Deep tissue massage

Often mildly, for a day or two, in the way you might be after unfamiliar exercise.

Severe or lasting pain is not expected. If that happens, tell us.

As much as you can breathe normally through. That is a better guide than a number out of ten.

60 minutes for one or two areas. 90 or 120 if you want the whole back, neck and legs addressed properly.

About fifteen minutes outside the peaks. Connecticut Avenue at five is the part to plan around.

A day of feeling worked-on is common; sharp pain is not. If something hurts sharply during the appointment, say so then rather than afterwards.

Move gently and keep warm. If it lasts beyond a couple of days, call and say so — that is useful information for your next appointment.

Describe the effect rather than a number: whether you want it to reach the muscle or stay above it. Numbers out of ten mean different things to different people.

Yes, and you should. Adjusting takes a second and the provider would rather know at the time.

A shorter appointment is enough for one area. Longer appointments make sense when there are several, not when there is one you want done harder.

Only if there is more to cover. Say what you want dealt with and let your provider tell you what fits.

After, with a day's gap if you can. A deep appointment the evening before a hard session is not the arrangement most people prefer.

Yes. Warm rather than very hot is the more comfortable choice.

Where it is, how long it has been there, what makes it worse, and anything a doctor has said about it.

Your provider will say so and suggest you have it looked at. Massage is not the answer to everything and they will tell you when it is not.

Yes, on site. Allow a couple of minutes for it in your timing.

Ask for them when you book. Notes carry over either way, but continuity helps with an area you are working on over time.

Drink normally. There is nothing special to do.

It depends what they are managing. Your provider will suggest an interval once they know what they are working with.

Say so. Changing down mid-appointment is as normal as changing up.

Through the button on this page. Fifteen minutes each way outside the peaks, so a weekday evening slot is straightforward.