Therapeutic Massage in London
0 therapists · Greater London
Clinically targeted soft tissue work that treats the cause of pain. London has the widest choice of massage therapists in the country and the sharpest differences between neighbourhoods.
No therapeutic massage in London yet
Browse the rest of the city, or look for this same service in other locations.
What is therapeutic massage?
Therapeutic massage is soft tissue treatment with a clear clinical aim: to restore function, reduce pain and address what is causing a problem rather than only easing its symptoms. It is the umbrella under which deep tissue, myofascial release, trigger point work, stretching and lymphatic drainage all sit, and a therapeutic session will use whichever of them the assessment calls for.
It differs from relaxation massage in intent and structure. Expect questions about your history and daily activities, some movement tests, focused work on the areas involved rather than a full body routine, and advice to take away. The pressure is set by what the tissue needs rather than by preference.
People book it for persistent back, neck and shoulder pain, postural problems, recovery after injury or surgery, and conditions such as fibromyalgia where general massage is too much. Sessions are 45 to 60 minutes. Therapists offering it often hold advanced qualifications and work from clinics; many are on the CNHC register, which some insurers recognise.
Read the full guide to therapeutic massage — what it involves, who it suits and what it costs. Also known as clinical soft tissue therapy, pain relief massage and medical massage therapy.
Where to find it in London
Mayfair, Knightsbridge and Chelsea hold the high-end clinics and hotel spas, where ninety-minute treatments and a few days' notice are the norm and rates run a third above the rest of the city. Soho and Shoreditch are younger and later, with studios open until ten and a strong showing of Thai and deep tissue work for people coming straight from the office. Kensington and Paddington have the largest number of independent therapists working from their own treatment rooms, and Canary Wharf is almost entirely a weekday market: mobile massage to offices and hotels, sports and back treatments booked at lunchtime, and very little at weekends.
More on massage in London as a whole — areas, pricing and how booking works locally.
The areas with most availability across all treatments are Mayfair, Soho, Kensington and Chelsea. Browse everything in London.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between therapeutic and relaxation massage?
Relaxation massage aims at a pleasant, calming experience; therapeutic massage aims at a physical outcome such as less pain or more movement. The session is assessed, targeted and may include stretching and advice, and it is not always relaxing while it is happening.
Do I need a referral for therapeutic massage?
No. You can book directly. If you are under the care of a doctor or physiotherapist for the problem, tell the therapist so they can work alongside that treatment.
How much does therapeutic massage cost?
Between £50 and £90 per session, with the first appointment sometimes longer and priced accordingly to allow for assessment.