What it is
Therapeutic massage uses hands-on techniques to work the body's soft tissues: muscles, tendons, ligaments and fascia. A licensed massage therapist tailors the session to you, from gentle Swedish massage for relaxation to deep tissue work for stubborn tension and sports massage for training and recovery.
Massage is one of the oldest healing practices, and it can help the body shift into its rest and digest state. Research supports it for easing back and neck pain and lowering stress and anxiety, and many hospitals and physical therapy programs now include it.
What happens at a visit
- A short talk about where you feel pain or tension and what you want from the session.
- You lie on a padded table, clothed or draped with a sheet.
- Hands-on work using several techniques.
- Pressure adjusted to what feels right for you.
- Some tender spots may soften as the therapist works.
- Many people feel deeply relaxed afterward.
- Self-care tips such as stretches or heat.
Who it is for
- People with chronic pain or muscle tension
- People dealing with stress, anxiety or burnout
- Athletes in training or recovering from injury
- People with trouble sleeping
- People recovering from surgery, once their doctor agrees
- Anyone who wants time to relax and recharge
Evidence and safety
Massage has good research support for short-term relief of back and neck pain and for easing anxiety, and guidelines list it as an option for low back pain. With a licensed massage therapist (LMT) it is very safe. Skip it or adjust it if you have a blood clot, an acute injury or severe osteoporosis. If you are pregnant or have a medical condition, tell your therapist first.
How Gabriel helps
Finds
The right practitioner near youQualified practices close to you, with the exact service checked before anything is booked.
Books
The visit, start to finishOn the practice's booking page, by phone or by email. Gabriel texts you the time.
Pays
From your budget on Gabriel CareEligible care is paid up to 100% at Gabriel Network practices and up to 50% elsewhere, on Emerald, Sapphire and Onyx.
Therapeutic Massage near you
Cities where Gabriel's directory has three or more practices that offer it. Anywhere else, Gabriel searches for you.
Common questions
How much does Therapeutic Massage cost?
Typically $80 to $150, depending on the practice and the city.
Does Gabriel Care cover Therapeutic Massage?
Eligible care in a covered category is paid from your monthly budget on Emerald, Sapphire and Onyx: up to 100% at Gabriel Network practices and up to 50% elsewhere. Ask Gabriel and it checks before you book.
Can Gabriel book a visit for me?
Yes, with a free account. Tell Gabriel where you are and when you are free. Gabriel finds a qualified practitioner, books the visit and texts you the time. If a practice cannot be booked automatically, your care team takes it from there.
This page is general information, not medical advice. A licensed practitioner decides what care is right for you. Gabriel membership is not health insurance.