FAQs


Review the Frequently Asked Questions below for answers about Corrective Exercise and Myofascial Release, and how they can work together to support your long-term musculoskeletal health. Also, find out what to expect when working with me.

What’s the difference between Myofascial Release and Corrective Exercise Sessions?

  • Myofascial Release is assisted stretching using compression techniques that release tension in your body’s muscle and connective tissue (fascia) to reduce pain, improve mobility, and promote relaxation. Sessions are quiet, focused, and highly personalized.
  • Corrective Exercise is a personalized movement-based program to restore proper muscle activation, mobility, and alignment. It helps address postural imbalances, chronic pain, and movement quality. You will receive a short series of exercises to do at home that help train your body to move differently.

They work beautifully together — MFR helps release restrictions, while Corrective Exercise retrains your body.

Short version: MFR = You receive. CE = You work.

Who are these services for?
Anyone dealing with:

  • Pain, stiffness, or recurring injuries
  • Poor posture or movement habits
  • Desk-related discomfort
  • Limited range of motion
  • Fitness plateaus or recovery needs

You don’t need to be an athlete or in pain to benefit — just ready to move and feel better.

How do I know which one I need?
If you’re not sure, ask me! Generally, Myofascial Release sessions help the body recover and reset without much thinking on your part. If your mind is ready to take on a program for structural change requiring a short workout 3+ days a week, Corrective Exercise is for you!


How do I prepare for my Session

How long are the sessions?
Sessions are 60 minutes. Enough time to relax and reset (and retain if you are learning exercises). Extended sessions can be counter productive. If you feel like you needed more time, it’s often an indication that another session in a couple days would be beneficial.

What should I wear or bring?
Wear comfortable, stretchy clothing — like what you’d wear to yoga or the gym. Be well hydrated when you arrive, eat a snack if you need to and bring water for after your session.

What to Expect in a Myofascial Release Session

What happens during a Myofascial Release session?
I use mat and chair-based techniques, including assisted stretching, trigger point therapy maps and assessments to address the source of tension in your muscle and fascial tissue. We will begin with a short conversation about your recent activities and areas of discomfort, decide on a focused or general recovery session and begin our mat and chair work to release tension in your body’s muscle and connective tissue. You will leave feeling lighter with improved posture.

How is it different from massage?
Unlike traditional massage, Myofascial Release focuses on sustained compression and coached movement to release tension in the fascia, not just the muscles. It’s more intentional, and targets long-term restrictions rather than surface-level tension.

What does it feel like when fascia releases?
You might feel warmth, tingling, deep relaxation, or a sensation of “melting” tension. Some people feel emotional releases as well, which is completely normal.

How will I feel afterward?
You may feel relaxed, lighter, or a little sore — similar to after a good stretch or workout. Drink water, move gently, and allow your body to integrate the changes.

How often do I need a session?

ACUTE PAIN
To address a specific problem area, 2-3 sessions within 2 weeks.

PERFORMANCE
If you are an athlete focused on performance and injury prevention, 2-4 sessions per month.

ACTIVE
If your work is active and repetitive, 2-4 sessions per month.

STUCK
If you work in a chair and want to feel great and stay mobile, 2 sessions per month.

QUICK
If you are short on time, 1 session per month.

What to Expect in a Corrective Exercise Session

What happens during a Corrective Exercise Postural Survey Assessment?
The Postural Survey Assessment is such a gem of personalized information. We start with a short conversation about your work and daily life, activities and sports you participate in, your stress level both mentally and physically — this paints a picture of habit patterns that form common postural deviations.

From there we look at five key areas of the body: Feet and Ankles, Knees, Lower Back and Hip area, Mid Back and Shoulder area, Neck and Head. Moving through each key area we will discuss structures of the body that deviate from proper alignment and you will receive instruction on how to position yourself and find your proper alignment.

We will discuss what your unique Corrective Exercise Program might look like and talk about your home set-up, including when and how much time you can reasonably set aside for your at-home work.

You will receive a 5-page Postural Survey Assessment via email that you can print out or view on your smartphone, tablet or computer. The report documents all of the information from our assessment session with tips and suggestions for your future sessions.

