Our Reviews
Loved my massage with Becky so much. It was truly nourishing, and she is so kind and attuned. Up there with the best I’ve ever had!
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Mariana
10/21/2024
I was gifted a massage at Synapse and had the joy of a 90-minute fully body massage with Becky. I asked her to focus on my neck, shoulders and hips, and I am still feeling the benefits of that 2 weeks later. It was a lovely space (music lightly playing in the background, lights dimmed, room the right temperature), and I was comfortable the entire time. The massage itself did wonders for my mental, emotional, and physical well-being. I cannot wait to return and get another one!
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Priya Shukla
10/04/2024
Michelle, the CMT was very intuitive and provided relief for my consistent hip pain. She knew what muscles to focus on and how to release the tension.
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Leo Morozoff
10/04/2024
While on a business trip to the Oakland area, I decided to visit Synapse Massage and Body Works, and it exceeded all my expectations. The facility was immaculate, and the staff were exceptionally friendly. I opted for the 90-minute massage and was thoroughly pleased with the experience. I felt an immediate improvement, and the next morning I woke up feeling rejuvenated. I highly recommend this place to both locals and visitors; you won't be disappointed. In fact, I'm planning to return before heading back to New York. Thank you so much!
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Gregory N Papageorge
7/04/2024
Wonderful spot in the East Bay - friendly staff (seen four different specialist and they’ve all been fantastic) and clean/welcoming space. Highly recommend!
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Lexi Vanni
7/04/2024
Becky was amazing! I always say there is no such thing as a bad massage but I can tell you there is such a thing as a great massage! Overall experience was great, easy to book online, clean building and the room very nice and relaxing. Hope to book another session with Becky in the next few weeks.
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Shelly Skay
7/04/2024
Had an amazing experience with Cole. I’ve been stress and anxiety lately which is taking a toll on my body and he knew exactly how to help me. I will definitely be returning
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Ginger Schmidt
6/04/2024
Fiona was so kind and friendly. They immediately made me feel safe, asked about what I needed, and validated my concerns using their niche knowledge. Probably the best massage I’ve gotten, as it felt very personal unlike spas that provide one size fits all services. I would highly recommend them and plan on returning in a couple weeks!
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Grace DePriest
6/04/2024
Pros: Quick turnaround booking, clean space with a warming massage table, and the massage while laying on my back was nice. I would consider re-booking with a different masseuse due to location convenience. Cons: I had Amy and got the sense they might be new. I spent most of the massage waiting for them to get in their rhythm. I get massages regularly and this may be the only one I can remember where I did not leave feeling any kind of release or benefit. They only had 90min appointments available, so it was an expensive booking to determine this was not the right fit for me.
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Alex J. Bledsoe
6/04/2024
I started going to Synapse when I was recovering from the impact of Shingles on both my muscles and my nerves. I exercise, train, play sports, etc daily and I would randomly get a massage but I'd never had a person that I would go to on rotation. I'd always wanted to find a place and a person that I could go to more proactively vs reacting to an issue or an injury but I never got around to it. Recovering from the pain and discomfort of Shingles that lingered long after the rash disappeared was motivation to find someone to help me feel normal again but I now go Synapse just like I get a haircut or a teeth cleaning because I always have something to work on and a motivation to feel better physically and mentally. I found Synapse through a google search and chose someone for the bodywork based on their profile and their work with the nervous system (Dana Jayne). My first appointment was remarkable, Dana listened to what was going on with me and focused on my nerves and muscles in the area where I had lingering pain and discomfort and also focused on other areas where I have regular discomfort from daily life. I immediately felt better and although it is a luxury to be able to get body work regularly, I see the benefits of proactive treatment as an investment worth making that will probably save me money over the course of my life while making me feel amazing every time I go in
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Marin Blomquist
5/04/2024
Have a specific issue with your tissues? Go get a massage from Cole, he has a deep knowledge of the body and its moving parts, and he supports you with kindness, grace, and good humor. Highly recommend!
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Kiva Brown
2/04/2024
I really enjoyed my massage appointment at Synapse. I felt my therapist Dustin was attentive, understood my issues and gave me a great massage. I felt very comfortable, and appreciated how nice and clean the building and office setting was. I will definitely return.
