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Author Topic: Question regarding massages.  (Read 6991 times)

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Offline aupointillimite

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Question regarding massages.
« on: March 30, 2007, 11:12:47 am »
I've never gotten one and I would like to get one next week.

The problem is that I have no clue what to ask for.

I want to get one because I have scoliosis which pretty much means I'm in some sort of pain most of the time.  It's usually not that bad, but it's the nearly debilitating and random muscle spasms that have been driving me somewhat insane lately... yes, I've been to a doctor (more than one, in fact) and was told, essentially, that I had to live with it.

Brilliant.

So, where modern medicine has failed me (they can tell you exactly how messed up you are but can't do shit about it), I'm thinking about alternative treatments.

Any advice would be most appreciated.
Your tastebuds can't repel flavor of this magnitude!

Offline Dachshund

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Re: Question regarding massages.
« Reply #1 on: March 30, 2007, 11:26:52 am »
From this day forward whenever I think of you I will be reminded of Diane Keaton's character in Looking for Mr. Goodbar...a must see movie for every homo with scoliosis.

Offline GSOgymrat

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Re: Question regarding massages.
« Reply #2 on: March 30, 2007, 11:59:26 am »
I would recommend starting with a Swedish massage. It is the most common type and generally the most pleasurable. Some massage techniques, such as deep tissue, are uncomfortable. Make sure the massage therapist knows about your scoliosis and communicate what doesn't feel good when you are getting the massage. I've been getting a massage every 2-3 weeks since I have been training hard and I love it.

Offline Basquo

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Re: Question regarding massages.
« Reply #3 on: March 30, 2007, 12:33:08 pm »
Ask for a "happy ending"!

Offline Val

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Re: Question regarding massages.
« Reply #4 on: March 30, 2007, 12:41:36 pm »
We have a specialist on the subject in these forums, lil Benj!  He'll chime in, I hope.

Val
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Offline budndallastx

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Re: Question regarding massages.
« Reply #5 on: March 30, 2007, 01:17:12 pm »
1.  Get a cute masseur
2.  A swedish massage is best
3.  Ask for a happy ending with release !
4.  Tell us all about it.
Meds since: 11/20/2006
Sustiva / Truvada
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9/8/2008 VL:<48 CD4 573 (30%)
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9/2007   VL: <50  CD4 465 (27%)
6/2007   VL: <50   CD4 443 (26%)
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12/2006 - VL: <50   CD4: 384 (25%)
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Offline Christine

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Re: Question regarding massages.
« Reply #6 on: March 30, 2007, 01:56:35 pm »
I receive Guasha, it is a form of acupuncture which does not use needles, but uses pressure along the meridians. Here is a link: http://www.guasha.com/

I use it for stress, nausea, and fatigue. I don't know if it could help with your back, but it might be worth it to call a acupuncturist.

If you go to a acupuncturist, make sure they are licenced or registered in your state (state laws vary on qualifications). Also, ask about their experience, and education. A four year degree in TCM (traditional chinese medicine) is best.

The guasha feels similar to a massage.

Also, have you ever tried yoga. Very gentle hatha yoga or kundalini yoga could help. Kundalini focuses on stretching the spine, releasing blocked chakras (which align up the spine) and breath work.

I think using holistic methods is an excellent idea. Just make sure they are qualified, and have experience.

Christine
Poz since '93. Currently on Procrit, Azithromax, Pentamidine, Valcyte, Levothyroxine, Zoloft, Epzicom, Prezista, Viread, Norvir, and GS-9137 study drug. As needed: Trazodone, Atavan, Diflucan, Zofran, Hydrocodone, Octreotide

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Offline jkinatl2

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Re: Question regarding massages.
« Reply #7 on: March 30, 2007, 02:08:15 pm »
A note of caution. If you are going to be releasing blocked chakras, put a towel down first.

I might be thinking of anal glands. Whatever, sound advice.
"Many people, especially in the gay community, turn to oral sex as a safer alternative in the age of AIDS. And with HIV rates rising, people need to remember that oral sex is safer sex. It's a reasonable alternative."

-Kimberly Page-Shafer, PhD, MPH

Welcome Thread

Offline Andy Velez

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Re: Question regarding massages.
« Reply #8 on: March 30, 2007, 02:36:14 pm »
It's very good that you're checking out some alternative forms of treatment. Back pain is awful to live with. Is your scoliosis condition one in which your back is continuing to curve, and is it inward or outward? I'm always cautious about treatment of the spine.    Try and get a referral from someone familiar with the skill of the person you are going to.

Personally I would recommend checking out acupuncture first. Some acupunctarists are also trained masseurs.

Keep us posted on how you do.

