We understand that filling out paperwork before a massage is not everyone’s favorite thing to do, but it is a vital step in how we operate as therapists. Thankfully, this “New client” form only needs to be completed once, updated each year, and generally takes 5 minutes or less to complete.   

But have you ever wondered why we need these forms completed? Here is a quick break-down on why they are required…  

1. Your health matters. In short, providing your health history ensures a more safe and effective massage. When we review your intake form, we learn about everything that may have contributed to your current health. This allows us to have a better idea of how to prevent possible injury during treatment and can improve on the home-care we provide to suit your evolving needs. 
2. So does your medication. Did you know that taking something as simple as Tylenol prior to an appointment can change the experience, or even benefits of the massage? Knowing what medication you’re taking (and when you’ve last taken it) allows us to figure out if we need to adjust the pressure or techniques we use, as well as inform you of how it might impact your massage. 
3. The more we know, the better. Completing your health history allows us to make informed decisions when a condition or issue is outside our scope or we know that collaboration with another healthcare professional would benefit your health. We are fortunate to have a growing collection of professionals on hand so don’t be afraid to ask! 
4. It protects your therapist. Given the sensitive environment in which a massage therapist works, accurate documentation is vital (and legally required) in our field. This includes not only your health history form, but the notes we keep for every treatment we perform. 

As always, we welcome any questions or concerns you may have about anything we do, including these forms. Our goal is always for your best health. Thanks for doing your part!