COVID - Conscious Massage Practice Protocols
What the Research Says
When I felt ready to begin seeing clients again two years into the pandemic, I made the decision to run a COVID-conscious massage practice. This meant that I looked to science and some really smart people to help guide me in creating a safe space for myself and my massage clients, many of whom are immune-compromised.
COVID and the decision-making about activities that may put us at increased risk of contracting it can feel overwhelming at times, especially for those with compromised immune systems. For me, working in a small, enclosed space where I see clients in close proximity for 30 minutes or longer at a time provides zero opportunity to socially distance. And many of those clients are immunocompromised or have complex health issues or are older or cannot be vaccinated. Having clear guidelines can help ease some of the angst-ridden decision-making. For this I studied multiple sources (Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards, Association of Bodyworkers and Massage Professionals, Healwell, as well as state regulations), and read articles by epidemiologists to create guidelines.
In the process, what I learned is that reducing our risk primarily comes down to the quality of the air we breathe. And the way we achieve that is through cleaning the air with HEPA air-filtration and wearing well-fitting masks. Studies show that works.
The recommended best practices helped me to create guidelines to provide a safe experience for every client and myself. With time-earned scientific understanding of the virus, some protocols have been dropped, like therapist-required gloves and goggle wearing. The important ones remain.
What I Am Doing
I am following all recommended COVID-19 precautions for every session. These include:
A HEPA air filtration system is running in the treatment room throughout and between sessions.
Table, face cradle, bolsters, and all high touch surfaces are cleaned and sanitized between every client with EPA-registered disinfectants.
Strict hand hygiene is followed throughout the day, including before and after every session.
Linens are single-use for every client, stored in closed bins after use and laundered in hot water.
I have been fully vaccinated and boosted for COVID.
What You Can Do
Wear a clean, well-fitting mask inside the studio for the entirety of your session. I will be doing the same. If you arrive without a mask, I will happily provide one for you. If you have difficulty while lying face down with the face cradle and wearing a mask, let me know and we can use an alternative method for your comfort and safety.
If you feel ill on the day of your session, please contact me as soon as possible to cancel your appointment. You will not be charged a cancellation fee if you are canceling due to illness.
If you had COVID-19, please wait at least 10 days after symptoms have resolved to schedule a session. In asymptomatic cases, please wait at least 10 days after a positive test to schedule.
Why These Protocols are In Place
COVID is airborne and properly fitting, quality masks and good HEPA air filtration systems greatly reduce risk against COVID. And as a bonus, they also reduce risk of flu, RSV, and colds, amongst many other things that are all wonderful to avoid. Another reason? We need to take care of each other.
Going Forward
Will these protocols change in the future? Perhaps. I will continue to watch state infection and hospitalization rates and adjust these policies accordingly.
