Where to Get a Massage

Common Settings

• Solo and group practices: Many massage therapists set up their own practices in their homes or in com­mercial spaces, either alone or with other therapists. Another option is a house call, in which the therapist will bring a massage table and any other needed equipment and perform the massage in your home.
• Physical therapy and chiropractic offices: Many physical therapists and chiropractors offer massage services at their offices. You may receive a brief massage as part of your treatment or be able to arrange a massage for a separate fee.
• Spas: Spas typically offer personal-care treatments, such as facials, waxing, and body scrubs, in addition to massage. Day spas cater to a specific area or neighborhood, whereas destination spas are more elaborate resorts where you can visit and stay for several days.
   
  
• Wellness centers: These establishments have health practitioners on staff who offer acupuncture, nutritional counseling, energy work, and other supplemental therapies. Some wellness centers are located in or affiliated with hospitals.
• Gyms: Health clubs often have on-site spas or massage rooms.
• Workplace: More and more employers are now providing massage services to their workers, often in the form of in-office chair massages by visiting practitioners (shown here). Some larger companies have in-house massage therapists who do full sessions on site.
   
  

How to Choose a Massage Therapist and Location

• If you want simply to relax or have never received bodywork, a spa or health club is a good place to start. However, though these places provide a pleasant, relaxing atmosphere, you may not receive very personal attention or therapeutic intent.
• If you’re looking for more specific results or plan to receive massage often, you may want to avoid a spa and try to find a massage therapist whose style fits your goals. Physical therapists, personal trainers, and others in the physical wellness field can often refer you to a particular therapist.

Credentials