FAQ's

1. Personal Training Specifics:

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What can I expect during a personal training session?

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During a personal training session, you can expect a personalised experience designed to help you achieve your fitness goals. Here’s an overview of what typically happens:

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• Initial Assessment: We start by assessing your current fitness level, discussing your goals, and reviewing any medical history or physical limitations you may have. This helps in creating a tailored workout plan.

• Warm-Up: Each session begins with a warm-up to prepare your muscles and joints for exercise. This may include light cardio, dynamic stretching and/or mobility exercises.

• Personalised Workout: We guide you through a series of exercises tailored to your fitness goals, including strength exercises, cardio exercises, functional movements, and flexibility work.

• Proper Technique: One of the key benefits of personal training is learning the correct form and technique for each exercise. We provide hands-on guidance and feedback to ensure you perform exercises safely and effectively.

• Motivation and Support: Throughout the session, we motivate and encourage you, helping you stay focused and pushing you to achieve your best.

• Cool Down and Stretching: After the main workout, you’ll engage in a cool-down period that includes stretching exercises to help your muscles recover and improve flexibility.

 

Personal training sessions are designed to be engaging, challenging, and supportive, ensuring you stay on track and make steady progress towards your fitness objectives.

 

How often should I train with a personal trainer?

Ultimately, the best frequency depends on your personal goals, motivation, and how quickly you want to see results. We will work with you to determine the optimal training schedule that fits your lifestyle, budget, and helps you achieve your fitness aspirations.

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2. Pricing and Packages:

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What are your prices?

Our prices vary depending on the type of training sessions. To get detailed information about our pricing and to discuss a plan that fits your needs and budget, please contact us directly. We're happy to provide a personalised quote and answer any questions you may have.

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3. Special Considerations:

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Can you accommodate clients with injuries or medical conditions?

Yes, we can accommodate clients with injuries or medical conditions. We are experienced in working with a variety of health concerns and are committed to providing safe and effective workouts tailored to your individual needs. At the time of booking, you will be required to complete a Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q). The PAR-Q is designed to identify the small number of clients for whom physical activity may be inappropriate or those who should have medical advice concerning the type of activity most suitable for them.

 

During your initial assessment, we will discuss your medical history, current condition, and any specific limitations you may have. Based on this information, we will prioritise your safety and well-being at all times during your workouts. Please consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise program and inform us of any changes in your condition.

 

4. Do you offer training for specific goals?

Yes, we offer training tailored to a wide range of specific goals. Whether you're aiming to lose weight, build strength, improve cardiovascular fitness, enhance athletic performance, increase flexibility, or prepare for a special event, we can help you achieve your objectives. We begin with a thorough assessment to understand your goals, fitness level, and any unique requirements. From there, we design a training plan individual to you that includes targeted exercises, nutritional guidance, if needed, and ongoing support.

5. What equipment do I need?

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• Comfortable Workout Clothes: Wear breathable, moisture-wicking clothing that allows you to move freely. Appropriate footwear is also crucial.

• Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is essential, so bring a water bottle to keep yourself hydrated throughout the session.

• Towel: A small towel can be useful for wiping away sweat during and after your workout.

• Personal Items: If you have any medical necessities like an inhaler or insulin, be sure to bring them with you.

• Fitness Accessories: If you have any personal fitness accessories like a heart rate monitor, hand wraps, or boxing gloves, feel free to bring them.

• Positive Attitude: Come ready to challenge yourself and make the most of your session!

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When attending a personal training session, it's important to come prepared to ensure you get the most out of your workout.

 

If you have any specific requirements or need additional guidance on what to bring, feel free to contact us beforehand. We’re here to ensure you have a comfortable and effective training experience.

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6. Nutrition:

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Do you provide nutritional advice?

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Yes, we are happy to offer general nutritional advice to help you make informed decisions about your health and wellness. We can guide you on the benefits of various nutrients, supplements, and healthy eating habits. However, please note that we do not provide personalised meal plans or detailed nutritional consultations.

