Massage Therapy

Find a massage therapist near Lake Balboa, CA

Find a massage therapist near Lake Balboa, CA

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Q & A

Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Thumbtack.

Do massage therapists offer remote or virtual services?

Ask massage therapists near you about the possibility of remote services. You might come across profiles that state the therapist is offering remote services such as lessons and techniques you can do on your own, with a friend or with a partner.

How long is a Swedish massage?

A Swedish massage can range from 45 minutes to 120 minutes or more. A longer massage allows the massage therapist to give you an all-over massage and then circle back to focus on areas in need of extra bodywork. Some massage therapists recommend that your first massage be longer to give the therapist time to learn more about your health and any injuries or pain before providing you with a healing massage. The longer your massage, the more it will cost. Swedish massage is made up of five body strokes designed to relax, heal, improve circulation and maintain health. The techniques are called effleurage, friction, petrissage, tapotement and vibration. During Swedish massage, all parts of the body are addressed, and the client is often unclothed and draped with a cloth. Swedish massage is proven to be beneficial to mental and physical health, and has been shown by the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine to boost the immune system.

Is hot stone massage safe in pregnancy?

If you’re ready for relaxation and relief from pregnancy pains, prenatal massage may be a great healing option. Once your prenatal care provider has approved you for pregnancy massage, look for a licensed massage therapist who also has training and certification in prenatal massage techniques.

The safety of hot stone massage during pregnancy depends on several factors including the stage of your pregnancy and where on the body the hot stones are applied. The massage therapist should avoid raising your core temperature or using hot stones on the abdomen. When in doubt, talk to your prenatal care provider.

How much are pregnancy massages?

Prenatal massages can be a safe and therapeutic way to alleviate the aches and pains of pregnancy. A prenatal massage can promote a sense of relaxation and well-being for expectant mothers. The national average cost for a pregnancy massage ranges between $70 and $90. The cost of a pregnancy massage will vary depending on where you live, the length of the massage, and the massage therapist. Typically, the longer a massage, the higher the cost. Some massage therapists charge the same rate per minute, regardless of massage length, while others charge less per minute for longer appointments. Here are two examples of average prenatal massage costs:

  • Therapist A: Offers a 30-minute massage for $45, 45 minutes for $60, 60 minutes for $75, 75 minutes for $90 and 90 minutes for $105.
  • Therapist B: offers a 30-minute massage for $45, a 60-minute massage for $85, a 90-minute massage for $115 and a 120-minute massage for $145.

How much does it cost to get a Swedish massage?

Having a Swedish massage can promote relaxation, relieve stress and help you feel great. The national average price range to hire a massage therapist is $70-$90, with prices varying based on length of massage and location. Costs may be higher for a Swedish massage if the client would like services in their home or office, as the massage therapist has to transport their massage table and account for transportation costs. Geographic location can also affect costs, as regions with a lower cost of living and a lower cost to do business will have lower rates than pricey areas such as San Francisco or New York. Here are some examples of average Swedish massage costs:

  • $50 for a 60-minute massage in North Texas.
  • $55 for a 60-minute massage in Central Texas.
  • $60 for a 60-minute massage in New Jersey.
  • $100 for a 60-minute massage in San Francisco Bay Area.

Why is it called a Swedish massage?

Everyone loves Swedish massage. It’s soothing and relaxing and, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, is proven to relieve pain. Swedish massage can also relieve symptoms associated with chronic illness, arthritis, depression and other ailments. The term Swedish massage is actually a massive mixup, according to Massage Magazine. The technique would be more aptly named classical massage, which it is often called. What we in the United States refer to as Swedish massage was actually invented by a Dutch physician named Johan Georg Mezger. Mezger systematized and gave French names to the five massage techniques used today in Swedish (or classic) massage: effleurage, friction, petrissage, tapotement and vibration. The confusion began when the techniques systematized by Mezger were attributed to Per Henrik Ling, the founder of the Swedish Movement System who had practiced his similar techniques in his gymnasium. In many parts of the world, Swedish massage is called classic massage, and most massage therapists will understand either term.