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Steve Nugent
1/04/2024
Dustin provided excellent service - I was greeted warmly, and Dustin asked what areas I needed extra attention on. The massage itself was great - Dustin skillfully worked on my tough areas, even finding a section that had more tension than I'd realized. Highly recommend!
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Talisa Humphrey
1/04/2024
I am 76 years old and hadn't a massage in about 15 years. I was suffering from significant hip pain. I made an appointment and everything went perfectly. Anna likened my condition to a car that had not been serviced in so many years. She went to work on me for 90 minutes in a very thoughtful way, soliciting my reactions and explaining her observations. When she was done, I dressed to leave and waited for the pain of my first step. There was none. I will be going back because there is more to do, and this is an environment that I already believe in.
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dixonct57
1/04/2024
*Update on original review* less than 24 hours after the below review, the owner reached out to me via email apologizing and refunding my most recent massage. Again, I enjoyed the original massage with Naomi and will be booking another one. Original review: I have had 2 prenatal massages here - one with Naomi, which was great, and one with a different therapist which was a huge waste of money. It was extremely light, I don't think my muscles came into contact with her hands, just my skin. It felt the same as when I put on lotion after a shower. I asked twice for higher pressure and was told "no" because I'm pregnant. I left much more stressed than when I arrived because of how much money and time I was wasting. Yes, prenatal massage is lower pressure than normal, but Naomi managed to actually massage my muscles rather than rub oil on my skin. People who aren't comfortable giving massages to pregnant people (science says medium pressure is ok) shouldn't offer this service.
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Alexandra Carr
1/04/2024
I scheduled a massage with Gianluca based on so many positive reviews and those reviews were right! I’ve been getting deep tissue massages with trigger point work for years and have seen so many wonderful masseuses. But I simply cannot recommend Gianluca enough. Recently threw my back out for the first time and have been dealing with pain down one of my legs for two months… had no pain in the leg for the first time in two months following the massage. Definitely go see him, esp. if you feel like your body is a mess!! You won’t regret it.
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Madeline Krasno
1/04/2024
Naomi was amazing, strong yet gentle. They made me feel very comfortable from the jump and listened to my concerns (regarding my back, shoulder, and neck pain) with compassion and understanding. I highly recommend them as your therapist!
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Kristen Choi
12/04/2023
Fiona's work is very subtle, respectful, and gave tremendous relief to my injured hip and hamstring. Their touch is gentle and the work released fascial binding (from an injury) without pain. I've had many massages and different types of bodywork, and Fiona is one of the best.
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mary Land
11/04/2023
Excellent folks. I see Naomi regularly, but have also seen Zoe a couple of times, and both of them are wonderful to work with, talented, and great at listening to what's going on with my body. It's so important for folks with marginalized identities to feel safe, especially with something like massage, and I deeply appreciate that I feel that there. So glad I found Synapse.
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Reid Lewis
11/04/2023
My family gifted me a massage at this place for my birthday. Massage was ok, I asked the masseuse to apply more pressure which she did but didn’t keep it consistent, she took her hands off me in several occasions to get more oil, that didn’t happen at another location I went. Charging $30 dollars upfront for tip it’s not ok, I believe we should tip if we want to, accordingly to the service received. Instead of making it up to the masseuses with tips from customers, company should pay them better. Not planning on returning.
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Moon 12
11/04/2023
My session w/ Aeryn was stellar! Started with a welcoming & thorough initial check-in, then a great massage that checked every box and worked out every crunchy knot and and tight spot. 13/10 will book again 🏆 The Synapse suite itself (what I saw of it) was very clean, and it was good to see strict Covid protocols in place when that’s sort of a crapshoot these days.
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Jon Ryan
11/04/2023
Very relaxing prenatal massage with . I believe I fell asleep mid way 🙂 I was 34wks pregnant and having serious issues with a specific spot on my mid back. She massaged between my ribs, something I never knew you could do which really helped it.
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Radhika Patel
11/04/2023
After a year of searching for a good massage therapist, I finally found one. Amy was fantastic at listening, and very attentive to specific areas of work needed. Highly recommend her for deep tissue work.