 

For tailored meal plans and specific nutritional guidance, we recommend consulting with a registered dietitian or nutritionist. These professionals have the expertise to create individualised plans based on your unique health needs and goals.

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How important is diet in achieving my fitness goals?

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Diet plays a crucial role in achieving your fitness goals, whether you're aiming to build muscle, lose weight, or improve overall health. Proper nutrition provides the energy needed for workouts, aids in recovery and supports muscle growth and fat loss.

 

Key aspects of a balanced diet include:

 

• Macronutrients: Ensuring an appropriate balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats to fuel your body and support your specific fitness objectives.

• Micronutrients: Vitamins and minerals are essential for overall health, energy production and preventing deficiencies.

• Hydration: Staying well hydrated is vital for optimal performance and recovery.

 

Remember, while exercise is important, it must be complemented by a nutritious diet to maximize results. For personalised meal planning, we recommend consulting with a registered dietitian or nutritionist who can tailor a plan to your individual needs.

 

7. General - Craig:

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What should I wear to a training session?

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For a personal training session, it's important to wear comfortable, breathable clothing that allows you to move freely. Here are some recommendations:

 

• Clothing: Choose moisture-wicking fabrics to help keep you cool and dry. Athletic tops, shorts, or leggings are ideal. Avoid clothing that is too tight or restrictive.

• Footwear: Wear supportive athletic shoes appropriate for the type of workout you'll be doing. Ensure they fit well and provide adequate cushioning and stability.

• Accessories: Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated and a towel to wipe off sweat. If you have long hair, tie it back to keep it out of your face.

 

Remember, the right attire can make a big difference in your comfort and performance during your session. If you have any specific questions or need more personalised advice, feel free to ask us.

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Are shower facilities available?

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Currently, we do not have shower facilities available at the personal training studio. However, we do provide access to a toilet and a hand wash basin for your convenience. We recommend bringing a towel and any personal hygiene products you might need for freshening up after your session.

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Is there parking available?

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Yes, there is on-site parking available, free of charge, at our personal training studio for your convenience. You can easily park your vehicle and focus on your training session without any parking worries.

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How do you pay?

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We accept both cash and bank transfer payments for personal training sessions. You can choose the payment method that is most convenient for you. For bank transfers, please contact us for our banking details and further instructions.

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Are you insured?
 

Yes, Craig is fully insured as a Personal Trainer with Insure4Sport. This coverage ensures that you can train with confidence, knowing that all necessary precautions have been taken to provide a safe and protected training environment.

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8. General - Kerry:

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Do you have parking facilities?

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​Yes, we do! Parking is available on the residential street where our treatment room is located. It’s free of charge. Please park with consideration for the local neighbours and take care not to park on the double yellow lines to avoid any parking penalties.

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How do you pay?

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We accept both cash and bank transfer payments for treatments. You can choose the payment method that is most convenient for you. For bank transfers, please contact us for our banking details and further instructions.

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Are you insured?

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Yes, Kerry is fully insured with Balen’s to offer all treatments.  She is also a proud member of the Sports Therapy Association.  Ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our clients is of the highest standards and our insurance and membership coverage provides protection for your peace of mind.

 

9. Sports & Remedial Massage:

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Can anyone book a sports massage?

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Yes, anyone can book a sports and remedial massage! Whether you're an athlete looking to enhance your performance and recovery or an office worker needing relief from sitting all day or even a tradesperson like a plumber or electrician experiencing muscle strain from physical labour, our sports and remedial massage services are available to everyone. Please contact us to schedule your appointment and discuss any specific needs or concerns you may have.

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Does sports and remedial massage hurt?

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Sports and remedial massage can sometimes cause discomfort, especially if you have areas of muscle tension or tightness. However, the level of discomfort varies greatly depending on your individual sensitivity and the techniques used during the treatment.

