Frequently Asked Questions:
How can I schedule an appointment?
- Online: www.ClintonKyles.com
- Call/Text: (760)991-4010
- Email: clintonkyles.cmt@gmail.com
What should I expect during my first in-home appointment?
- Upon arrival, I will text you that I have parked and confirm that you are ready for me to approach the space. Before entering I will record both of our temperatures and converse about any concerns or underlying conditions. Once you have submitted a New Client Questionnaire and COVID-19 Waiver I will setup my table and small essential items station. Personal Protection Equipment will be used for the duration of the session as well as a massage table barrier. We will adjust lighting, temperature and music before I step out to wash my hands. Once alone, you will be able to undress and settle onto the table. After a few minutes, I will knock to let you know I am ready to enter the space.
What sheet set do you recommend I invest in?
How much clothing should I remove when undressing?
- Please disrobe to your personal level of comfort. Almost all massage techniques can be modified and utilized above a sheet layer. Some people prefer to keep their underwear on during a massage, while others prefer to be nude. If your problem area is your low back, hips, buttocks, or groin, tight-fitting or large underwear can sometimes get in the way of massage work. You can ask your massage therapist before getting changed. Women usually remove their bras to allow the massage therapist to work on the back and shoulder area without getting massage oil or lotion on their garments.
What if my massage hurts?
- Open communication with your massage therapist is key. If you have an injury or chronically tight or painful areas, be sure that your therapist is aware of it before the start of the session. If the pressure is too intense, tell your massage therapist immediately. It's a myth that any form of massage therapy (even deep tissue massage) must be painful to be effective. Pain during a massage isn't a sure sign that the massage is helping. In fact, pain can cause muscles to seize up, making it harder for the massage therapist to ease tense areas.
How often should I receive a massage?
- That is unique to the individual. On average, if you are just looking for occasional relaxation, then a session every 3-5 weeks is common. However, if you are looking to address a specific condition, more frequently is best at first and then slowly taper down to a maintenance schedule. Frequency of sessions should be discussed with your massage therapist after your treatment.
What can I do to help alleviate general soreness after my massage?
- Post care is very important following a massage. Drink plenty of liquids (water, coconut water… etc.) and consider adding Ibuprofen or Arnica to your regimen. A hot salt bath will continue to relax the body and aid in muscle recovery. Eat a well-balanced meal, and get plenty of rest following your massage.
What forms of payment are accepted?
- Clinton Kyles, CMT accepts Cash, Venmo, Apple Pay, Cash App, and PayPal as form of payment. For corporate events, an EMV reader is available for a small fee.
Should I tip my massage therapist?
- Although a tip is never required, it is always appreciated! In North America, a 20% tip is standard if you were pleased with the service. If you were given a gift certificate or purchased a deal through a discount site, a tip based on the original price is customary.
Can I bill my massage through my insurance provider?
- Soon, but not yet. Please stay tuned for more information on insurance billing. Clinton Kyles, CMT is a registered National Provider Identifier and can be found in the database at: https://npiregistry.cms.hhs.gov/
What if I feel self-conscious?
- Being self-conscious shouldn't keep you from seeking health care, whether it's visiting your doctor or seeing a massage therapist. A professional massage therapist will be non-judgmental and create a comforting environment. If you didn't have time to shave your legs, not to worry! Whether or not there is hair on your leg is of no concern to your massage therapist.
Should I make conversation with my therapist?
- Although some people prefer to talk throughout the massage, don't feel like you have to make conversation. Many people close their eyes and try to relax. Ultimately, your massage therapist should take the cue from you. Deep tissue massage and sports massage require more feedback and may be less relaxing than other styles.
What if I fall asleep, drool or snore?
- Falling asleep during a massage is very common. Many people go into a massage stressed and sleep-deprived and feel so relaxed that they fall asleep on the massage table. Your therapist won't judge you if you snore during the massage. In fact, it’s like applause! When you wake up, you may notice a little drool on your face or on the massage table. It's common and has to do with your positioning on the massage table. You don't have to do anything about it, but you should feel free to ask for a tissue.
What if I need to use the restroom?
- Going to the bathroom before the massage begins is ideal, but if you need a bathroom break during the massage, be sure to let the massage therapist know. Holding it for the duration of the massage isn't comfortable or conducive to relaxing bodywork.
What if I feel digestive pressure or need to pass gas?
- From a massage therapist's perspective, it is far better to pass gas during the massage (often a sign that you're relaxed) than to clench your gluteal muscles during the massage to hold it in. Passing gas during a massage is normal and nothing to feel embarrassed about. If you're really uncomfortable doing it, you can always excuse yourself to go to the bathroom.
What if I develop an erection during my massage?
- Sometimes it happens. Yet, many men avoid massage for fear this will happen to them. Or, they get a massage but are unable to relax because of this fear. But there is no reason to be embarrassed. Facts are facts. Sometimes men get an erection during a non-sexual, therapeutic, full body massage. Touch administered to any part of the body can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which can result in a partial or complete erection. If you are concerned, consider wearing more fitted underwear (briefs or boxer briefs) which provide more support than traditional boxers.
- **Note: If the therapist feels that the session has turned sexual for the client, male or female, they may stop the session to clarify the client's intent, and retains the right to end the session immediately.
Can I receive a massage during my menstrual cycle?
- Yes! Massage is a great practice for helping to center your mind and body. It can help relieve menstrual symptoms like cramping, water retention, fatigue, and moodiness. Although massage can aid in fighting off the menstrual pain, it does increase blood flow which means a massage may increase your menstrual flow for a day after the massage; keep in mind, however, the increase in blood flow also has positive effects on menstruation. Increased blood flow may reduce cramps and back pain. Please advise your therapist of your cycle prior to settling on the table
Can I receive a massage if I’m pregnant?
- Yes! The American Pregnancy Association says that women can begin massage at any point during a pregnancy. However, Clinton Kyles, CMT will not schedule prenatal massages until the second trimester of pregnancy as the first trimester carries an increased risk of miscarriage. A prenatal massage is much like a regular massage, but the therapist will be careful to avoid putting pressure on certain areas and will use unique positions to keep the mother comfortable and safe. For example, rather than spending the entire session lying face-down, you will be on your side or in a semi-reclined position. This avoids putting pressure on your abdomen and disrupting blood flow. During a prenatal massage, the therapist will avoid using deep pressure on your abdomen and legs. Gentle pressure may be used, but deep pressure on your legs can cause problems if you have blood clots. If you’re high-risk, check with your doctor before booking.