What are common postural deviations?
• Overpronation
• Lack of Dorsiflexion
• Valgus Knee Displacement
• Patella Tracking Problems
• Anterior Pelvic Tilt
• Excessive Lumbar Lordosis
• Excessive Thoracic Kyphosis
• Protracted Shoulder Girdle
• Elevated Scapula
• Internally Rotated Arms
• Excessive Cervical Lordosis
• Forward Head Posture

What happens during a Corrective Exercise session?
I guide you through a customized set of exercises targeting mobility, muscle activation and stability. We take photos of you performing each exercise and pair it with instructions (in your own words) for your at-home sessions.

Do I need equipment at home?
For Corrective Exercise: Not much! A foam roller, sturdy chair, lacrosse ball, Theracane, and exercise mat are helpful. I can work with what you already have or recommend affordable tools.

What if I don’t have much space at home?
That’s okay! I can create a program that works in a small space — even just a yoga mat’s worth of room.

Results & Progress

How many Myofascial Release sessions will I need?
It depends on the issue. For an acute issue (like difficulty turning your head), a series of sessions in a short period of time may be enough. For chronic recurring pain or long-term restrictions, a maintenance plan is most effective.

When will I feel results?
Many clients feel changes after their first or second session—like better posture, easier movement, or less tension. Long-term improvement comes from consistency, and most programs show noticeable results within 4–6 weeks.

When do I “finish” a Corrective Exercise program?
You’re done when you are satisfied that movement patterns have improved, symptoms are reduced or gone, and you feel confident continuing on your own or with maintenance support.

What if I’m too busy to commit to a Corrective Exercise Program?
I’ll design a program that fits your life. Even 15–20 minutes a day can create real change if you’re consistent.

Can I still do other workouts?
Yes! Both services are designed to support your existing fitness, yoga, gym, or movement practice. We’ll work with your routine and find ways to slip some of your corrective exercises into your regular workouts.

Online Sessions

How do online sessions work?
For Corrective Exercise, we meet using your computer browser (like Chrome or Safari) with a link I provide via Zoho Meeting. I assess your movement, guide your exercises, and provide feedback. You’ll need a device with a camera, a bit of open space, and optionally some basic tools (a foam roller, sturdy chair, lacrosse ball, Theracane, exercise mat).

Laptops work best because of screen size, tablets with a stand are great, a smartphone with a stand can work but is harder for you to see my visual cues.

Is online Corrective Exercise effective?
Absolutely. Many clients prefer online sessions for convenience, and with good camera placement and coaching, the results are just as powerful as in-person.

Can Myofascial Release be done virtually?
No. MFR is a hands-on, in-person service. However, online Corrective Exercise programs often begin with self-myofascial release exercises — I guide you through learning self-myofascial release techniques during an online corrective session — so this may be a great choice for you.

Can I switch between online and in-person?
Yes! You’re welcome to mix formats based on your needs, location, or schedule.

Pain, Injuries & Medical Concerns

What if I have an injury or medical condition?
Both services are safe and adaptable. I’ll inquire about your health history and collaborate with your healthcare team, if needed. Safety comes first. If your body is fighting an illness, myofascial release is not recommended until you are feeling better.

Is Myofascial Release painful?
It’s not meant to be. You may feel deep stretching or intensity, but not sharp pain. We work slowly, with lots of breathwork, staying within your comfort zone.

I’ve done stretching or foam rolling before—how is this different?
Professional Myofascial Release practitioners can anchor tissue deeper than self-performed routines. Calves, hamstrings and pecs are some areas that practitioners can address more effectively.

Can I do both services together in one session?
Yes! Combined sessions are highly effective—release tension with MFR, then re-educate your movement with Corrective Exercise. These sessions are popular and powerful, especially for ongoing training.

I recommend at least a series of four Corrective Exercise sessions before using combined sessions. This gives you a solid understanding for what self-myofascial release can do for you vs. in-person MFR Sessions.

Self-Care & Between Sessions

Do you give exercises or homework?
Yes—if you’re open to it. For MFR, I can guide you in gentle self-release techniques to maintain progress. For corrective work, you’ll receive simple, effective home routines.

Can I overdo self-myofascial release at home?
Yes. Too much pressure or frequency can aggravate tissue. I’ll teach you how to use these tools safely and effectively.

