About Medical Massage

Medical massage is a highly specific kind of massage service we offer to qualified patients at Team Balance Massage Therapy. By “qualified” we mean that this service is only available with a doctor’s prescription.

First and foremost, understand that medical massage is an outcome-based process where the goal is always to treat the patient based on medical need. Though stress relief and relaxation may be experienced as a part of the process, a medical massage always focuses on treating underlying medical conditions.

Medical massage can be used to treat a wide variety of conditions, To name just a few reasons, medical massage can be a highly effective treatment protocol for the following:

  • Reducing or eliminating chronic pain
  • Reducing / controlling inflammation
  • Improving circulation / blood flow
  • Alleviating digestion issues
  • Increasing strength / flexibility
  • Relieving nerve compression
  • Recovering from illness
  • Recovering from injuries

Types of Medical Massage

Myofascial Massage

Myofascial release is a specific kind of medical massage where sustained pressure is applied to targeted areas of the fascia (connective tissue) surrounding muscles and bones. The goal of the applied pressure is to “release” any restriction in the targeted connective tissue to improve range of motion and reduce pain. Frank typically maintains steady pressure for about three to five minutes at a time per targeted area. The tissues must be given ample time to soften and stretch. Myofascial release may be covered by insurance with a doctor’s prescription.

Lymph Drainage

The lymphatic system works to remove waste from the body by using the natural movements of soft muscle tissues. When surgery or existing medical conditions cause fluids to build up in your lymph system and your lymph nodes, a condition known as lymphedema develops. A doctor may suggest that some patients receive lymphatic drainage massage performed by a certified massage therapist, and we can help. Lymph drainage massage may be covered by insurance with a doctor’s prescription.

Pregnancy / Prenatal Massage

Prenatal massage is a safe way for women to relax during pregnancy. Reduces body aches and stress, and also eases muscle tension. You can get a massage at any time during your pregnancy. However, many facilities, especially in the United States, do not offer massages to women in their first trimester due to the risk of miscarriage during this time.Prenatal massage uses mild pressure similar to Swedish massage. Areas of focus often include the lower back, hips, and legs. You’ll lie on your side. If you have experienced pain in the calves or other parts of the leg, see a doctor before you have a massage. Prenatal/pregnancy massage may be covered by insurance with a doctor’s prescription.

Cupping Treatment

Cupping is an ancient therapeutic modality dating back to ancient Egypt and China, as well as some Middle Eastern cultures.  It is a type of alternative medicine where special cups are positioned on your skin in areas of tension and pain to produce suction. There are plenty of good reasons to explore cupping as a therapy, including the reduction of inflammation and pain, increased blood flow, general relaxation and well-being. Cupping is a unique and beneficial way to administer deep-tissue massage, and plenty of physicians today now prescribe cupping therapy to patients as part a larger, more comprehensive treatment plans. Cupping therapy may be covered by insurance with a doctor’s prescription.

How is Medical Massage Performed?

How we perform medical massage on a patient depends on the nature of the underlying condition(s) being treated and the relative health of the patient.  Suffice it to say that whatever your specific condition may be, we can target your needs by employing a variety of techniques and physical modalities. Spa massage and medical massage may feel similar in some ways, but the techniques used can differ greatly. A medical massage therapist is trained to draw on a wider array techniques, including ones that are uniquely suited to restoring muscle health and expediting recovery from illness and injury.

Medical Massage is Driven by Treatment Planning

Medical massage at Team Balance Massage Therapy will involve specific follow-up recommendations and sometimes even take home exercises to augment your recovery between sessions. A medical massage therapist includes a targeted plan for treatment laid out over a series of timed visits.  We can also work with your general practitioner or medical specialist to coordinate treatment, and often do.

Scheduling a Medical Massage: What You'll Need (first appointment)

As mentioned previously, you’ll need a doctor’s prescription to schedule sessions with Team Balance Massage Therapy. The form you need for this is directly below. Please download/print, and get your doctor to sign it unless you are already in possession a signed prescription.
Please download/print, and bring your forms in when you are scheduled to receive massage.
If you are unable to print at home, you can complete the forms when you arrive for your first session.
Try to arrive 10 to 15 minutes early if you cannot not pre-print your forms.

Doctor’s Referral / Rx Form

Only needed if you are scheduling a medical massage.

Screening Questionnaire

For everyone.

Office Policies

For everyone.

Billing / Insurance Information

For everyone.

Body Map

For everyone.

Cupping Consent Form

Only needed if you are scheduling a cupping session.

Do you need a Medical Massage?

Your treatment will be performed by Frank Dotts, licensed massage therapist. Schedule your appointment now!