Massage Therapy

Find a massage therapist near Palm Desert, CA

Find a massage therapist near Palm Desert, CA

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Top 10 Massage Therapists near Palm Desert, CA

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.

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.

What is the difference between a deep tissue massage and a Swedish massage?

Deep tissue massage and Swedish massage are both forms of therapeutic bodywork. In both modalities, a licensed massage therapist uses strokes administered with their hands or forearms to loosen and relax your muscles and other soft tissue. These releases can promote relaxation, pain relief and wellness.

Deep tissue massage may be an excellent therapeutic choice for people with chronic pain or severe tension in their muscles. The deep tissue massage technique moves below the top layer of muscle and soft tissue to release adhesions in your core muscles. In comparison, the strokes used in Swedish massage focus on loosening and relaxing the top layer of your soft tissues. Swedish massage produces relaxation and well-being, but if you have a long-term injury or back pain that won’t seem to go away, deep tissue massage may be a better option for you. The systematic deep tissue strokes will work to break down any scar tissue or stiff tissues and create ease in your body again.

Can you have massages while pregnant?

Not only can you have a massage while pregnant, multiple scientific studies published by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services demonstrate that pregnancy massages provide physical and mental benefits to pregnant women and women in labor. Always ask your OB-GYN about receiving massages before starting any massage therapy to make sure it is safe for your own pregnancy. Pregnancy massage can alleviate pain, improve mental health and feel great. According to the DHHS, the benefits can include:  

  • Decreased depression.
  • Decreased anxiety.
  • Decreased leg and back pain.
  • Lower cortisol levels, which in turn lowers prematurity rates.
  • Lessened labor pain (for women who received massage during labor).
  • Labor time that is three hours shorter, on average, for women who receive massage during labor.

What is a traditional Thai massage?

Traditional Thai massage is a different experience if you’ve only ever had a Swedish or deep tissue massage. In Thai massage, you wear loose-fitting clothing (often provided by the massage therapist) and start by lying on a mat. Throughout the massage, the therapist moves your body into various seated and prone positions, which stretch and release your muscles and soft tissue. Although your body is moving, the therapist is doing all the work, making it feel similar to supported yoga. The massage therapist will bend, stretch, and compress and lengthen your body using their hands, forearms, elbows and even feet. Don’t be alarmed by the feet! Many studios have overhead supports that allow the practitioners to safely walk on your back, releasing tight adhesions and promoting ease. Thai massage can be both invigorating and relaxing. It is an excellent option for keeping your muscles in good health if you regularly work out, or if you want to overcome a lack of flexibility. Studies show that Thai massage can increase blood circulation, improve flexibility, reduce muscle tension and enhance mental well-being.

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.
Reviews for Palm Desert massage therapists
Becky R.
We were in town for a few days & scheduled two 90 minute massages. It was fantastic & I highly recommend Chy massage! Both massage therapists were outstanding, listening to areas of focus and providing excellent massages.
Chy ServicesChy Services
Isaac E.
We loved Chy Massage! Ordered a Pregnancy Massage for my wife and she loved it!
Chy ServicesChy Services
Timothy C.
Great massage
Alex MassageAlex Massage
Timothy C.
Great massage and a great guy.
J.H Therapeutic massageJ.H Therapeutic massage
Diane S.
Excellent massage! Professional and knowledgeable
Chy ServicesChy Services
Tom B.
alex arrived early and adapted well to the outdoor massage. wife had a great massage and he was very attentive to her tight muscles. would recommend again!
Alex MassageAlex Massage
Daniele a.
Had a great massage and will call again 😊
Spa JetsetterSpa Jetsetter
Heather G.
One best massage i have had.
Alex MassageAlex Massage
Ty J.
He showed up promptly and gave a wonderful massage!
Alex MassageAlex Massage
Marie G.
Great massage, enjoyed every minute will book with him again...
J.H Therapeutic massageJ.H Therapeutic massage
Tina F.
Lisa was Professional and gave an amazing in home pool side deep tissue massage
Massage A VuMassage A Vu
Frank P.
I have had massages from a variety of therapist and Lisa is at the top of the list. She is truly a professional.
Massage A VuMassage A Vu
Ken H.
Best massage I had in quite some time. Joyce creates the perfect environment for relaxation and wellness. Well done.
Spa JetsetterSpa Jetsetter
Joe S.
I greatly enjoyed my massage from JK. He is skilled and strong. His studio is beautiful. Highly recommended.
JK ClinicJK Clinic
Michell B.
Alex gave one of the best massages I’ve ever had. He hit every knot and pressure point. We were looking for someone to come give our friend a massage for her 40th birthday and when she said it was amazing I had to give it a try! Can’t say enough, he was outstanding!!
Alex MassageAlex Massage
Diana Rosa M.
They responded right away. Prompt arrival and amazing service. Definitely happy with my massage and looking forward to booking this service again.
Chy ServicesChy Services
Timothy C.
A great massage and just as important a great company. You can tell this is a business that cares about their customers and their reputation. I was a little worried about someone come to my house but they were immediately responsive to every question and request I had as well as letting her know the credentials of the person who would be coming. They made sure to send the right person for the type of massage I wanted and that was great. Even after the massage was completed and they were paid they immediately reached out to me to make sure that I was satisfied. Great company They have a new customer for life.
Chy ServicesChy Services
Kellie T.
Alex came out late when we were on vacation and I appreciate that! It was late and I didn’t think I would be able to find anyone, it was the most relaxing massage I’ve ever had!
Alex MassageAlex Massage
Stephen R.
Came to the desert for some relaxation, and decided to get a massage. I made an appointment, and got a quick response. Andy showed up promptly, and very professional. He used just the right amount of pressure (I'm used to deep tissue) and knew exactly what I needed, he addressed pain points I didn’t even know I had. I feel so much better. My massage with Andy was an overall fabulous experience, and I highly recommend him. I will definitely be calling again next time I’m in town.
Andy’s Massage Therapy 🤲✨Andy’s Massage Therapy 🤲✨
David M.
Omar arrived as scheduled and promptly set up the table and his other materials. He gave me a very nice massage. He knew what he was talking about as for what he did and needed to be done. Will have him back
DeSoto's fit & wellnessDeSoto's fit & wellness
Mike k.
Lisa is a class act with MAD skills to help even the toughest cases such as myself! Been to many great massage therapists over my life and there is none better than Lisa!! Will definitely use her services again when we visit the desert area!! Choose her and you will not regret your choice!
Massage A VuMassage A Vu
Eelia H.
I had a last minute request from my clients daughter to get her a massage for her birthday. Low and behold everything was booked every place I called. I got on the Neighborhood app and some how I found thumbtack and Alexmassage. He and Maria helped to make my clients birthday a very happy day! Thank you!
Alex MassageAlex Massage
Jessica S.
Cesiah is amazing! Professional, kind, courteous, and overall just absolutely does great work! She knows the body well and it shows. Proper pressure in the right areas, she keeps good consistent touch so there is no disruption in the flow of the massage, she uses temperature in various things like towels and hot rocks to assist in relaxation at the proper moments. She's consistent on both sides, and is attentive to whatever needs you voice. Overall just a 10/10 experience, not to mention a very competative price that can't be beat for her top quality. If you're hesitant on choosing someone, you don't have to with her!
Chy ServicesChy Services
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