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Massage Therapy Frequently Asked Questions
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What are the differences between different types of massage?
Swedish massage is generally for relaxation purposes and overall wellness. Massage is invaluable in the absence of a health problem. Swedish is typically a full-body massage, although it doesn’t have to be. It can also range in pressure from the very light to the very firm.
Therapeutic is done when there is a specific complaint of pain or lack of range of motion. It can also be a full-body massage, although it usually focuses on the muscle groups related to the problem.
Deep Tissue is typically performed on athletes or those whose muscles are very dense. Some conditions can cause muscles to become hypertonic (sometimes fibromyalgia causes this). A deep tissue massage penetrates to the layer of muscles beneath the superficial layer. It is imperative to communicate with your therapist and drink plenty of water with this service. A thorough stretching regime is recommended.
Hot stone massage is typically a full-body massage. It can be for relaxation, but massages are always customized to your particular needs. We always spend more time where you need it. Stones are heated for increased relaxation of muscle tissue, whether it be for general benefit or to gain access to deeper muscles. Half of the stones can also be cold for contrast stone massage. This massage is a sure fire way to increase circulation and invigorate the body.
Pregnancy massage is done in any trimester and special precautions are taken. We have a special pillow for the expectant mother which allows her to lie face down for the most thorough back massage. It is only fair to warn you that some women have gone online to purchase this pillow after one session!
Click here for specialty massages.
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Why do I have to secure my appointment?
Our massage therapists book their time on a good-faith basis; however, they also request that, if you cannot make your appointment, you cancel within 24 hours. If not, your credit card will be charged, because that means the time that was reserved for you was not available for another client.
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How do I find the massage office once I am in Sunnyview?
The most direct way is to enter the hospital by the professional building entrance at 124 Rosa Road. However, if you come in the front entrance, the receptionist will give you printed directions on how to find the office.
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What are your hours?
We are open six days a week, excluding holidays. We are here as early as 7:45am and as late as 7:00pm. Our therapists are not necessarily here without an appointment booked, so it is best to call to schedule a time for your massage.
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How do I purchase a gift certificate?
Several offices in the hospital have gift certificates available. The front desk staff as well as the Wellness Center have gift certificates for purchase. You can also purchase gift certificates from the massage therapy staff directly, or by calling 518-386-3535 and using a MasterCard or Visa. The receptionists at the front desk can accommodate cash and check. The Wellness Center can accommodate cash, check and MasterCard/Visa. The massage office can accommodate cash, check, MasterCard/Visa and payroll deduction for eligible employees.
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Does insurance cover massage services?
Most insurance companies do not cover massage therapy services. However, some might. Check your individual coverage to find out if yours does. Sunnyview Massage Therapy does not do any direct billing with insurance companies, though, so if your insurance does cover massage therapy, you will be responsible for paying and then submitting for reimbursement yourself.
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Why doesn’t a person answer when I call?
We do not have a dedicated receptionist in our office, and the therapists are often busy with a therapeutic session when calls come in. We return calls promptly and make appointments to coincide with your convenience.
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Why is drinking water important?
Massage will increase the flow of blood and lymph fluid. This increases the flow of tissue waste products. These toxins are released through the urinary system. Drinking water may also relieve some stiffness and soreness that occasionally follows deep tissue massage.
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Will my massage hurt?
Your massage should be a pleasant experience from start to finish. It is imperative that you inform your therapist of any discomfort. At times clients have reported the feeling of a “good hurt” or “necessary hurt” during the deeper work, but generally healthy muscles do not hurt.
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What can I expect from a massage session?
You can expect to be greeted by your therapist and to fill out a health intake form if it is your first visit to Sunnyview Massage Therapy. Your therapist will briefly gain an understanding of what your goals are for that particular massage. They will leave the room for you to undress and get underneath the sheets. They will knock before re-entering and make sure you are comfortable before getting started.
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Do I need to come early to my first appointment?
Yes. You will need to fill out a health history form so that your therapist will be able to get to know your health needs better before customizing your massage for you. Additionally, this will give you an opportunity to ask any questions that you might have before the massage session begins.
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I saw two different therapists. How come the massages were different?
Massage is as much an art as it is a science. All of our therapists are highly skilled individuals with unique strengths and styles. We have the perfect match in therapist for everyone.
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I have osteoporosis. Can I have a massage?
Absolutely! Therapeutic or Swedish massage may alleviate a lot of stress and symptoms of osteoporosis. Unfortunately we are not able to perform deep tissue massage on anyone with osteoporosis.
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Do I have to take my clothes off?
You do not have to do anything you are not comfortable doing. Most people undress to their underpants, but some leave all their clothes on. It is the therapists’ job to adapt to your needs. Fully clothed massage means certain strokes and oil will not be used.
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What ongoing specials do you offer?
We offer seasonal discounts so be sure to check this site for Online Specials. The only ongoing discount we offer is for part and full-time employees.
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How often should I receive massage?
That depends on you! If you are trying to achieve a health goal, one a week is the preferred frequency. Others come twice a month, and upon reaching a goal many people come once a month. We have clients that come once and twice a week, to those who come once every two months.
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I have more questions. How do I get them answered?
You can contact the massage coordinator Laura Brown, MSPT, LMT, by email at brownla@nehealth.com. You can also try US mail at
Sunnyview Massage Therapy, suite 387
1270 Belmont Ave.
Schenectady, NY 12308
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Can I have massage with other therapies?
Yes, you can! Often times, massage works very well with outpatient physical or occupational therapy.
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Are you there only for the patients in the hospital?
No. Although we do service Sunnyview and Ellis inpatients, Sunnyview Massage Therapy is open to the public. A person does not need to be a current or former Sunnyview patient to be able to make an appointment.
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