We treat people, not body parts with Massage Therapy in Murray Hill.  Our PTs and OTs give you their undivided attention during your session. If you are in pain, we are on a quest to discover “why?” After we ask, ‘Where does it hurt? we take the time to ask: 

  • When does it hurt?
  • What position are you in when it hurts?
  • How does it affect your day?
  • Where else in your body might you be weak or stiff?
  • Have you had these symptoms in the past?
  • What does your typical day look like (sleeping, eating, stress levels, etc.)?

Equally important, we take the time to really listen to your answers.  This often uncovers surprising root causes for the pain or injury.  In fact, we once cured a right-handed pitcher’s recurring elbow pain by treating his left foot.

Using a systems approach, we analyzed his pitching form, and saw that when his left foot landed on the ground, he was a bit off balance which resulted in an inefficient movement pattern. This movement pattern increased stress to the right elbow. 

By improving his left foot mobility and balance, his right elbow pain disappeared.  A symptom approach that focused solely on treating the elbow pain, without addressing the root cause, would not have produced the same successful outcome.

We have thousands of stories like this one.  Whether you’ve never tried physical therapy before, or you have and it didn’t work for you, we offer a new perspective and the personalized one-on-one care you deserve.  Schedule an appointment today.

If you have questions regarding treatments available, or whether PT is appropriate for you, please contact us. We would be happy to discuss your situation in advance of an evaluation session.


Massage therapy slows down the nervous system and provides relief. Massage therapy in Murray Hill involves using different pressures, movements, and techniques to manipulate muscles and soft tissues. It can provide relief from stress, tension, and injuries. At H&D Physical Therapy, we offer massage therapy to our patients to support overall wellness. Continue reading to learn the different types of massage therapy and how they can help you.

What Is a Massage?

Massage therapy is one of the earliest tools practiced throughout history to relieve pain. A massage consists of a massage therapist rubbing and kneading the body with both hands. A specialist can use a variety of massage techniques to bring relief. Our licensed massage therapist will listen to your symptoms and concerns during massage therapy in Murray Hill and determine which type of massage therapy is best for you. 

Swedish Massage 

A Swedish massage is one type of massage therapy that is offered. A Swedish massage brings significant relaxation to the body. It consists of a full-body massage using a gentle touch and encourages a relaxed state of mind. Swedish massages are recommended for people who are new to massages. Our massage therapist will use a combination of the following:

  • Deep circular motions
  • Kneading
  • Long, flowing stroke in the direction of the heart
  • Passive joint movement techniques
  • Vibrations and tapping
Massage Therapy in Murray Hill

Deep Tissue Massage

A deep tissue massage is another massage technique that is more intense and loosens tight muscles, reduces chronic pain, and relieves anxiety. During a deep tissue massage, slow strokes and deep finger pressure is used by our massage therapist to relieve tension from the deepest layers of muscle. 

Sports Massage 

A sports massage can be performed as a full-body massage or just on the muscles used when playing sports or other physical activities. People prone to sports injuries and muscle tightness can be healed using this type of massage therapy. Additionally, a sports massage can increase flexibility and performance, and relieve pain, anxiety, and muscle tension.

Trigger Point Massage

A trigger point, such as a knot in your neck or a tight spot in your back, can be relieved through massage. Direct pressure is applied to your trigger points to increase blood flow, releasing them. Trigger point massages consist of a combination of broad, flowing strokes and more vigorous, deeper pressure. 

Myofascial Release 

The fascia is a web of connective tissue, which a massage therapist can work out. Myofascial release reduces tension and tightness in the neck, shoulder, or back. It is often used alongside other therapeutic massage techniques. 

Lymphatic Massage

Lymphatic fluid maintains fluid levels and removes waste products from the body. During a lymphatic massage, gentle pressure is used to help lymphatic fluid flow throughout the body. People with inflammation problems can benefit from lymphatic massages.

Prenatal Massage

A prenatal massage is a safe way pregnant women can find relief. Body aches, stress, and muscle tension are relieved during massage therapy in Murray Hill. It is recommended to wait until after the first trimester of pregnancy to get a prenatal massage. This is due to the risk of a miscarriage. Like a Swedish massage, a prenatal massage uses gentle pressure and focuses on the lower back, hips, and legs.