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Your therapist is trained to read non-verbal signs of discomfort and to back off the pressure if any of these signs are noted. Put simply, we are here to help you relieve tension, not to add to it. Anyone who tells you sports and remedial massages should be painful are incorrect. 

 

We strive to ensure your comfort throughout the session. We will communicate with you to adjust pressure levels according to your preferences and tolerance. It's normal to experience some soreness or tenderness after the treatment, but this typically subsides within a day or two, leaving you feeling more relaxed and mobile.

 

If you have any concerns or specific areas you'd like us to focus on during your treatment,, please let us know. Your comfort and wellbeing are our top priorities.

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What should I wear?

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For your sports or remedial massage session, wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the areas being treated. Here are some tips:

 

• Comfortable Attire: Wear loose-fitting or stretchy clothing that you can easily move in, such as athletic shorts or leggings and a comfortable top.

• Accessibility: It's helpful if the clothing allows the soft tissue therapist to access the areas needing treatment. For example, shorts are ideal if you're getting a lower body massage and a normal bra is suitable for upper body work.

• Privacy and Comfort: You will be properly draped during the session to ensure your privacy and comfort. Only the area being worked on will be exposed and your modesty will be respected at all times.

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Feel free to communicate any preferences or concerns about clothing with us before the session begins. Your comfort and relaxation are our priorities.

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Do you treat all age groups?

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Yes, we provide sports and remedial massage for clients of all age groups, from children to adults. It's important to note that for children under the age of 16, we require a chaperone to be present during the session. This ensures their safety and comfort throughout the treatment.

 

We are trained to adapt techniques and approaches based on the age and specific needs of each client, ensuring a safe and effective massage experience for everyone.

 

If you have any questions or concerns about soft tissue therapy for a particular age group, please feel free to contact us. We're here to provide personalised care and support for all our clients.

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Can you treat injuries?

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As a Level 4 sports and remedial soft tissue therapist, we are qualified to treat a wide range of injuries and musculoskeletal conditions. These may include muscle strains, tendonitis, postural issues and more. However, it's important to note that some injuries may require further medical attention or specialised treatment beyond what soft tissue therapy can provide.

 

During your initial consultation, we will assess your condition and discuss the most appropriate treatment plan. If your injury requires additional medical intervention or rehabilitation, we may recommend consulting with a healthcare professional such as a physiotherapist or doctor.

 

Our goal is to provide effective relief and support your recovery process while ensuring your safety and wellbeing at all times.

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What happens during a treatment?

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During your sports and remedial massage treatment, you can expect the following steps:

 

1. Initial Assessment: We will begin by discussing your medical history, current symptoms and any specific areas of concern. This helps to understand your needs and goals for the session.

 

2. Assessment and Treatment Plan: We will conduct a physical assessment to evaluate your posture, range of motion and areas of muscle tension or dysfunction. Based on this assessment, we will develop a personalised treatment plan to address your specific issues.

 

3. Massage Techniques: We will use a variety of massage techniques tailored to your condition and preferences. These may include deep tissue massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy and stretching techniques to alleviate muscle tension, improve circulation and promote relaxation.

 

4. Feedback and Adjustments: Throughout the session, we will communicate with you to ensure your comfort and adjust techniques as needed based on your feedback.

 

5. Post-treatment Recommendations: After the massage, we may provide you with advice on self-care techniques, exercises and lifestyle modifications to support your recovery and enhance the benefits of the treatment.

 

6. Follow-up: Depending on your condition, I will discuss the frequency and duration of follow-up treatments during our session.

 

Each treatment is tailored to your individual needs, aiming to alleviate pain, improve mobility and enhance overall well-being. If you have any questions or concerns before or during the session, please don't hesitate to ask.

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What is Dry Cupping and what are the benefits?

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Dry cupping is a therapeutic technique that involves placing special cups on your skin to create suction. This suction helps to lift the skin and underlying tissues, promoting increased blood flow, reducing muscle tension and enhancing the body’s natural healing processes.

