Massage FAQs

Answers to our most Frequently Asked Questions about our Massage Services

Massage FAQs

Personal Massage
Is massage painful?
It’s not unusual to feel some soreness after a massage. This is due to a release of lactic acid in the muscles, but it doesn’t last long. You may also have some discomfort during your massage. This depends on the area I’m working on, any pre-existing pains, and whether there is too much pressure. You can always ask me use less pressure at any time if it’s too uncomfortable.
Do I have to take my clothes off?
No! I will ask you to remove clothing only as far as you feel comfortable. If you only want to undress to your underwear, that’s fine, as well as leaving all your clothes on.

I will leave the room while you’re undressing and will provide sheets and blankets to cover you during the massage. There are some massages that work well if you want to remain clothed, so discuss this with me before the session.

I’m self-conscious about some part of my body. What should I do?

We all have parts of our body we’re self-conscious about. Some areas you may be concerned about are:

  • Your weight
  • Unwanted body hair
  • Scars
  • Acne or other skin blemishes

If you’re sensitive about a particular area, ask me to avoid it. You can also opt for a fully clothed massage.

Should I see a Massage Therapist if I’m not in pain?

Massage therapy is a great natural solution when you want relief from pain, but it can also be used as a preventive treatment too. Seeing your massage therapist regularly can help:

Lower cortisol and raise serotonin levels to calm and relax your body Loosen tight muscles, which may increase blood flow, leading to lowering your blood pressure

What if I fall asleep and drool or snore?
It’s quite normal and common to fall asleep during a massage. You might be feeling stressed and sleep-deprived, so falling asleep is normal once you’re in a relaxed state.

There’s zero judgment if you snore. Many, maybe 50% of my clients fall asleep for part of the session..

Drooling is also common, especially if you’re on your front. Ask for a tissue, and I’ll be glad to grab one for you.

What'll happen at my first massage?
I’ll ask you to fill out a client intake form to let me know about any current concerns or goals you want me to deal with.

If you have questions, please don’t hesitate to ask them.

Isn't massage just to help you to relax?
Massage is excellent for relaxation! But it also has many other benefits.

Massage helps with chronic muscle aches and pains. It helps to reduce stress and ease muscle tension. It’s also great to improve circulation, alleviate breathing problems, lower your blood pressure, reduce headaches, improve your daily mobility and wellbeing, and help you manage anxiety and depression. Massage also helps to promote good, healthy sleep.

Is it okay to ask for more or less pressure?
Yes! A good massage therapist will check in with you during your massage to make sure the pressure is okay.

Be mindful that massage doesn’t have to cause you pain to be effective. Some massage techniques are pretty gentle. But do speak up and ask me if you’d like more or less pressure during your session.

What if I need the bathroom?
I recommend going to the bathroom before your session, but it can occasionally happen that you’ll need to go during the massage. I want you to be relaxed, so if you’re focusing on holding it in, it’ll interfere with your experience. So do speak up, and I’ll let you know where the bathroom is.
What if I pass gas during a massage?
When you’re in a relaxed state, you might pass gas during your massage. It may even occur when the therapist applies direct pressure to a particular area.

Any massage therapist should let you know this is normal and just shows you’re relaxed. If you can’t bear to let it happen, just excuse yourself to go to the bathroom.

Should I talk during my massage?
Some people prefer to chat during their massage session but don’t feel you have to make conversation. If you want to close your eyes and relax, that’s alright.
What happens if I'm ticklish?
Let me know before your session. I can use firm, slow pressure or, if you’re extremely sensitive, I can avoid your tickle spots.
How can I schedule an appointment?
Call me at 707-573-5818 x 2 or email me at spatton@sonic.net
Are walk-ins and same day appointments available?
I do not accept walk-ins. Same day appointments are available depending on my schedule.
Do you offer couples massage?
I do not currently offer couples massage
What if I am late arriving to my appointment?
If you arrive late your session may be shortened in order to accommodate others whose appointments follow yours. We will do our best to provide you with the services you have booked, but we cannot guarantee the full time if you arrive late. Full payment for your scheduled services will be expected.
What should I do if I need to cancel my appointment?
Cancellations without 24 hour notice may result in a charge for your session, as that time has been set aside specifically for you.
What forms of payment do you accept?

I accept cash, check, credit card, or gift cards and certificates

Do you take insurance? What if I have a flexible spending account (FSA)?
Although I do not accept insurance, many plans do cover massage therapy with a doctors prescription and copies of receipts. I can also print out all of your visits at the end of the year.
Should I tip my massage therapist?
Tipping is neither required nor expected, but of course I appreciate the gesture! I do not depend on tips, but if you would like to leave a tip, it is most welcome and appreciated!
Is it ok to use tobacco, marijuana, or drink alcohol before my massage?
I ask that you please refrain from using tobacco, recreational drugs, or alcohol at least 4 hours before your appointment.
Massage Therapist Santa Rosa CA
Corporate Massage Pro
Massage With Scott Santa Rosa
Massage Therapist Santa Rosa CA
Corporate Massage Pro Santa Rosa
Chair Massage Santa Rosa 02

Scott Patton, CMT
633 Cherry Street
Santa Rosa CA 95404
(707) 573-5818