Cheers,

Andy Velez

Offline jkinatl2

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Re: Question regarding massages.
« Reply #9 on: March 30, 2007, 03:05:51 pm »
Hey Benj, maybe your cool new job's insurance/benefits will cover massages? Worth checking into :)
"Many people, especially in the gay community, turn to oral sex as a safer alternative in the age of AIDS. And with HIV rates rising, people need to remember that oral sex is safer sex. It's a reasonable alternative."

-Kimberly Page-Shafer, PhD, MPH

Welcome Thread

Offline Moffie65

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Re: Question regarding massages.
« Reply #10 on: March 30, 2007, 03:16:47 pm »
Personally, I would wait until after your shot, and your other symptoms have cleared up.  Your "other" problem will get in the way of any masage therapy and also probably accupuncture.  I would also be in the line for accupuncture, as it sometimes has a far more lasting effect on chronic pain.  Also, it can sometimes clear up issues of discomfort, but I have no idea about scoliosis.

Love,
The Bible contains 6 admonishments to homosexuals,
and 362 to heterosexuals.
This doesn't mean that God doesn't love heterosexuals,
It's just that they need more supervision.
Lynn Lavne

Offline MSPspud

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Re: Question regarding massages.
« Reply #11 on: March 30, 2007, 03:20:16 pm »
Well if you're ever in Minneapolis I give some pretty killer massages.  Whenever I get a professional one at the Aveda Institute, it amazes me at how crappy they are.  Professional does not always equal good.    

Offline BriGuyNY,NY

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Re: Question regarding massages.
« Reply #12 on: March 30, 2007, 06:30:03 pm »
I would agree with the swedish to start.  There are several others, shiatsu, medical. etc.  I get a Thai yoga just about every 2 weeks.  Just be sure the practictioner is LICENSED by your state.  Lots of faux "masseurs" out there.  They're usually the "happy ending" types.  Most can be found on Craigslist!!  Accupuncture is also a great alternative.  I go weekly.  Great benefits including increased energy levels.  Wish you all the best
The strongest warrior, is the one who conquers himself....Aztec warrior

Dripping water hollows out a stone...Ovid

Offline fearless

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Re: Question regarding massages.
« Reply #13 on: March 30, 2007, 06:45:28 pm »
I don't know much about massages, Benj. I have scoliosis and a few other back problems. The chiro I was seeing urged me to get into yoga. Best thing I ever did. Not only has it relieved my back pain, but now I can put my ankles in places I never thought possible  ;D
Be forgiving, be grateful, be optimistic

Offline BriGuyNY,NY

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Re: Question regarding massages.
« Reply #14 on: March 30, 2007, 10:41:03 pm »
Just a follow-up.  If the practioner doesn't know what he/she is doing, it can result in serious damage, which is why I said, go to a LICENSED practioner. 
The strongest warrior, is the one who conquers himself....Aztec warrior

Dripping water hollows out a stone...Ovid

Offline bocker3

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Re: Question regarding massages.
« Reply #15 on: March 30, 2007, 11:15:49 pm »
Hey Benj,

I know a great massage therapist on Cary St.  I've just started with him, but have monthly appts set up through the fall.  He's fairly reasonable, price wise and a real nice guy.

PM me, if interested, and I can give you his name and number.

Mike

Offline aupointillimite

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Re: Question regarding massages.
« Reply #16 on: March 30, 2007, 11:21:42 pm »
Hey Benj,

I know a great massage therapist on Cary St.  I've just started with him, but have monthly appts set up through the fall.  He's fairly reasonable, price wise and a real nice guy.

PM me, if interested, and I can give you his name and number.

Mike

Is it the place in Carytown?

The one near the Compleat Gourmet on Cary St. itself?

I know exactly where you're talking about if that's it... I used to live in the Museum District and stumbled past it on my home from Babe's about three times a week.   ;)
Your tastebuds can't repel flavor of this magnitude!

Offline jkinatl2

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Re: Question regarding massages.
« Reply #17 on: March 30, 2007, 11:33:26 pm »
I volunteer to give Benj a massage in Atlanta. The ending might not be happy for him, but it's far from optional :)

Creepily
Jonathan
"Many people, especially in the gay community, turn to oral sex as a safer alternative in the age of AIDS. And with HIV rates rising, people need to remember that oral sex is safer sex. It's a reasonable alternative."

-Kimberly Page-Shafer, PhD, MPH

Welcome Thread

Offline dtwpuck

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Re: Question regarding massages.
« Reply #18 on: March 30, 2007, 11:37:00 pm »
Benj... there was a time when I was convinced I wanted to be a massage therapist.  I went through the training, got the certificate etc.   Anyway, my professional life took a different turn, but it is still something i am very passionate about.

You should just be honest with your therapist.  Tell him (or her)  where you hurt.   Give him feedback through the process.   Remember to relax and just go limp.  If you fall asleep, then great.  You might find that at times, getting the tough spots will hurt, but never so much that you can't stand it.  And, you might find that your insurance does cover the massage ( a legit one ). 

