Sports Massage Norwest

Before Your Appointment

• Arrive 10–15 minutes early if possible. This allows for traffic delays and supports a calm start to the session.

• Allow time for first-visit paperwork. For an initial appointment, a brief health history form is typically completed before treatment begins.

• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. This is often easier to change in and out of, and more comfortable to wear home.

• Be mindful of massage products. Products used during the session may leave a light residue on the skin for a few hours afterwards.

At the Start of the Session

• A quick consultation usually happens first. There’s typically time to discuss:

  • goals for the session

  • any relevant concerns or sensitivities

  • preferred pressure

  • areas to focus on (or avoid)

Getting Settled

• Privacy is provided to change and get comfortable. The practitioner will usually step out while you settle onto the massage table and will knock before returning.

During the Massage

• Pressure is generally adjusted to comfort. Sessions often begin gently, with intensity increasing gradually if appropriate.

• Techniques may vary. Depending on the style of massage and your goals, techniques may include:

  • stretching

  • kneading

  • gliding strokes

  • friction

  • percussion

  • myofascial release

• Feedback is welcome throughout. If anything feels uncomfortable, pressure or technique may be adjusted.

• Comfort measures are available. If you feel too warm or cool, towels may be added or removed as needed.

After the Massage

• How you feel afterwards can vary. Many people notice relaxation or reduced tightness. It’s also common to feel mild tenderness for a day or two, particularly after deeper work.

• Take it easy if needed. Gentle movement and a lighter schedule may support comfort after the session.

• Stay hydrated. Drinking water may help overall wellbeing following treatment.

Details of your medical history can be very helpful in allowing your therapist to customize the massage to your unique needs. If you have any aches, pains, strains, or injuries, discuss them with your therapist. The same goes for allergies or sensitivities to massage oils.

Certain prescriptions and injuries are contraindicated with massage. It is also important that your therapists knows if you are or might be pregnant or if you’ve had any recent accidents or surgeries. They will cover these questions and others on their intake form, which your massage therapist will carefully review before beginning your session. If you have any additional questions or concerns, please make sure to raise them when you meet your therapist.

For most types of massage, you shouldn’t feel any soreness after your session. However, you may feel a certain awareness of your body. Areas that were especially tense or strained may feel sensitive, but pain is not the norm after a massage. It is recommended you drink plenty of water and taking it easy for the first two or three days after your session.

The independent massage therapists operating at Active Back Care recommend that you undress to your underpants, but they are happy for you to remove or wear whatever clothes make you comfortable during your session. While your therapist is in the room, you will be draped with towels to maintain your privacy and comfort.

Only the area being massaged will be uncovered, and private areas remain draped at all times. It is recommend that any clothing you plan to leave on during your massage is comfortable and unrestrictive. Jewelry should be removed at the start of your session.

You make the choice of whether to talk with your therapist or just relax in silence during your session. Some clients prefer total quiet, while others like to maintain a dialogue with the massage therapist about their pain tolerance and sensations during the treatment. Your therapist will usually not initiate conversation, but feel free to ask any questions during the session or request a change in pressure, room temperature, or ambient music. If you are coming for a sports massage or remedial massage, dialogue is helpful in adjusting the treatment to suit your comfort level and pain threshold.

It’s usually a good idea to eat lightly before a massage, but there’s no need for you to fast or eat differently than normal on the day of your appointment. You’re likely to feel hungry after a massage, though, so it’s a good idea to plan to eat a substantial meal shortly after your session.

It’s important to honor your body’s needs, but the independent practitioners operating at Active Back Care generally require at least 24 hours notice to reschedule an appointment without charging for a missed session. Please contact them immediately if you feel you may need to cancel or change your appointment time. It is recommended that you reschedule if you are experiencing nausea, dizziness, fever, chest pains, or if you suspect you may be contagious.

Each of the independent massage therapists operating at Active Back Care have their own unique skills, experience and certifications in one or more massage techniques.  They each hold a minimum of a Diploma in Remedial Massage as well as membership to a recognized Australian Massage Association.  Each practitioner is registered with the private health funds so their patients can claim health fund rebates. In addition, they are dedicated to continuing education and updating and reviewing their knowledge and techniques to ensure that they maintain and expand their skills to serve you better.

Yes.  There are male and female massage therapists operating independently at Active Back Care.