FAQs

Selecting the ideal therapist to trust with either yourself or your loved one can feel overwhelming. Here, you'll find answers to some commonly asked questions about palliative and end-of-life hospice massage:

1. What is Palliative Massage?

According to the Mayo Clinic, palliative care is specialized medical care focused on relieving pain and other symptoms of serious illnesses. Palliative care teams aim to enhance comfort and improve the quality of life for patients and their families.

In line with this definition, palliative massage seeks to increase comfort, alleviate pain, and promote peace in the body. Unlike other forms of massage that target specific changes in the body, palliative massage prioritizes creating a soothing experience. It often resembles a gentle Swedish massage, characterized by long, smooth, slow, and light strokes.  It can help manage symptoms such as pain, fatigue, anxiety, nausea, and difficulty sleeping commonly associated with serious illnesses or medical treatments. 

Palliative massage also offers emotional and psychological support by creating a safe and nurturing environment for patients to express their feelings, reduce stress, and find moments of peace and connection. Additionally, it provides a sense of dignity, comfort, and empowerment to individuals during challenging times.

2. Do you exclusively offer hospice and palliative massage?

No. In fact, for many years, my practice primarily focused on sports massage, incorporating techniques like neuromuscular therapy, myofascial release, and various other modalities. I'm still proficient in these techniques and can work with individuals who aren't categorized as palliative care or hospice patients. I find working with clients who have special needs particularly fulfilling. This might include individuals with various medical conditions like EDS, Parkinson's, fibromyalgia, arthritis and more.

3. Do you accept insurance?

I don't accept insurance directly, but I can provide you with a super bill that you can submit to your insurance company for potential reimbursement. However, please note that I can't guarantee reimbursement from your insurance company. I accept payment via credit cards, cash, Venmo, and Zelle.

4. What if me or my loved one cannot move from bed easily?

It's perfectly fine if moving from bed to a massage table is challenging for you. I'm accustomed to working with clients in their current location, whether it's a recliner, a hospital bed in the living room or bedroom, or any other comfortable spot. During our initial conversation, we can discuss where you'd like to receive your massage, and I'll assess whether I need to bring my massage table along. While I do have an office and prefer clients to visit me there if possible, I understand that mobility may become an issue, in which case I'm more than happy to travel to your home. If you're in a hospital or a hospice inpatient facility, that's not a problem either—I can accommodate your needs wherever you are.

5. Do you make house calls?

I do! However, I only see patients in their home that no longer can make the trip to my office. Please see above for more clarification. Don't let this be a stressor or a barrier for you, if coming to me is too difficult, we can make it happen in the comfort of your living space, wherever that may be. 

6. Me or my loved one cannot undress very easily, is massage still okay?

Yes of course! I can work around or on top of clothing — I have some special tricks up my sleeve. Furthermore, I promise it's just as affective, and feels just as good.

7. If I am receiving chemotherapy or radiation, can I get a massage?

Absolutely, you can still receive a massage while undergoing chemotherapy or radiation. However, it's crucial to consult with your healthcare provider beforehand to ensure it's safe for you and to discuss any specific considerations or precautions.
 

8. What about infectious diseases i.e. MRSA, C. Diff.  Wounds? Bed Sores? Etc...

When it comes to infectious diseases like MRSA, C. difficile, wounds, bed sores, and others, I can generally still provide massage therapy. If your loved one is in a hospital, I'll wear full personal protective equipment (PPE) during the massage. If they're at home, I'll wear a mask, gloves, and other protective gear for safety. I'm committed to strict guidelines to prevent any risk of cross-contamination between clients. For example, to help prevent the spread of disease, I use disposable lotion cups instead of bringing in a whole bottle of lotion into the home. 

9. My loved one barely seems awake anymore, why would they need a massage now?

It's understandable to wonder about the benefits of massage therapy when a loved one is barely awake or nearing the end of life. However, even in these situations, massage can offer profound comfort and relief. End-of-life massage focuses on gentle touch and soothing techniques that can promote relaxation, reduce discomfort, and provide a sense of calmness for both the patient and their caregivers. While the primary goal may not be to increase alertness or energy, the therapeutic touch can still enhance the quality of life by easing physical tension, alleviating pain, and fostering emotional connection during this sensitive time. Ultimately, end-of-life massage serves to honor the individual's dignity and comfort as they transition, offering moments of peace and solace amid the challenges of terminal illness.

✦ If you have any more questions, please do not hesitate to reach out at any time. You can text, email, or call.