FAQ's

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What does massage do? Massages can help you relax if you are stressed, can help with muscle or joint pain, can help with circulation issues and even headaches.

How can massage help me? Depending on what is going on and the issues or pain you may have massage can help on many levels, please read below to see what some indications or contraindications for massage can be.

These are some indications that can tell you, you need a massage....

The list of indications for massage is extensive, but here are some common issues to help you to understand: back pain, neck or shoulder pain, muscle spasm, muscle weakness, whiplash, nerve injuries, carpal tunnel,sciatica, poor circulation, tendinitis, arthritis, fibromyalgia, constipation, headaches and migraines, sinus issues and stress in general.

For any questions you may have please feel free to call me.

The definition of a contraindication for massage is a reason not to receive a massage. A contraindication is something that massage may interact with negatively, for example a fever or severe pain.

There is a long list of contraindications for massage. Put simply, if you present with an absolute contraindication, under no circumstances should you receive a massage. For example, contagious diseases, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, severe pain, kidney disease, or a history of thrombosis (blood clots) are all considered absolute contraindications for massage.

It’s not all black and white though. There are varying degrees of indications and contraindications. Contraindications may be further defined as relative or absolute, general or regional. What’s more, they can be a combination of these. 

Absolute contraindications
When something is considered an absolute contraindication, it means that you should not receive a massage in that particular area no matter what the circumstances. For example, if you had DVT (deep vein thrombosis) under no circumstances should the lower calf muscles be massaged.

Relative contraindication
When there is a level of caution or danger associated with a massage treatment, it is called a relative contraindication. With a relative contraindication, the massage may be performed, but simply modified to ensure the safety of the indicated area. This is typical where there has been a recent injury, or where there has been surgery. In these cases, a particular massage therapy treatment may be beneficial so long as it is performed by a knowledgeable and experienced massage therapist who knows how to avoid damaging the delicate tissues.

General contraindications
When a contraindication affects the entire body, it is known as a general contraindication.

Local contraindication
If the contraindication affects only a localized area of the body is known as a local contraindication.

Combined contraindications

This term sounds a little trickier than it is, but put simply, a condition may be any combination of local or general, and relative or absolute. For example, DVT is both local and absolute and an acute injury to the biceps insertion would be both relative and local.

If you want to have a massage and have informed the therapist of a contraindication, it would be a good idea for you to obtain medical approval from your doctor or physiotherapist before booking a massage session.  This will protect both you and the therapist. Depending on the condition, many massage therapists will insist on medical approval before beginning a massage treatment.  No matter what the condition is however, it is essential that you always informs the massage therapist of any issues as well as all medications before treatment commences.

Jeff McGrath, Owner Namti Spa, Sedona, AZ

Alma Bocanegra and her company Soultouch Education/Massage is excellent all the way around. She is a seasoned veteran in the industry, the ultimate professional and simply put, you will be completely satisfied with her treatments and/or any education that she provides to you or your staff.

Lisa B., Nurse, Jensen Beach, FL

Alma truly has healing hands. She just seems to know where the pain and pressure is, and is able to work those areas till relieved. She is amazing!

Sandra B., Retired, Apache Junction, AZ

Alma is first and foremost committed to her clients; she provides a skilled and caring knowledge of her abilities to care for you. Thank you Alma for the cupping session!