Benefits of Massage Therapy

Massage therapy in Murray Hill is beneficial to both the body and mind. Some specific examples of benefits massage therapy brings include the following:

  • Reduced stress and anxiety
  • Improved sleep
  • Less pain and muscle tension
  • Improved immune function
  • Relief from constipation
  • Improved fibromyalgia symptoms
  • Relief of cancer pain

Risks of Massage Therapy

There are little to no risks associated with massage therapy. In extremely rare cases, a blood clot or nerve injury can occur. These risks can only occur as a result of a vigorous type of massage or to a patient at increased risk of injury, such as the elderly. It is important to have massage therapy performed by a trained massage professional to avoid the risks.

Tips Regarding Massage Therapy

Before trying massage therapy, it can be helpful to follow these steps:

  • Do not fully replace regular medical care with massage therapy.
  • Discuss concerns with your healthcare provider.
  • Ask about the massage therapist’s training, experience, and credentials.

Contact H&D Physical Therapy: Massage Therapy in Murray Hill

Massage therapy is an efficient way to make you feel better physically, mentally, and emotionally. We offer multiple types of massage therapy in Murray Hill for you to try. Our staff at H&D Physical Therapy want to help you find relief. Contact our office to make an appointment with our licensed massage therapist.


Massage Therapy in Murray Hill

Massage therapy in Midtown is a great way to find relaxation, pain relief, and ease muscle tension. At H&D Physical Therapy,  our licensed specialist can address your concerns and alleviate your discomfort. Continue reading to learn what to expect during a massage therapy session and the possible benefits.

What Does a Massage Consist Of?

During a massage, your skin, muscles, tendons, and ligaments in your body are manipulated by a massage therapist. This manipulation can consist of pressing and rubbing in various pressures. There are different types of massage therapy techniques, such as:

  • Swedish Massage- A Swedish massage is a gentle massage consisting of long strokes, kneading, vibration, tapping, and circular movements. Swedish massages are suitable for people just starting with massage therapy. It can help you feel relaxed and energized.
  • Deep Massage- This type of massage is more intense than a Swedish massage. Deep massages consist of slower, deeper strokes to target the deeper layers of muscle. It is generally used to heal muscle damage from injuries.
  • Sports Massage- A sports massage uses the same movements as a Swedish massage. However, it is geared towards people involved in sports and physical activity. Sports massages can help prevent or treat sports injuries.
  • Trigger Point Massage- Areas of tight muscle fibers are targeted during trigger point massages. The massage helps relieve knots in the muscles which form after injuries or overuse.

Conditions Massage Therapy Helps

Massage therapy is a part of integrative medicine. Integrative medicine combines traditional Western medicine with complementary medicine. Our facility offers massage therapy alongside standard treatment for the following medical conditions:

  • Headaches
  • Anxiety
  • Myofascial pain syndrome
  • Temporomandibular joint pain
  • Low back pain
  • Digestive disorders
  • Insomnia related to stress
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Nerve pain
  • Upper back and neck pain
  • Soft tissue strains or injuries
  • Sports injuries

Massage Therapy Benefits

Some people seek massage therapy just because it feels good and brings comfort. Others try massage therapy in Midtown because of the different benefits. Some of these benefits include the following:

  • Reduced stressed
  • Relaxation
  • Pain relief
  • Relief from muscle soreness and tension
  • Improved circulation
  • Increased energy and alertness
  • Lowered blood pressure
  • Improved immune function

What to Expect During Massage Therapy in Murray Hill

Before the massage starts, our massage therapist will question you about your symptoms, medical history, and what you are looking for from the massage. Our massage therapist will then explain the kind of massage they will be doing and the techniques they will use on you. Depending on the massage type you will be receiving, you will be asked to lie on the table or in a chair. An evaluation will be performed to locate pain, knots, or tight areas on your body to determine how much pressure should be applied. Remember to breathe normally throughout the massage and speak up if any pain occurs.

Risks of Massage Therapy

Massage therapy in Midtown brings about multiple benefits to the body and mind. However, massage therapy may not be suitable for people with the following conditions:

  • Bleeding disorders
  • Burns or healing wounds
  • Deep vein thrombosis
  • Infections
  • Broken or fractured bones
  • Severe osteoporosis
  • Low platelet count

If you are unsure about massage therapy, discuss with your doctor if massage therapy is appropriate for you. Some types of massages can have you feeling sore afterward. It is normal to feel sore, but pain or discomfort shouldn’t arise. 

Contact Our Office: Massage Therapy in Murray Hill

If you can benefit from massage therapy in Midtown, consider a massage with our licensed specialist. Our team at H&D Physical Therapy wants to help you feel comfortable and pain-free. Call our office today if you would like to schedule an appointment for massage therapy.