Best results are achieved over the skin. With Clothes on, this modality can still be performed but this would become more of shiastu. Over the clothes, best results may not be achieved.

Any clothing – can be changed to hospital gowns or draped using sheets on the table

Choices:
Be on table as you entered with clothes on
While its possible to work in this way, best results may not be achived and you may get oil or lotion on your clothes. But this option may still work if you have to choose this.

Hospital Gowns or wear loose clothing that can be worked underneath:
Hospital gowns provide a way to work on the back with less interruption or you can choose to wear something that will help to uncover or be able to work on the back or arms or legs

No Clothes:
Sheets provide excellent draping solution as you will be always covered by the sheets and the part that is being worked on is the only part that is exposed.

• Stay hydrated.
• Hydration begins at least 24 hours prior to your time with a massage therapist.
• Deep tissue massage releases toxins from your muscles.
• Making sure that you are hydrated when you go into the massage makes it easier for your body to flush out these toxins as quickly and efficiently as possible.
• Also, well-hydrated muscles are more pliable, which may make it easier for the therapist to break up the toughest Adhesions (knots) without causing too much discomfort.
• Take a shower. While this may not always be possible, taking a shower can make the massage a more relaxing experience.
• The warm water will help loosen your muscles, which another way to reduce potential discomfort during a deep tissue massage.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothes. For some, wearing comfortable clothing can automatically trigger muscle relaxation.
• Also, muscle soreness may vary after the massage is over, so loose clothes may be easier (and more comfortable!) for you to put on before you leave the clinic.
• Know your goals for the massage. If you have a particular goal for the massage — such as tension relief in a particular area or healing support for a specific injury — remember to enter in the preference or intake forms. That way, they can be sure to address your concerns.
• Make sure you limit your food intake before the appointment.
• Do not eat a heavy meal or drink a large amount of liquids in the hours before your massage.
• Deep tissue massage requires intense pressure, which can be uncomfortable if your stomach is full or trying to digest a large meal.

1. Continue to drink water.
2. Just like being hydrated before the appointment, drinking water afterward can help flush out the toxins that were released by the massage.
3. Maintaining your hydration levels after the massage can also reduce post-massage side effects like soreness and nausea.
4. Eat well. It’s best to avoid a heavy meal after a massage, but you also want to make sure that you are getting enough nutrients.
5. Deep tissue massage stimulates blood flow to needy muscle tissue, so you want to be sure that the blood is carrying the nutrients you need.
6. Get a good night’s rest.
7. While you’re sleeping, your muscles are able to recover from the stress of the massage and efficiently utilize the nutrients that are being provided by the increased blood flow.
8. Aim for a minimum of 6 hours.
9. Schedule a follow-up appointment. A single deep tissue massage can definitely make a difference, but many patients notice more significant improvements with regular massage appointments.