Is it important to have a “certified” massage therapist and lymphatic drainage therapist?
Yes! Seeing a certified therapist ensures that you are seeing someone who has specialized training. This is especially important when dealing with injuries, surgeries, oncology, and rehabilitation. You don’t know what you don’t know – so though an untrained therapist may mean no harm, they may unintentionally use too much pressure or direct fluid in the wrong direction or cause harmful inflammation. Put your body in the hands of a trained therapist.
Is manual lymphatic drainage painful?
Any bodywork session should be conducted within your pain tolerance. You are always in control. Lymphatic drainage or lymphatic massage is a very gentle, hands on technique and should not be uncomfortable.
Is scar tissue release painful?
Again, you are always in control. Scar tissue release is a slow technique and may not be tender in the moment, but the tissue will respond and need time to repair. You may feel tender the next day.
Is massage safe during oncology treatment?
Yes, as long as you’re seeing a trained oncology therapist. The only contraindication (reason a massage would not be appropriate) is when a tumor has not been diagnosed or treated. During chemo, radiation, and pre and post surgery, massage and lymphatic drainage can be very supportive to the healing process.
How soon can I come in after liposuction?
As long as any sutures have closed, manual lymphatic drainage can be performed within days after your procedure. Safely, within one week.
How soon can I come in after a joint replacement?
Your doctor or Physical Therapist will let you know. As long as the incision area is closed, you can receive a massage. Often Physical Therapists will offer input on what they would or would not like to occur during a massage. You can relay their input or put me in touch with them.
Do you sell packages?
No, I do not offer packages or discounts at this time.
What type of payment do you take?
I prefer cash or check, but I am happy to process debit, credit, HSA, FSA cards through Square
How long of a session should I book and how many will I need?
I suggest starting with a 60min session. It is a good way to experience my work and the environment. After that introduction, you can decide if you’d like to lengthen the next appointment.
It is really difficult to predict how many sessions you would need to “feel better.” Every body is unique. Every injury and surgery is different. If your surgeon has recommended a certain number of sessions, we can start there and revise as we go.
What is your Covid protocol?
Masks are optional in the office. If you prefer that I wear a mask during treatment, please let me know, and I will happily do so. If you need a mask, one will be provided. If you are feeling unwell, have a fever, cough, congestion, please reschedule your appointment. We want the best environment and care for you and will monitor health code requirements.
How do I schedule?
You may call or text 707-909-0062 to make an appointment. Or you may email your request to gina@ginaperine.com. Or use the Contact Form on the Contact page of this website. I do not have an online scheduler.
What is your cancellation policy?
I appreciate your respecting my time. Due to the high demand for this work, I request 48 hours notice of cancellation. If the cancellation is less than 24 hours, the full service will be charged. Emergencies happen and I understand but alerting me that you need to cancel as soon as you know, allows me time to offer the timeslot to someone on my waiting list.
What is your specialty?
My specialty is results-based massage using therapeutic massage techniques, oncology training, and manual lymphatic drainage. I enjoy working with clients who are recovering from orthopedic or plastic surgery procedures, need oncology support and rehab, and are managing/preventing lymphedema.