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Tom Sieu
11/04/2023
This was my first visit with Cole. He was so thoughtful and knowledgeable. I really appreciated him. I've been in pain for a year now and believe we have some movement in the right direction.
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Deborah Todd
11/04/2023
Great massage therapy business. My wife got me a gift certificate for which included the massage and the gratuity, and they made the experience seamless and super easy. I saw Cole, who was an ideal fit for what I was looking for. He is a great compliment to the physical therapist I am seeing and I'll definitely be back.
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Neville
11/04/2023
I stumbled on this studio two years ago, and even after moving to a different area of Oakland, I keep coming back here because of the expertise and care of their massage therapists. I have booked sessions with a handful of their therapists and every single one has been wonderful. They always inquire about how my body feels that day, ask about any injuries and any specific areas of focus. The studio is clean and calming, I always leave feeling refreshed and ready to book the next one. I can’t recommend them enough!
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Molly Carpenter
11/04/2023
Aeryn is fantastic. I’ve had lots of massages. Receive treatments regularly within the community and when traveling. All bodies are different so I empathize with the therapist’s difficult job in getting to know a clients needs very quickly. Aeryn’s process overlaid onto my muscular concerns melded quickly. She found the spots and did the hard work and my calves, hips and hamstrings are much better for it! I’ll be back.
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Jack Jones
11/04/2023
I had a great massage and overall experience with Zoe. She asked me what I was wanting to focus on at the start of the session, and did a beautiful combination of lymphatic and deep tissue massage. I felt comfortable enough to tell her when something hurt (which is rare!) and when I did, she’d have me do a stretch, press the area again, and I could literally feel the pain melt away. It was incredible. Great price for a wonderful service. I can’t wait to go back!
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Simone Seliger
11/04/2023
I had an amazing massage with Zoe. Synapse was also very easy to book with and easy to get to and park. Zoe spent a few minutes chatting with me about my specific needs and areas of focus. I loved that she talked me through what she was doing and helped me to understand how many of my problem areas are interconnected. She provided me with some movements I can do to manage clenching and pain which I really appreciated. Zoe is super knowledgeable and I could feel the tension leaving my pain points as she massaged. I’ll definitely be back to see her!
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Kaitlyn Moberly
11/04/2023
I had a massage with Anna Seva last week. She’s a nice lady but she doesn’t know how to work with after surgery patients. I asked for lymphatic drainage massage but what she did was just gentle regular massage; she didn’t know what she was doing. Won’t come back there. Definitely won’t recommend it if you are looking for post surgery treatment.
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Irina Velitskaya
11/04/2023
I had a first time massage with Naomi on 07/04 and I had the best time ever. She made me feel very comfortable and asked me important questions about what type of massage I was looking for. After I left I was feeling so relaxed, I definitely recommend her and I can’t wait to book my next appointment!
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Carla Rocha
11/04/2023
I had a wonderful massage with Ximena. She took amazing care of my tired body and I would highly recommend her to anyone. The ease of parking and the very nice room one gets seen in only added to the top notch experience. Will definitely be returning. Thank you!
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Kate Pollack
11/04/2023
Aeryn is a true healer and I cannot say enough beautiful words about her gifts; you just have to experience her. It was honestly the most healing bodywork I’ve ever experienced 🙂 I arrived feeling tired and full of tension and left feeling open, aware and tender. I am so grateful for her care and attention. She truly understands the body’s wisdom
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Jenn Chowdhury
11/04/2022
I had a first appointment with Aeryn in April 2022. I came in feeling tight all over, like my body was holding onto lymph and grief, stress and tension, and I wanted support finding more space before a trip to care for ailing family members. From the first moment Aeryn put their hands on me, my body relaxed and found ease. They continued to work out the gnarliest places on my back and in my neck, in my forearms, knowing the exact quirky places where my body holds tension or has a history of injury. I began to feel my blood flow more easily, actually feeling lymph drain, and breathing more deeply and with greater ease. Their pressure was just right for me: firm enough to make sure things actually moved, knots were actually untangled and crunchy places smoothed out, but not so firm that I was in pain (which I've experienced before from other bodyworkers). I also appreciated Aeryn's consent framework at the top of our appointment, where I really trusted that they wanted to hear my limits, needs, comfort levels. As a trans person who can feel anxious in vulnerable settings like this, I found Aeryn grounding and trauma- / queer-informed. Last, I also really vibes with the quiet way Aeryn worked, where I felt invited to speak up if I needed something but where it was also nice to just relax and receive without feeling like I needed to make small talk. I know this is silly, but I really do appreciate knowing it's ok just just be present. I will be returning and have already recommended Synapse to a friend!
