A good massage is hard to find.
And when you’re in pain or injured, it becomes that much more important. You want someone who is competent. And you also likely want a certain level of convenience.
Yet, you may have to search around before you find that perfect fit. But it’s possible.
We asked around – What makes the best massage in Edmonton?
Let’s take a look!
1. It’s Located Close By
When you search ‘massage’ or ‘massage clinic’ in Google, the search engine will frequently show the places near you. Why? Because it’s convenient. Typically, no one wants to commute across town for their massage appointment – especially if they get a massage on a regular basis.
An ideal location is either walkable or within a 5-10 minute drive away from your home or work. You don’t have to wait in long lines of traffic. Or plan for huge time slots for your massage appointments. It’s easy.
Google Maps is further a great way to determine where the massage clinics are located close to you. It’s a great starting point. Plus, the reviews help you form a picture of each place and how they treat their clients. What do people say about it?
2. You Get the Massage Style You Want or Need
Different massage therapists perform different techniques. You likely have an idea of the type of massage you want. Is it to help you recover from a sports injury? Is it to help you relax? There’s a difference between the 2. And it’s a good idea to find out beforehand (or ask the clinic prior to your appointment).
For example, a deep tissue massage is different from a Swedish massage. Deep tissue massage is a therapeutic technique. It involves a firm and deep pressure, and you can expect to feel some discomfort during your treatment. On the other hand, a Swedish massage is more for relaxation purposes. It is not intended to help with injury recovery. The goal of this type of massage aims to help release tension and help you de-stress.
You also want to check to make sure the massage therapists are registered and fully qualified. This ensures that they have knowledge of proper techniques – and that you will get the type of massage you signed up for.
3. The Clinic Environment is Comfortable and Positive
That last thing you want at your massage appointment is to feel uncomfortable. An ideal clinic environment should be welcoming and friendly. The staff should promote a positive atmosphere – making you feel comfortable before, during, and after your appointment.
Cleanliness is another major factor here. Many types of massages involve skin-to-skin contact. If the clinic isn’t looking clean, chances are you don’t want the people in it touching you. The environment should feel and look clean and safe.
4. They Use a Convenient Booking System
You should find it easy to call and book an appointment – without issues. You shouldn’t feel pressured to make an appointment (or even a second appointment when leaving your first). Further, you shouldn’t have to wait weeks or months for your appointment. Ideally, you should be able to call and get your massage booked within a week or 2.
Today, many clinics even have easy-to-use online booking systems. A client simply goes into the online system and selects a time. No fuss and no call required. It comes back to convenience and making it easy for the client to use the services offered.
5. The Best Massage in Edmonton Has a Client-Focused Approach
Altogether, the clinic should focus on you, the client. After all, massage aims to make you feel better. And most massage therapists get into the field to help other people.
You definitely shouldn’t feel rushed through your appointment. And unfortunately, this happens at many places where they try to squeeze in as many patients as possible. They focus on making more bang for their buck, rather than making sure their clients are satisfied.
A good massage therapist, on the other hand, shows empathy and an understanding of your condition. Before your appointment even begins, they do a thorough assessment. They ask you questions. They take range of motion measurements.
During your appointment, they constantly check in with you to make sure you’re comfortable and to make sure your needs are being met. In other words, you and your massage therapist have a clear and open line of communication. If the pressure is too much, you tell them. In turn, they adjust, and then ask for your feedback on the adjustment. They strive to help you – the client. They emphasize customer service and try to accommodate whenever possible.
We’d love to hear from you! What has your massage experience been like? What do you think makes the best massage in Edmonton