Back-to-Practice Massage Therapy Protocol
Moving forward
Currently, the safest guidelines for massage therapy practice come from the CDC and OSHA. I also will be following guidelines from the Association of Bodywork and Massage Professionals. Unfortunately, even with the most rigorous sanitation protocols, enhanced client screening, and social distancing precautions, there is still risk of COVID-19 transmission involved. Please be sure you are aware of this; when you schedule your next appointment, I will ask you to fill out and sign a new COVID-19 Liability Form prior to your appointment.
As a note, I have been fully vaccinated since March, 2021. I care deeply about the safety and well-being of my clients, my family, and myself, and I request that you respect the following guidelines. Thank you!
What has changed?
Your safety is paramount as we move forward. Please know that I will take precautions to keep both you and me safe, but at present, there is no way to completely remove risk of transmission of coronavirus.
Before your session
- Mask – Please wear a face mask at all times while in the lobby of the building, covering both your nose and mouth. During your massage, if you are fully vaccinated, you will be able to remove the mask. If you have not received a vaccination, you’ll be able to remove the mask while lying on your stomach, and then I’ll ask you to put it back on for the remainder of your massage. If you do not bring a mask, I will provide a disposable mask for the duration of your visit.
- COVID-19 Screening – In addition to our usual pre-massage conversation, I will ask a short series of questions to double-check that you are not exhibiting any symptoms of the virus.
- Have you had a temperature in the last 24 hours of 100.4°F or higher?
- Do you now, or have you recently had, any respiratory or flu symptoms, sore throat, or shortness of breath?
- Do you now, or have you recently had, any chills, muscle aches, new loss of taste or smell, or new rashes or lesions?
- Have you been in contact with anyone in the last 14 days who has been diagnosed with COVID-19 or has coronavirus-type symptoms?
In the massage room
- Linens – I will change all linens, including your blanket between each session. They will go into a cinched laundry bag at the end of each session.
- Table – I will disinfect the table and face cradle before and after your visit.
- Surfaces – I will use a bleach solution to wipe down the sink and shelves between each session. There will be hand sanitizer, a motion-sensored soap dispenser, and paper towels readily available by the sink in the massage room.
Staying updated and remaining flexible
I am committed to staying updated on all recommended safety guidelines, and this protocol can and will change as recommendations from the CDC, OSHA, and ABMP change. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to let me know. Your safety and comfort come first – now and always.