If you have additional questions not mentioned here, please contact us and we will be happy to help you.

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What can massage therapy help with?

Receiving massage regularly can be a great aid in relieving soft tissue aches and pains, healing injuries and preventing further injury, alleviating muscle soreness and cramping, increasing joint flexibility and range, improving sleep, mental wellness, and general health, as well as increasing the body's natural healing process and metabolism. Studies have been done on a wide range of conditions (anxiety, depression, headaches, multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, tendinitis, stress, carpal tunnel syndrome, postural dysfunction, etc.), which have shown that massage therapy benefits individuals with the said conditions.

 

What kind of therapies does The Walnut Tree offer?

This clinic offers different forms of massage therapy, cupping, and manual lymph drainage. Relaxation massage uses light to medium pressure to promote relaxation and mental wellbeing. Therapeutic (or deep tissue) massage uses deep pressure to relieve aches and pains caused by taut tissues, adhesions, and fascial restrictions. Isolating trigger points (hypersensitive "knots" in the muscle) is also part of a therapeutic treatment. Prenatal massage targets specific needs of pregnant clients. Vodder Manual Lymph Drainage uses very light pressure to promote healthy lymph flow and can help with a variety of conditions. For information about cupping, please visit our CUPPING page to read more about that service.

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If I've never had a massage before, what can I expect?

New clients are first required to fill out our online intake forms before the treatment begins and the intake is emailed to the client beforehand. It is advised you show up 15 minutes early as a new client. Front desk staff will take any other information needed, such as your extended health benefits plan. Your therapist will then take you to the treatment room to have a consultation and to discuss today's treatment. The therapist will leave the room to give you a few minutes to undress in privacy, lie on the massage table, and cover yourself up with a sheet and blanket. The treatment begins immediately once the therapist returns. At any time throughout the session you have the right to ask questions about your treatment, request more or less massage pressure, to chat about the weather or your favourite band, to fall asleep, or to stop the treatment for any reason. The massage space is a safe space!

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Am I required to remove my clothing?

You may remove as much clothing as you are comfortable with. The massage therapist ensures that professional, proper draping techniques with the sheet is used at all times, regardless of the amount of clothing remaining on your person. Only the area that is being massaged will be undraped. Your privacy is fully respected and protected throughout the treatment. Relaxation and comfort are a must to have effective results from your massage, so undress to your comfort level. Please note, The Walnut Tree is a professional therapeutic massage clinic and any sexual conversation, behaviour, or advances will not be tolerated and the treatment will be terminated early (full fees will still apply).

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Will I experience soreness after the massage?

Every body uniquely interprets the massage in its own way. Soreness may not necessarily happen, even if you had a deeper, therapeutic massage. Some individuals experience a bit of soreness in the areas most affected by the treatment, but the discomfort shouldn't last longer than 3-4 days. Drinking plenty of water, doing localized stretching, and taking warm baths/showers can help alleviate symptoms.

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Is my Registered Massage Therapist qualified?

Tatyana has graduated from Vicars School of Massage, an accredited massage therapy school in Edmonton, AB with 2,200 hours (2 years) of experience, education, and training to professionally address your needs and concerns. Your RMT is also in good standing with the Massage Therapist Association of Alberta and is licensed with the City of Edmonton.

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Do I need a doctor's prescription to get a massage?

You do not need to bring any note to the clinic in order to receive the massage. The only time a doctor's prescription might be necessary is if your health benefits company requires you to send it to them if you have massage coverage. You must contact your insurance to ask if they need a doctor's prescription on file in order for the direct billing to be successful. You might also need a new prescription every 12 months, according to your plan specifications.

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Can The Walnut Tree contact my health insurance company?

Unfortunately, no. Due to privacy reasons, the insured member is required to contact their benefits provider directly if there are questions about the plan or coverage.

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Does The Walnut Tree direct bill extended benefits for massage therapy?

Yes. Please visit the DIRECT BILLING page for the most current list of companies we direct bill to and for further information. Direct billing will occur only once the treatment has been completed. It is the responsibility of the client to know the specifics of their particular massage coverage, since insurance plans can vary greatly from person to person. If your insurance company is not on our list, we provide you with a receipt so you can submit it to your benefits provider. We are also happy to work with your car insurance company if you started an injury claim after a car accident.

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Can any person receive massage therapy?

Massage may not be suitable for individuals with certain health conditions. Please contact the clinic if you have a condition and are unsure whether massage will be safe for you.

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How many massages should I get?

Due to your unique body and circumstance, this discussion is best had with your massage therapist. Your therapist will advise you on the length and frequency of your massage treatments in order to achieve the best results.

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Are gift certificates available?

Yes. You can purchase them online (click on the button at the top of the page) or in person at the clinic.

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I just found out I'm pregnant and I'm interested in prenatal massage to help my body during the pregnancy. When can I begin treatment?

Massage can be given at any stage of pregnancy, but it is best advised to begin after the 1st Trimester, as there is an increased risk of miscarriage in the first weeks. 

 

Is the prenatal bolster and lying face-down during the massage safe for pregnancy?

Yes. It gets great reviews for how comfortable it is and how much relief it gives to the low back. For high-risk pregnancies, please consult with your doctor first whether massage therapy is safe for your unique needs.

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Does The Walnut Tree offer prenatal induction massages?

Unfortunately, that service is not available at our clinic. Please visit other specialists for this need.

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Does The Walnut Tree offer couples' massages?

Unfortunately, because there is only one RMT present, that service is not available unless you're OK with having back-to-back massages instead of at the same time.