Frequently Asked Questions
 
What’s the difference between Swedish, deep and sports massage?
Swedish is what is commonly thought of when getting a massage- light pressure, meant more for relaxation, and is usually a full body massage.  Deep tissue uses more pressure. The movements during a deep tissue session are slower. Because of this, it is used for specific work with the goal of pain relief.  Sports massage uses a medium pressure at a faster pace. 
Because Mobile Performance Therapy customizes each massage session, our therapists can incorporate each of the above mentioned modalities into one session. We know how important it is for a client to be relaxed throughout the session- this allows us to easily work at a deeper pressure if necessary.
 
How long should my session be?
Session length is different for each client and should be discussed with the therapist prior to the session.  Sessions can range from 30 minutes to 2 hours. We usually suggest at least 60 minutes, if not longer. First time clients are recommended to schedule a 90 minute session. From there, our therapists can help come up with a treatment plan for you. This would determine how long your sessions should be as well as how often you should be coming in. This depends on your goals and how your body feels or reacts to our treatments.

Should I be in pain during the stretch or massage session?
This is one of the many factors that sets us apart from other massage therapists.  We do not want our clients in any pain during their sessions.  We firmly believe in the client being relaxed in order to get deep into the muscles.  Pain tends to cause people to brace themselves against either the pressure for massage or the movement in stretching, which leads to a muscle group tightening up. This is the opposite of what we are trying to do- which is relax and loosen the muscles. With deep tissue massage, cupping or stretch therapy there might be some discomfort but nothing painful.  If you feel like the massage is too deep tell your therapist. 

Can I talk during the session?
Yes.  Feedback and questions during a session are always welcome and the therapist will check in with you throughout the session.  It is your time so we are also happy to chat throughout the session. 


What do I wear during a massage session?
Maryland requires therapists to practice correct draping, meaning you will always be covered during your session.  The only part of your body that should be exposed is that part that is being worked on.  We stress that a client should be as comfortable as possible during their session so you can wear whatever makes you comfortable.  We do want to note that it is easier for the therapist to treat a session that is not covered by clothes.  Most clients undress completely or leave their underwear on.  Again, it’s all about being comfortable during the session!

What do I do with my arms during the massage session?
We tell clients to get as comfortable as they can.  When facedown on the table clients can let their arms hang off the table, lay them at their sides, or we have an arm rest that clients can utilize.  We will move you if we need to in order to access certain muscles.  We also have pillows, and large and small towels that we can use to help you get comfortable. 

Will I be sore after a session?
Some clients do experience soreness after their sessions, similar to what you feel after you workout.  This is typical after a deep tissues or Fascial Stretch Therapy session.  The more bodywork you get done on a regular schedule, the less sore you will feel and the deeper we can go!
 
Should I schedule my sessions before a workout?
MPT suggests that you schedule your first session after a workout.  Some new clients may be sore after a session or would prefer to take it easy the rest of the day.  Therapists will help clients figure out a schedule that works best for them based on how they felt after their initial session.

Do I have to be under the sheets during the massage?
Yes.  Maryland state law requires the use of proper draping.
 
Can I combine different therapies in one session?
YES!  This is one of the factors that makes Mobile Performance Therapy so special.  We want what is best for you and are more than happy to use different modalities to get the most out of each session. 

Why should I drink water after the session?
A lot of people are told to drink water after their sessions but don’t know why.  We ask that you do so to help hydrate your body.  This will help promote healthy tissue and will help get better results out of each session.
 
How often should I be coming in to get work done?
This depends on your personal goals.  We work with a wide range of clients that can come in once a week to once every couple of months.  Your therapist will talk with you after your first session to help you determine your treatment plan.

What are the marks that cups leave?
The discoloration that is left on the skin is blood that has been pulled to the surface of the skin.  These marks usually fade within a few days after the session.
 
Is cupping painful?
Sometimes clients feel a little “pinch” when the cups are first placed on the body.  This is caused by tight tissue or adhesions.  As the tissue begins to loosen, the pinching sensation goes away.  

What is the difference between all of the cups?
We utilize three different kinds of cups.  We have blue, silicone cups that are very flexible allowing us to use these during our stretch sessions.  Our plastic cups have a little more suction because of the hand pump we use.  We also use glass cups that require a flame. 
 
What do I wear during a stretch session?
You will be completely clothed during a stretch session.  It is recommended to wear comfortable clothes that are easy to move in- like gym clothes.
 
How can I schedule my session?
Mobile Performance Therapy now accepts online booking.  Visit our website or Facebook page (at Mobile Performance Therapy) to book your session.  If you have any questions or would like to book during a time we have listed as “not available”, you can email us at info@mobileperformancetherapy.com or call us at 443-203-8810.
 
What types of payment does Mobile Performance Therapy take?
We take credit cards (using Square) as well as Venmo.  If you know you are paying in cash please let us know prior to the session so we can have change if needed (we do not keep cash in the office).
 
Do I have to fill out a health history form?
Yes.  All new clients need to fill out a health history form prior to their first session.  They are available at the office or can be sent by email.  Health history forms are kept on file and are updated frequently.  Please let your therapist know if your experience any changes in health.  Therapists will check in at the start of every session to see if anything has changed.
 
Can I pick my own music?
Yes.  We usually play a mix of spa/relaxation music during the sessions unless you ask for something else.  We have Pandora and Spotify available to choose from.
 
Is it ok to fall asleep?
Yes!!  As much as we would like for you to stay awake and enjoy the session it is completely normal to fall asleep.  People snore and drool-we’ve seen it all!  That goes for shaving- it's ok to forget to shave before a session.  There is no need to reschedule because you forgot to shave!
 
Do you offer packages?
Yes, we offer 3, 5, and 10 packs as well as corporate packages.  Packages are limited to 60, 90 and 120 minutes sessions.
 
Can I break up the payments for packages?
No.  All packages need to be paid in full. 
 
Can we give sessions from our packages to friend and family?
We prefer that you use the packages for yourself but understand that you want to share the experience.  We allow clients to use one session in a package for another client.
 
Should I come in if I am sick?
No!  Please reschedule your session if you are sick.