Session Length:
During your session, draping with sheets is available, although this can limit some techniques. For optimal comfort and mobility, please avoid yoga pants, jeans, or tightbrings and bring alternatives to traditional and tight-fitting attire such as:
Every body is different, and no two sessions at Painless Stride look exactly the same. While some parts of your session may feel familiar if you’ve had massage before, much of my work is more dynamic and interactive.
That variety is intentional. It helps me meet your body where it is, work with your nervous system, and choose the approach that best supports lasting change.
This is not always a “stay still on the table” style of bodywork. Depending on what we’re working on, you might:
This is especially common when we are addressing posture, gait, chronic pain patterns, or areas where the body needs a new movement strategy, not just a release.
Some techniques work best in specific positions, but your comfort and safety come first. If a position does not work for your body, we adapt. I can perform most techniques in alternate positions when needed, including seated or side-lying work.
We can also adjust with bolsters or other support to help you feel stable and comfortable.
None of these techniques are meant to be painful. You may feel intensity at times, especially in tight or sensitive areas, but there is a clear difference between productive sensation and pain.
A common experience is a “hurts so good” feeling. This can happen when a restricted area begins to soften, circulation improves, or the nervous system allows a guarded muscle to let go. Even then, the sensation should feel safe, tolerable, and controlled.
Pain is different. Pain can feel sharp, alarming, or protective. If anything feels like that, we back off and adjust right away. Your feedback guides the session, and you are always in charge of the pace.
Most of my work is gentle, especially when working with the nervous system, visceral restrictions, lymphatic flow, or neural and meningeal tissues. These systems often respond best to subtle input, not force.
That said, when appropriate and with your consent, I can also work more deeply. In some cases, deeper pressure helps address stubborn adhesions, dense musculature, or long-standing tension patterns. If deeper work is useful, we approach it gradually and stay within a range your body can integrate.
You may experience a blend of approaches during one session, including structural work, neuromuscular techniques, corrective movement, or gentle system-based therapies.
The goal is never to “do everything.” The goal is to use the right tool at the right time, based on what your body is showing us that day.
If you ever feel unsure, uncomfortable, or you simply want to understand what’s happening, please tell me. The best sessions are collaborative. When you feel safe and informed, your body can change more effectively.
I authorize the clinic and its associated health professionals to collect my personal and medical information as documented above. In addition, I authorize the clinic and its associated health professionals to communicate with my family doctor and/or referring doctor as deemed necessary for my beneficial treatment. I also understand that my personal and medical information is confidential and will only be disclosed to third parties with my permission.
Our work is firm but respectful. You’re always in control, and we adjust pressure to your comfort level while working toward lasting relief.
It depends on your goals. Some clients feel better after 1–3 sessions; others benefit from a structured 10-series or ongoing care.
You may feel lighter, more aligned, or temporarily sore. The overall goal is change, little by little. We’ll provide guidance on hydration, movement, and integration between sessions.