 

Benefits of Dry Cupping:

 

• Relieves Muscle Tension: The suction helps to loosen tight muscles and fascia, providing relief from muscle stiffness and discomfort.

• Improves Blood Circulation: By drawing blood to the affected area, dry cupping promotes better circulation, which can aid in healing and recovery.

• Reduces Pain: The therapy can help alleviate pain from conditions such as back pain, neck pain and headaches.

• Enhances Mobility: Increased blood flow and reduced muscle tension can improve your range of motion and overall flexibility.

• Detoxification: The suction effect can help to draw out toxins and metabolic waste from your tissues, promoting detoxification.

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During a dry cupping session, you may feel a gentle pulling sensation as the cups are applied.  The cups are usually left in place for a few minutes to achieve the desired therapeutic effect.  This is typically not painful and many people find it relaxing. However, it is common for the skin to be marked with a bruise-like effect where the cups have been placed.  These marks are usually painless and fade within a few days.

 

If you're curious about how dry cupping can benefit you, feel free to ask us for more information or schedule a session to experience the benefits firsthand.

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What is Dry Needling and what are the benefits?

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Dry needling is a modern therapeutic technique that involves inserting very thin, sterile needles into specific points in the muscles. Unlike acupuncture, which is based on traditional Chinese medicine, dry needling is grounded in Western medicine principles and focuses on targeting trigger points and areas of muscle tightness.

 

Benefits of Dry Needling:

 

• Relieves Muscle Pain and Tension: By targeting trigger points, dry needling can effectively reduce muscle knots, alleviate pain and decrease muscle tension.

• Improves Mobility: Releasing tight muscles helps improve your range of motion and flexibility, which can be especially beneficial for athletes and those recovering from injuries.

• Promotes Healing: The insertion of needles stimulates blood flow and triggers the body's natural healing processes, aiding in faster recovery.

• Reduces Chronic Pain: For those suffering from chronic conditions like back pain, neck pain, or tendonitis, dry needling can provide significant relief.

• Enhances Athletic Performance: By addressing muscle imbalances and tension, dry needling can help optimize muscle function and enhance overall performance.

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During a dry needling session, you may feel a brief sensation as the needle is inserted, but this is typically minimal. The treatment is designed to be quick and effective, providing relief with minimal discomfort.

 

If you’re curious about how dry needling can help you, feel free to reach out for more information or to schedule a session. Experience the benefits of this innovative therapy first hand and take a step towards better muscle health and overall well-being.

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What is Red Light Therapy and what are the benefits?

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Red light therapy is a cutting-edge treatment that uses low-level red wavelengths of light to penetrate the skin and stimulate various healing processes in the body. When used in conjunction with soft tissue therapy, it can significantly enhance the overall benefits and effectiveness of your treatment.

 

Benefits of Red Light Therapy:

 

• Accelerates Healing: Red light therapy boosts cellular energy production, promoting faster healing of muscles and tissues.

• Reduces Inflammation: The light wavelengths help decrease inflammation, which can relieve pain and enhance recovery from injuries.

• Enhances Muscle Recovery: By improving blood circulation and reducing muscle soreness, red light therapy supports quicker recovery after intense workouts or physical activities.

• Improves Skin Health: The therapy stimulates collagen production, which can improve skin texture, reduce wrinkles and help heal scars or other skin issues.

• Boosts Overall Well-being: Many users report feeling more relaxed and rejuvenated after treatments, as the therapy can also positively impact mood and energy levels.

 

During a session, the red light is applied to specific areas of your body, often combined with targeted soft tissue therapy techniques. This combination ensures that you receive the maximum therapeutic benefits, addressing both muscle health and overall well-being.

 

If you're interested in learning more about how red light therapy can enhance your recovery, performance and/or wellbeing, or if you’d like to experience it as part of your massage treatment, please contact us to schedule an appointment.

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What is Kinesiology Taping and what are the benefits?

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Kinesiology taping is a therapeutic technique that involves applying a special, stretchy tape to the skin. This tape is designed to support muscles and joints without restricting your movement, making it an excellent tool for both injury prevention, recovery and lymphatic drainage.