Do I use ice if I’m uncomfortable after our session?
Current information suggests that ice can inhibit the body’s ability to clear inflammation. Heat can improve blood flow to areas of discomfort, assisting your body’s natural processes. I often suggest using heated rice pads and warm baths with magnesium salts. Consider relaxing after our session instead of hitting a hard workout or returning to a stressful situation at work. This is an informed opinion and you should listen to your intuition and medical practitioners about what is best for you.

Scheduling, Pricing & Policies

How do I schedule an appointment?
For your first appointment you can contact me by submitting the form on the Contact page. Once we have been introduced, you can text or email directly to find a time that works. If someone has referred you and given you my number feel free to text or call.

How much does it cost?
Pricing varies by service and package. I offer single sessions, multi-session packages, and hybrid options for established clients. Review the sessions pages for current pricing:

Myofascial Release Sessions
Corrective Exercise Sessions

Do you offer packages or memberships?
Yes! Package discounts are available for returning clients.

Do you accept gratuity?
Yes. This comes up sometimes, so I’m including it here. Gratuity is accepted, but not if it keeps you from coming back. It’s never expected, and always appreciated. It is ok not to tip if it feels like a stretch.

I personally tip practitioners who use their bodies to help mine feel better. A little extra (if not a full 20%) is a way to appreciate the energy and care they give. Most practitioners try to keep rates reasonable, while asking enough to sustain their practice. A bit more can help us get care for our own bodies, too.

Corrective Exercise is priced at a rate that compensates my time, no need to tip. IMO

How do I justify the expense?
It depends on your goals or values. If you exercise regularly or work with a personal trainer, attending your body’s recovery is a must to prevent injury. Just like you maintain your car, your hair or your computer, your body should receive self-care maintenance. Invest in yourself so you easily move through all the things you want to do in life — especially as we age. 

How are rates established?

All non-medical practitioners and specialists have ongoing training expenses and business expenses and years of experience working with peoples bodies. Physical energy limits the amount of weekly sessions possible and rates reflect market value, heavily influenced by experience. You are investing in a person in your community that is taking care of you and really listening to your concerns.

My Corrective Exercise sessions require work outside of our one-hour session so I can complete your detailed postural survey assessments and home exercise routine deliverables. I put work into researching and planning for your specific needs and my rates are set to compensate my time. 

Why don’t you take Insurance?
First, there is no coding for these services. Your insurance won’t pay for anything without a code. These services don’t typically qualify with HSA accounts either (nor does personal training or your gym membership). I can provide an invoice if you want to try for reimbursement.

Second, insurance doesn’t pay fairly. Physical therapists and doctors can seem rushed during appointments to keep up with a volume business model. They only get paid a fraction of their value and I imagine their level of burnout and compassion-fatigue is high. What you get working with specialists outside the insurance network is an excellent level of attention that you may not receive within the medical community. 

Payment Methods
I prefer Venmo, cash, or check. I also accept Apple Pay, Google Pay, and credit cards via Square Reader, with a $3 fee for single sessions and a $9 fee for 3-session packages. Online payments through Square Appointments are made by credit card and include service fees.

Do I need to commit long-term?
Nope! You can try one session, start with a short program, or book ongoing support. There’s no pressure—just support how you need it.

What’s your cancellation policy?
Your patronage is truly valued, and my concern for each client’s wellbeing is genuine. If you need to cancel your appointment, please contact me as soon as possible. I understand that things come up, rescheduling within the same week is greatly appreciated—it helps ensure you stay on track with your care and helps me maintain a balanced schedule.

As a micro-business, I will not be able to fill your appointment time on short notice, and cancellations directly affect my cash flow. I work to keep my rates as reasonable as possible and for context, I can only physically take up to 10 myofascial clients per week.

If you need to cancel on the same day as your appointment, I trust that it is for a good reason. I do not charge cancellation fees, instead please consider adding gratuity at your next session.

“What do other people do when they don’t have someone like you in their back pocket?”

— J.A. July 2022


Sessions With Melissa

Let’s Work Together!
Whether you want immediate relief, a plan to improve long-term alignment, or a combination of both — we’ll build the right program together.

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Serving Boise’s North End and Surrounding Area + Remote Online

Boise, Idaho

83702