No. Although many of the techniques were designed to help with sports injuries or keep athletes in an optimal condition, they are equally useful for people with everyday issues such as lower back pain or shoulder pain etc. In fact, very few of my clients are athletes. Most of them are just suffering discomfort as a result of everyday problems such as those caused by sedentary jobs, minor accidents, general aches and pains or simply getting older.

No and yes. There are certain aspects of sports massage that can be uncomfortable but most people describe it as oddly pleasant discomfort. One thing that I do not believe in however, is using excessive force during the massage. People come to me in pain so why would I needlessly inflict more pain. The old assumption that no pain means no gain is incorrect. Gentle but correctly applied pressure can be a very powerful tool. If you have specific concerns about treatment related pain, I am always more than happy to discuss this with you prior to your appointment or during your initial consultation and I will always adapt your treatment to meet your individual requirements. Scar therapy and Manual Lymphatic Drainage are both gentle treatments and should not cause any undue discomfort.

For sports massage I usually recommend just underwear for the actual treatment. Some ladies like to keep their bras on and others are happier removing them. I do however recommend that if ladies do want to keep their bra’s on during the treatment, they should wear a bra that unfastens at the back so that I can access their upper back and shoulders if necessary; i.e. no sports bras etc. During the treatment, any areas that are not being treated will be covered up at all times and I always do my upmost to maintain a clients dignity throughout their visit. In keeping with my informed consent policy, all clothing removal requirements are discussed prior to the treatment and clients always have the final say on what clothing they do or do not remove.  Whilst you are undressing and dressing, I do remain in the room but will at all times face away to give you your full privacy. For Manual Lymphatic Drainage clients; if you have been given compression garments, please do wear them to at least your first appointment as I do need to see what you have been issued with.

The key thing that helps me is, where possible, arrive clean. A wash or a shower prior to your treatment will make us both more comfortable. Also, avoid heavy meals and please do not arrive having used alcohol or illegal drugs.

Technically, no. During the acute stage of an injury, that is the first 48-72 hours following the trauma, sports massage is not recommended on the injured area. However, I do have a therapeutic ultrasound machine which I can use within the first 48 hours and beyond. This can help relieve some of the initial pain and help to accelerate the healing process. If you have suffered an injury, please DO NOT use ice on the injury as this slows down the healing process and can prolong your recovery.

Yes, of course you can. You are free to do whatever you please with your body and both massage guns and foam rollers can be very helpful. However, neither are a substitute for the experienced hands of a professional massage therapist and neither will adapt or react to the nuanced feedback that a massage therapist receives from your tissues through their hands. If you want a treatment that delivers specific outcomes, nothing beats a real human.

No, I am currently not trained or insured to treat people whilst they are pregnant. If you are currently pregnant or think you might be pregnant, I am happy to refer you to someone who is qualified to help you.

Generally, yes you can. It may be worth contacting me before booking just to double check as sometimes treatments have to be modified, especially if you are having or have had chemotherapy within the last ten years. If you are seeking Manual Lymphatic Drainage for cancer related issues, please choose ‘Lymphoedema Management’ when you book.

I have a card reader so I can take all major cards and payments through phones and smart watches etc. and I am also happy to take cash but please, no cheques. If you have booked online and paid a deposit, the balance will be taken when you attend your appointment.

For Sports Massage; If you have never seen me before, please book an Initial consultation or for new issues/follow up appointments book Sports Massage. For chronic lymphoedema or cancer related manual lymphatic drainage, please book ‘Lymphoedema Management’ and if you are in need of treatment following cosmetic surgery, joint replacement etc. please book Post Operative Recovery.

The NHS states that “For consent to be valid, it must be voluntary, and informed. The person consenting must have the capacity to make the decision”. Assuming that you are consenting purely because you have presented yourself for a treatment is not adequate. Prior to any treatment or assessment, I will discuss the process with you in order that you fully understand what I will be doing, how I will be doing it and why I will be doing it. I will also explain what you may experience during and after the treatment and what, if any, participation is required on your part. You will be given the opportunity to ask questions. Only once this process is concluded will permission be sought to continue with the proposed treatment or assessment. Be assured that you are free to ask questions or stop your treatment at any time if you are in any way uncomfortable with it. Your comfort and safety is always my paramount concern.