When you book a sports massage with me, tell me what you’ve been doing. A Back Bay run, time in the surf, and a hard gym session give us different things to talk about. I want to know what feels uncomfortable, what you’d like me to focus on, and what’s coming up in your week. You don’t need to be a competitive athlete.
Start with your activity
I use “sports massage” and “neuromuscular therapeutic massage” for the same service at OC Massage Therapy. Before we start, I ask about your main concern and the approach you prefer.
If you run, tell me whether you notice the discomfort during a run or afterward. If you surf or paddle, describe the movement that bothers you. If you lift or play a weekend sport, mention any recent change in how often or how hard you’ve been training. You don’t have to name a muscle for that conversation to be useful.
My sports massage page covers the appointment details. Let me know about injuries, provider restrictions, pressure preferences, and upcoming events. If what you really want is a less intense massage after a busy week, say that too.
After a Back Bay run
Was it your usual route or a longer outing than you’re used to? Is the discomfort familiar, or did something new happen? Those are useful details to bring to your appointment. If you’re still planning the outing, my Back Bay Loop guide covers the route and practical considerations.
A new injury needs an appropriate assessment before massage. Once that’s addressed, tell me which areas you’d like attention on and any advice your provider has given you.
After surfing or paddling
Tell me which part felt demanding: paddling, carrying your board, or another movement. Then tell me where you actually feel the discomfort. I don’t want to assume the area you want worked on just because I know your sport.
If pain isn’t settling or you think you’ve injured yourself, check with a healthcare professional. I can plan around their restrictions, but I can’t diagnose a shoulder injury at a massage appointment.
Before an event
Include the event date when you book and let me know whether you’ve had this kind of massage before. We’ll discuss your preferences with that timing in mind. I don’t promise that a massage will improve your performance or make you ready for an event.
Pressure and recovery expectations
You can ask me to use less pressure, change areas, or pause. A painful session isn’t proof that the work is helping. The NCCIH’s review of massage research and precautions explains that evidence varies by condition and that rare serious harms have been reported, including with vigorous massage and in people at higher risk of injury.
I don’t offer massage as a guarantee of faster recovery or injury prevention. For significant swelling, new weakness, or unexplained pain, get medical advice first. If you’re already in care, tell me about any restrictions before the appointment.
To book, Text or call Javier with your preferred day, session length, activity, and the areas you’d like me to focus on. Mention any upcoming event and provider guidance. I’ll confirm your appointment personally.