Structural Repatterning FAQ

Structural Repatterning

Anna and Shiatsu Massage Therapy

These are a few of the questions I have been asked by our clients or prospective clients. If I have not answered your question please e-mail me and I will respond as soon as possible.

Do you use oil?

Not usually; I only use oil in rare cases when other techniques don't work, or if a client requests it. Since I mostly use pressure-based methods, oil tends to hinder the treatment's effectiveness.

Do clients remove their clothes?

Most of my clients wear just their underwear. Most of my techniques can be applied through clothing, although it lessens sensitivity. If a client is more comfortable wearing clothes, that is fine.

Why is this different from massage?

Massage or other forms of bodywork soften the muscles, but they don't change the patterns of movement which caused the tight muscles. Structural Repatterning teaches the client's body what it is doing wrong and how to move without pain.

Is this like physical therapy?

Physical therapy teaches people how to strengthen their muscles through specific exercises. If the problem is not weakness but is instead an ingrained habit, it is necessary to unlearn the bad habit before introducing and strengthening a good habit. Structural Repatterning is like “pre-physical therapy.” Many of my clients came to me after trying physical therapy first, and found that Structural Repatterning was more effective than physical therapy.

How many treatments does it take?

Every person's body is different, some people respond quickly and easily to Structural Repatterning, others more slowly. I recommend that people wait several days to a week after a treatment, after which I consult with them over the phone to see how they are feeling. A frequency schedule for treatments can be determined at that time.

Are the changes permanent?

Somewhat. Since most pain is caused by patterns of use, going back to what you did to cause the problem will often re-aggravate it. It is more difficult to change patterns of everyday movements, such your habitual style of standing, sitting, walking or working, if these have contributed to the problem. Other problems or patterns, such as those caused by accidents, falls and other acute injuries, may be permanently fixed.

Does this help injuries?

If there is not something broken, torn, cracked, dislocated, or inflamed, then yes. Structural Repatterning does not reverse arthritis, but it will help get the pressure off the damaged joint so it feels better. It is an excellent method for treating impingements, referred pain that is not caused by what hurts, compaction, tension, spasms, and chronic pain. If there is something wrong that could be serious, see a doctor and be evaluated. This is not a replacement for qualified medical care.

Should I stop seeing my chiropractor if I'm seeing you?

No, Structural Repatterning is not a replacement for chiropractic care. I work on releasing muscle tension that keeps joints from moving. If the joints need an adjustment, go to a chiropractor. Structural Repatterning is an excellent therapy to combine with chiropractic care to change habits and keep moving well. Many of my clients find that they need less frequent chiropractor visits when they see me, but they also come to see me less as they get better, too.

Is this treatment covered by insurance?

Not usually. If there is an open medical file because of injuries from an auto accident, I can bill the car insurance carrier if I have a referral from a doctor and a prescription for treatments. Standard medical insurance does not cover massage or Structural Repatterning.