PENINSULA FITNESS

Your Questions, Answered


  • Is your manual and soft-tissue therapy approach different than conventional massage therapy?


Yes. Although I am a licensed massage therapist, and I regularly take massage courses to stay current with new findings and approaches, I have seen firsthand that conventional massage has limited effectiveness for certain musculoskeletal problems.I rely on highly specialized techniques to precisely address the anatomical problem generating pain or limiting functionality. This way I don't waste time working on areas of the body that are not connected to the problem.


I make constant assessments during each appointment by asking questions, observing specific movements and manipulating the problem-causing areas. I encourage my clients to be both verbally and physically engaged during a treatment. I find this active “team” approach to manual therapies helps me identify and address the problem efficiently and effectively. 


  • Why are your manual therapy sessions are shorter than a typical massage?


A conventional masseuse works on a client for a designated amount of time. During my appointments, more time may be devoted to gathering information (through palpation and movement testing) than to the hands on treatment itself. The more accurate the information is the more precise the treatment will be and the less actual hands on time needs to be. My clinical, systematic approach is more efficient than a typical massage session, and I believe it generates results faster. In fact, too much treatment can be counterproductive. Think of it this way: When you fill up your car’s gas tank, you pay the same whether it takes you two minutes or ten to fill the tank. Wouldn’t you rather pump the same amount of gas in a shorter time, it would be more efficient and save you time.

 

  • Do you accept insurance?


I don’t accept insurance. We have a tendency to avoid treatments that aren’t covered by insurance, which makes financial sense. However, I can’t think of a better way to invest your money than in your own health and wellbeing. After all, we remodel our houses without insurance paying for it. In my opinion, your health is far more important than your house.


  • How many treatments will I need? 


I wish I had a crystal ball to answer that question! I take an individualized approach to each client and every challenge or goal. Recovery rates depend of the severity of the injury or problem, a client’s commitment to following a recommended program, and his or her natural recuperative abilities.


  • Why do you treat only one problem at a time during each session? 


Intensive, focused work is the best way to resolve a problem. If I divide my time up trying to treat more than one issue in a session it compromises the quality of the treatment. This doesn't mean I limit myself to only working on one area of the body. As the body begins to reveal its compensation sequence – typical in chronic pain situations – I address the new pieces of information on a step-by-step basis wherever they are located on the body. In this way, I am able to identify and treat the primary cause of pain or injurymore efficiently.


  • I’m not making quick or constant progress. Is something wrong? 


If your pain or chronic problem is related to an existing pathology such as a worn cartilage, torn muscle or herniated disc, a non-invasive treatment may be insufficient. Sometimes, an MRI or even surgery may be needed to boost the chances of a full recovery. If a structural abnormality is the root of the problem, some clients choose to manage their condition by working with me once or twice a month. Regular, ongoing treatment helps them keep pain levels down and allows them to participate in their favorite activities. 


  • Can I do something to help resolve my problems faster? 


You have more influence than anyone on your own health. The very best way to promote health and healing? Make a commitment to following a physical training or rehabilitation program customized to your unique strengths and weaknesses. ​


  • Is the treatment painful? 


Sometimes manual therapy can be uncomfortable, depending on your general sensitivity or the sensitivity of a particular area. I constantly check in with my clients to make sure they are tolerating the pressure or palpation. When in doubt, I under treat, rather than over treat, a sensitive area. 


  • Where do physical training or manual therapy appointments take place?


I meet with clients in their own home or my home office. If needed, I can work remotely with clients via Skype. 


  • What if I need to miss a session?


Please contact me at least 24 hours in advance if you need to cancel or reschedule a session, in order to avoid charges.