What are the different Swedish massage techniques?

There are five main techniques in Swedish massage: effleurage, friction, petrissage, tapotement and vibration. Within each category there are various movements, all intended to ease muscle tension and pain. Each movement has a specific purpose for loosening, warming, soothing or stimulating your muscles during your massage. Here is a breakdown of each of the five Swedish massage techniques:

  • Effleurage: Sweeping, gliding, smooth long strokes done with the hands or forearms. These strokes can loosen and warm the body and are said to help stimulate blood flow.
  • Friction: These circular or transverse rubbing strokes are also warming and can get deeper into the muscle tissue. They should be avoided on injured or inflamed areas or areas.
  • Petrissage: Lifting, kneading, skin rolling, muscle rolling and wringing. These movements help with circulation, which stimulates cell regeneration, and aid in loosening tense muscles.
  • Tapotement: Tapping, plucking, cupping and pounding. Tapotement movements can help improve blood circulation and cell rejuvenation, and also relax and release tight muscles.  
  • Vibration: Rocking, shaking and trembling movements. These motions can help muscles release.

Is Swedish massage safe during pregnancy?

As long as your prenatal care physician has cleared you for prenatal massage, it should be safe to indulge yourself in a Swedish massage during pregnancy. In fact, scheduling regular pregnancy massages can have wonderful health benefits for you and the baby. Swedish and other massages can feel great and also have a variety of health benefits, according to studies published by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. Some of the benefits of pregnancy massage include reduction in leg and back pain, lower levels of anxiety and depression, and a better overall mood.

To find the right massage therapist for you, read the therapist’s online reviews and call to ask them about their experience with prenatal massage. Massage therapists who have been specially trained in prenatal massage techniques often advertise this area of expertise on their websites. Don’t hesitate to ask questions beforehand, and to communicate during the massage about what does and does not feel good.

What is a deep tissue full body massage?

A deep tissue full body massage is a form of healing bodywork. At your first massage, your massage therapist will do a brief intake. They will ask you questions about the type of pressure you’d like to receive during your deep tissue massage, any previous massage experience you’ve had, and any injuries or sensitivities you have. You can remain clothed, or the massage therapist will provide draping so that even if you’re not wearing clothes you are always fully covered. Deep tissue massage may be a good option for people with chronic pain or muscle tension. The systematic deep tissue strokes will work to break down any scar tissue or stiff tissues and create ease in your body again. Massage therapists use their hands, forearms, fists and knuckles to knead and stroke your muscles and loosen adhesions. Although deep tissue massage work is intense, it should not be painful, so communicate clearly with your massage therapist so they know if you’re having any discomfort. The national average cost of a deep tissue massage is between $70 and $90.

What is the purpose of a deep tissue massage?

There are many reasons to get a deep tissue massage. A deep tissue massage can release adhesions — also known as knots — that are causing painful tension in your muscles. Deep tissue massage can promote healing and ease discomfort related to illnesses such as cancer, chronic headaches, osteoarthritis of the knee, chronic neck or back pain, depression, and more, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. If you have an old sports injury such as shin splints, or a bad back from an old car accident, deep tissue massage can promote healing in your traumatized and scarred soft tissues and get you on the road to recovery. The strokes and techniques used in deep tissue massage work to lengthen soft tissue structures that have stiffened and hardened into knotty adhesions that allow minimal movement. Deep tissue massage can loosen these adhesions so that long-standing scar tissue releases and you can gain more mobility and more freedom from stiffness and pain. And it just feels good. The national average cost of a deep tissue massage is between $70 and $90.