Have fun.  Let us know how it goes.





Floating through the void in the caress of two giant pink lobsters named Esmerelda and Keith.

Offline aupointillimite

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Re: Question regarding massages.
« Reply #19 on: March 30, 2007, 11:38:01 pm »
I volunteer to give Benj a massage in Atlanta. The ending might not be happy for him, but it's far from optional :)

Creepily
Jonathan

That's not too creepy.

Allow me.  *ahem*

Jonathan.

Melia loves you, and Tim loves you, and Buckyball loves you... but I love you most of all.

Remember that forever.
Your tastebuds can't repel flavor of this magnitude!

Offline sweetasmeli

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Re: Question regarding massages.
« Reply #20 on: March 31, 2007, 03:29:27 am »
Melia loves you, and Tim loves you, and Buckyball loves you... but I love you most of all.

Benj sweetie, honeypie, I beg to differ. And I will fight you. :P

Melia the Mighty
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The difference between cats and dogs is that dogs come when called, whereas cats take a message and get back to you.

Yeia kai hara (health and happiness) to everyone!

Offline bocker3

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Re: Question regarding massages.
« Reply #21 on: March 31, 2007, 09:18:22 am »
Is it the place in Carytown?

The one near the Compleat Gourmet on Cary St. itself?

I know exactly where you're talking about if that's it... I used to live in the Museum District and stumbled past it on my home from Babe's about three times a week.   ;)

It's actually in the plaza where the Can Can Brasserie is located (I'm sure you know where that is!).  It's a little non-descipt office in the corner of the plaza on the second floor.

m

Offline mrtallguy

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Re: Question regarding massages.
« Reply #22 on: March 31, 2007, 10:03:33 am »
Hey Benj...
Speaking of Swedish....I posess 100% Swedish blood....and great hands (so I am told) for massage....:)
and I'll be in Richmond at the end of April....
back in Detroit by the 1st of May....
so not a long term solution!  :(
but short term anything is better than nuthin at all! :)

Craig
I AM DETERMINED TO SEE THINGS DIFFERENTLY!
--ACIM

Offline koi1

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Re: Question regarding massages.
« Reply #23 on: March 31, 2007, 11:36:59 am »
I heard the best massage where they sooth you with words like

"me love you long time." :D
diagnosed on 11/20/06 viral load 23,000  cd4 97    8%
01/04/07 six weeks after diagnosis vl 53,000 cd4 cd4 70    6%
Began sustiva truvada 01/04/07
newest labs  drawn on 01/15/07  vl 1,100    cd4 119    7%
Drawn 02/10/07
cd4=160 viral load= 131 percentage= 8%
New labs 3/10/07 (two months on sustiva truvada
cd4 count 292  percentage 14 viral load undetectable

Offline Miss Philicia

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Re: Question regarding massages.
« Reply #24 on: March 31, 2007, 11:39:46 am »
Massage!!!???  May I heartily recommend a facial as well as a good manicure and pedicure at the same time?  There's really nothing like a spa day IMHO.
"I’ve slept with enough men to know that I’m not gay"

Offline aupointillimite

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Re: Question regarding massages.
« Reply #25 on: March 31, 2007, 03:24:26 pm »
It's actually in the plaza where the Can Can Brasserie is located (I'm sure you know where that is!).  It's a little non-descipt office in the corner of the plaza on the second floor.

m

Yup!  My roommate works at Can Can (weird, I know)... but I refuse to set foot in there.  That place scares me. 

I know exactly where you're talking about.

I wasn't able to find any info on them via teh Internets.  If you could send me their info, I'd greatly appreciate it!
Your tastebuds can't repel flavor of this magnitude!

Offline bocker3

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Re: Question regarding massages.
« Reply #26 on: March 31, 2007, 06:03:44 pm »
I sent you a PM with the info.  I don't like  the idea of posting someone's name, etc. without their permission.  Hope it works out for you -- no happy endings with him, though!

As for the Can Can -- you should try it.  I LOVE their steak and frites!   ;D

Mike

Offline aupointillimite

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Re: Question regarding massages.
« Reply #27 on: March 31, 2007, 06:32:20 pm »
I sent you a PM with the info.  I don't like  the idea of posting someone's name, etc. without their permission.  Hope it works out for you -- no happy endings with him, though!

As for the Can Can -- you should try it.  I LOVE their steak and frites!   ;D

Mike

Thank you for the info!

I don't go to Can Can because it, like much of Carytown, is a little too... um... well, let's go with bourgeois and overpriced.  Their food is good, nothing spectacular... I've had it when Liz brings it home... but I'll be damned if I pay that much for it. 
Your tastebuds can't repel flavor of this magnitude!

 


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