 

Benefits of Kinesiology Taping:

 

• Supports Muscles and Joints: The tape provides stability and support to muscles and joints, helping to prevent injuries during physical activity.

• Reduces Pain: Kinesiology tape can alleviate pain by lifting the skin slightly, which reduces pressure and promotes better blood flow to the affected area.

• Enhances Performance: By supporting key muscle groups, the tape can help improve your performance and endurance during sports and exercise.

• Decreases Swelling and Inflammation: The tape helps to reduce swelling by promoting lymphatic drainage and improving circulation.

• Improves Recovery: Kinesiology taping can speed up recovery from injuries by providing continuous support and encouraging natural healing processes.

 

During a session, the tape is applied to specific areas of your body based on your needs and the goals of your treatment. It's comfortable to wear and can stay on for several days, providing ongoing support and relief.

 

If you're interested in learning more about how kinesiology taping can benefit you, or if you’d like to incorporate it into your treatment plan, please contact us to schedule an appointment.

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What will I feel like after treatment?

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After your treatment, you may experience a range of sensations, all of which are normal and part of the healing process. Here's what you can typically expect:

 

• Immediate Relief: Many people feel an immediate sense of relief and relaxation as muscle tension is released and pain is reduced.

• Soreness: It's common to feel some mild soreness or tenderness in the treated areas, similar to what you might feel after a good workout. This usually subsides within a day or two.

• Increased Mobility: You may notice improved flexibility and range of motion, making it easier to move without discomfort.

• Enhanced Circulation: Improved blood flow can leave you feeling energised and revitalised.

• Relaxation: Many clients feel deeply relaxed and less stressed, as the treatment helps to calm the nervous system.

 

It's important to stay hydrated and give your body time to rest and recover after treatment. If you have any specific concerns or unusual symptoms, don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to support your recovery and ensure you get the most out of your treatment.

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Can I exercise after treatment?

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We recommend sticking to light exercise to maximize the benefits of your session. Here’s what we suggest:

 

• Light Activity: Gentle activities like walking, light stretching, or yoga can help you maintain the benefits of the treatment by promoting circulation and flexibility.

• Avoid Intense Workouts: For the first 24-48 hours after treatment, it's best to avoid intense workouts or heavy lifting. Your muscles and tissues need time to recover and fully benefit from the therapy.

• Hydration and Rest: Stay well-hydrated and ensure you get plenty of rest to support your body's healing process and enhance the effects of the treatment.

• Follow Your Therapist’s Advice: Depending on your specific treatment and condition, we may provide personalised recommendations for post-treatment activity.

 

If you have any concerns or questions about your exercise routine after treatment, please feel free to ask. We're here to help you make the most of your recovery and achieve your fitness goals safely.

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What do you mean by contra-indications?

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Contraindications in soft tissue therapy refer to specific conditions or situations where certain treatments might not be safe or suitable. These are important to consider to ensure that therapy does not cause harm or worsen any existing conditions.

 

Common Contraindications Include:

 

• Acute Injuries: Conditions like recent fractures, severe sprains, or strains may require time to heal before soft tissue therapy can be safely applied.

• Infections: Skin infections, open wounds, or contagious illnesses can be aggravated by massage or therapy.

• Chronic Conditions: Certain chronic health issues, such as uncontrolled high blood pressure, deep vein thrombosis, or severe osteoporosis, may require special care or be unsuitable for certain types of treatment.

• Medical Treatments: If you're undergoing treatments like chemotherapy or have had recent surgery, it's crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before receiving soft tissue therapy.

 

Before starting any treatment, we perform a thorough assessment and review your medical history to identify any contraindications. This helps us tailor the therapy to your specific needs and ensure your safety and well-being.

 

If you have any questions or concerns about whether soft tissue therapy is right for you, please don't hesitate to ask. We're here to provide safe and effective treatments tailored to your individual needs.

 

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