Reviews for Lake Balboa massage therapists
Bec H.
I had a wonderful experience having a massage through Yael. This was my first massage since being pregnant and Yael was very knowledgable and shared many tips with me in managing through my pregnancy. Yael was very professional and provided details of products and techniques she was using throughout the massage to ensure my comfort. I would highly recommend Yael and will hopefully be getting another massage soon.
Soothing Massage by YaelSoothing Massage by Yael
Kc a.
Bella was very nice and the massage was very relaxing.
Spa JetsetterSpa Jetsetter
Ryan m.
Great massage, already booked my next appt
Zaharah’s MassageZaharah’s Massage
BK K.
Excellent massage, very polite, on time and overall a nice lady.
LindaLinda
Aliah A.
Fast response, great massage therapy. Will definitely contact again!
Asatur Gyurjyan, CMTAsatur Gyurjyan, CMT
Michael s.
Excellent massage. Patient and methodical. I'm a bodyworker and am very particular about receiving work. I loved the massage, fell asleep a couple of times during the 90 minutes. Felt deeply touched and relaxed.
Marina AnderssonMarina Andersson
Cole W.
Very thorough and thoughtful massage, I felt great for a week afterward!
Jon MarinoJon Marino
Jake P.
Very knowledgeable excellent massage helpful with great attitude & care. Highly recommend.
FlyByZ Stretch/Meditation/WellnessFlyByZ Stretch/Meditation/Wellness
Matt P.
Yael is an amazing masseuse and brought all the supplies for a hot stone massage to our home. Her massage was therapeutic and very relaxing. She also played soothing music during the session. My wife also received a deep tissue massage and was very happy with it. We look forward to having Yael in our home again! PS: she is very covid safe and wore a mask the whole time
Soothing Massage by YaelSoothing Massage by Yael
Tracy L.
Yael is a mother of 3; as I’m a mother of 2. We related to each other in many ways as both mothers. She gave a strong appropriate massage for my sciatica symptoms for 1 hour as requested. I received my massage only after she had completed my son’s professional, appropriate & thorough massage: he is a Jr on the Santa Monica High School’s track team & was experiencing pain in his feet directly related to his running.He also had pain in his lower back region which was handled completely. My son said it was 1 of the best sports massages he’s received ever. He felt Yael completes the job. I was also impressed w Yael’s thoroughness, knowledge of the body, appropriate behavior, & someone ‘s ability to get my pain levels under control- even temporarily.
Soothing Massage by YaelSoothing Massage by Yael
Steve A.
Kathy arrived timely, set up her table, she is very professional and very attentive, Great personality, her massage is just perfect, I would definitely will schedule again and will recommend to others
Healing touch massage by Kathy.Healing touch massage by Kathy.
Tim R.
Absolutely a lifelong client now! This was hands down the most unique and 100% effective massage I’ve ever had! I felt so comforted by the personable vibe and professional demeanor! Book now or miss out on this truly rising gifted service!
Aboriginal Holistic RemediesAboriginal Holistic Remedies
Steve A.
I had a wonderful experience with Kat. Her positive energy translated throughout our 120 minute session. She is knowledgeable in several areas of massage therapy and has genuine interest in the wellness of the client. I will most definitely schedule again and recommend her to family and friends.
Kat Kavanagh CMTKat Kavanagh CMT
Demetrius J.
Mam is the perfect massage therapist. My wife had a back spasm and Mam came after we made an appointment. She eased a lot of my wife’s pain and the next day she was walking better! Mam was very responsive, professional and did an amazing job. Highly recommend to make an appointment with her! :)
Massage in home by MamMassage in home by Mam
Elaine R.
I thank Yael for a wonderful experience. She responded quickly to my request, was able to accommodate me quickly and was professional from start to finish. She was able to meet me where I was at with what I needed from a massage and masseuse, and I feel infinitely better 1 day later! Thank you, Yael!!!
Soothing Massage by YaelSoothing Massage by Yael
Asavari K.
Yael was wonderful! I wanted to book a massage for my husband and myself. Yael responded immediately and set up an appointment despite the short notice. She was very warm, empathetic and professional and went the extra mile. She gave us cute face masks as gifts as well as some wellness tips for working from home. We both felt very relaxed and highly recommend working with Yael!
Soothing Massage by YaelSoothing Massage by Yael
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