Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

What is Fascia?

Accepted Answer

Fascia is a continuous network of connective tissue that connects and supports the musculoskeletal system, forms the structure and contour of the body and surrounds all of the muscle fibers, organs, nerves and blood vessels of the body from head to toe without interruption. Healthy fascia is loose, fluid and elastic, allowing movement with little or no resistance. Trauma, overuse, dehydration and lack of movement due to a sedentary lifestyle or compensation to injury can cause fascia to become tight, rigid and less flexible, forming adhesions or “knots.” This fascial tension can limit movement, create structural imbalance and restrict local blood and lymphatic circulation.

Question 2

What is the difference between your services and Swedish or Spa massages?

Accepted Answer

Many popular modalities of therapeutic massage and bodywork are designed to relax you or provide temporary relief of a specific complaint. St. Louis Institute for Rehabilitative and Sports Massage offers a synergistic, global approach combining Myofascial Integration, Structural Integrative Therapy, Active Isolated Stretching, CranioSacral Therapy and Graston Technique including Sound Assisted Soft-Tissue Mobilization. Our goal is neither relaxation nor temporary relief. We help your body work at an optimal level by releasing connective tissues throughout the body to support structural alignment, increase range of motion, improve posture, decrease regional pain and promote rehabilitation from injury.

Question 3

What should I expect during an appointment?

Accepted Answer

At your first appointment, you will complete a health history form so we can identify any conditions that could present a health risk. Your therapist will discuss your needs and goals, set clear expectations, and determine a plan using the modalities most suited to your situation. You will lie on a comfortable table and adjust your positioning as needed. Our approach requires active participation through precise movements or stretches and by assessing changes in your body throughout the session. We provide a tank top and ask that you bring loose fitting shorts. Each session typically lasts about two hours.

Question 4

How will the bodywork feel?

Accepted Answer

Our therapists use a combination of strokes and techniques to slowly and gently stretch and open your body’s fascia. This creates a heating effect on superficial tissue, allowing deeper work to happen gradually. Depending on the condition and intensity of restrictions in your fascia and muscular system, you may feel pressure or temporary discomfort as restrictions are released. Discomfort can be normal, but sharp pain is not acceptable. Please share feedback during your session so your therapist can adjust the approach as needed.

Question 5

How will I feel after the session?

Accepted Answer

Most clients experience an immediate improvement in structural balance and range of motion. We recommend drinking plenty of water following each session. You may experience soreness in areas that received more attention in the days after a session. It should feel similar to soreness after a good workout and typically subsides within a few days.

Question 6

What are your policies?

Accepted Answer

We accept cash, checks and major credit cards for services provided. Gift certificates are available and can be purchased at our office. If you must cancel an appointment, please contact us at least 24 hours before your scheduled time. If you fail to cancel or arrive for your appointment, you will be required to pay for the session. Late arrivals cannot receive an extension of their scheduled time.

Frequently Asked Questions

01What is Fascia?

02What is the difference between your services and Swedish or Spa massages?

03What should I expect during an appointment?

04How will the bodywork feel?

05How will I feel after the session?

06What are your policies?

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