question that is not on this list, don’t hesitate to call the office or send us a message.

I have a 60 minute massage session. Does that mean I have to get a full body massage?

No. Sixty minutes is sufficient if you want a little bit of work on every part of your body. But you may also have a chief complaint on which your therapist could spend the whole hour. We often work on one complaint and all areas the therapist feels are associated for an entire sixty or ninety minute session. We can use the time as you want.

Why do you need to know my medical history?

Some medical conditions are contraindicated for massage.  This means that it would not be healthy for you to receive a massage at this time.  It is also important for your therapist to know of any medications you are taking.  If you are taking a blood thinner, for example, you may be prone to bruising and a deep massage would not be advisable.  Other medications may cause low blood pressure or diminished pain sensation.  Your massage will be adapted to your medications effects on the body

How do I know Columbus Massage Center is a legitimate clinic?

Although you might think massage parlors that offer sensual or erotic massage may look obviously seedy, it can be sometimes be difficult to spot these places.

If you’re trying a new clinic or spa in Columbus Indiana, it’s a good idea to call first and ask these questions:

  • Do you offer therapeutic massage? (our answer: YES)
  • Are the massage therapists certified or licensed? (our answer: YES)
  • Do you require first time clients to complete an intake form? (our answer: YES)
  • Are you in compliance with the City of Columbus Massage Ordinance? (our answer: YES)

A licensed massage therapist will not offer or solicit sexual acts during any massage.  If a client suggests by words or actions, any activity that would be interpreted by the therapist as inappropriate and of a sexual nature, the massage session will immediately end.  The client will be asked to get dressed and return to the lobby area. The therapist will leave the treatment room and notify the Columbus City Police Department of the occurrence.  The client will be charged the full price for the time scheduled.  The client will no longer be permitted to schedule appointments at Columbus Massage Center. 

Am I supposed to tip?

If you get a massage at a spa or hotel, a 15% to 20% tip is standard if you were pleased with the services.  There are no real ground rules or norms when it comes to massage in a clinic setting, it is completely up to you.   If tipping isn’t your norm, you can always show your appreciation by referring friends, family and co-workers to Columbus Massage Center.

Will the massage therapist be there when I undress?

In North America, the massage therapist will leave the room so that you can remove your clothing and lie on the massage table (usually face down, but not always) under the top sheet.

Don’t rush or worry that the massage therapist will walk in on you — the massage therapist will knock and ask if you are ready before entering the massage room.

Am I supposed to take off my underwear?

Many people prefer to keep their panties or briefs on during a massage, while others prefer to be completely nude. It’s up to you.

If your problem areas are your lower back, hips, buttocks, or groin, underwear can sometimes get in the way of massage work, but can be worked around.

In North America, if you do remove your underwear, licensed massage therapists must ensure that you are always properly covered by a sheet or towel. Only the area being massaged will be uncovered.

What if I realize I’ve drooled?

Many people fall into a peaceful slumber during the massage but when they wake up, they notice a pool of drool on the pillow or massage table. This is very common. It often happens when people are being massaged while lying face down on the massage table.

Don’t be afraid to ask the massage therapist for a tissue.  It’s a great complement to the therapist.

The pressure isn’t deep enough/is too deep, but I don’t want to insult the therapist’s technique. What should I do?

Communicate openly with the massage therapist.  If you like a deep massage, inform your therapist to add more pressure.  Keep in mind that massage therapy does not have to hurt to be effective and can be uncomfortable. When massaging areas that are tight or rehabilitating, your pain receptors can fire.  This can be beneficial because it stimulates an immune response in your body and helps to rebuild the tissues in the area. But if deep work makes you tense or you just don’t like it, there are always other ways to try to help.  Some types of massage therapy are gentle and do not involve deep pressure or pain.  It’s your massage, we want it to be enjoyable for you as well as therapeutic.

Should I talk during the massage?

Although some people prefer to talk throughout the massage, don’t feel like you have to make conversation with the massage therapist. Feel free to close your eyes, relax, and drift off into massage dream land.

Deep tissue massage and sports massage sometimes require more feedback. The massage therapist often works on deeper layers of muscle and will want to ensure that the pressure is not uncomfortable.

Be sure to speak up if:

  • the room is too hot or too cold
  • you experience pain
  • you have any questions related to the massage
  • there’s anything you forgot to mention during the consultation

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