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Beezer de Martelly
11/04/2022
I had a 90 minute massage with Stan and I can't say enough good things about him and his work. He's very attuned to the places where there is any tension and gives extra attention to those. He's very calm and gentle so it's easy to relax in his care. I really like how he also includes the facial pressure points and scalp. Also, love having hands and feet massaged; I mean, who doesn't? Highly recommend.
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Nancy Lasner
11/04/2022
I've been to Synapse three times in the past year, I think. I've seen Gianluca each time. I highly recommend this establishment. I've always felt safe, I've always felt listened to, I have always felt taken care of and most importantly, I have always felt great after the massage. Today, Gianluca worked absolute miracles. I've told everyone who's asked to come here.
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Kelly Kikuchi
11/04/2022
I had a great massage from Cole. He definitely knows what he’s doing and he’s very knowledgeable. He was so kind and patient to answer all my so many questions about muscle anatomy. He addressed my pain points and shows me tricks to help relive tension at home. I’ll definitely be coming back.
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khadijah mazzah
11/04/2022
I had a massage from Cole, who in detail addressed many injuries- old and new. I now feel like a new person. The office is clean, modern and very welcoming with a professional feel. I received one of the best massages Ive ever had- thank you Cole!
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Tish Campbell
11/04/2022
First massage since the before-times and Gianluca was amazing. I felt super comfortable which is important to me, love that he specializes in treating queer people. Highly recommend him especially if you need some deep tissue magic. Wish I could go regularly but I haven’t gotten rich yet so I’ll have to wait. Thanks for a blissful 90 minutes!!!
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Kanna Livingston
11/04/2022
Had a great 90 minute massage with Zoe Burton. She listened to what I was looking for and really personalized the massage. She also helped with some assisted stretching which was awesome as I am a PE teacher and always on my feet and being active. Highly recommend this spot.
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Gus Gauntlett
11/04/2022
My massage experience was awesome. I liked the heated table, music and ambiance. Amy was very professional and thorough, tending to the areas of my body that needed attention. I felt very relaxed and taken care of and would definitely go back for another visit.
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Jared Shaffer
11/04/2022
I have never experienced a massage like this before. Not only did it feel great, it was incredibly healing and restorative. Zoe was able to release the tension in my neck in shoulders, and it lasted weeks after the massage! She also taught me a few stretches to help with maintaining the progress she was able to make in the massage. Highly recommend.
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Jen Nguyen
11/04/2022
Had my first post-natal massage after I had my baby and it was everything I needed. I was initially nervous about my csection and other new mom issues that I thought might come up during my massage, but my massage therapist Carolyn put me at ease and answered all my questions. She gave me an amazing massage, I felt relaxed and refreshed!
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tiffani dangelico
11/04/2021
Vicky was very kind and helpful over the course of my experience. They helped identify the area that was causing me pain, were very communicative throughout the massage, and offered me multiple strategies for continuing to stretch at home. I would definitely recommend them and return to Synapse! Thanks for a comfortable and supportive experience, and a great massage.
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Natalie May
11/04/2021
From the moment I walked into their building, Synapse Massage felt like a place I could truly relax. From making an appointment to actual massage with Carolyn to follow up, every step was seamless. I love my newfound comfort place.
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Rebecca Beardsley
11/04/2021
When I first found Synapse Massage and Bodywork, I had neglected my neck and shoulders for too long and am so grateful Ximena saved me!! I love it when I fall into a deeply relaxed state during a massage, and that is exactly what happened. Afterward, I left pain-free and felt my neck and shoulders continue to unwind afterward. l have now had three massages at Synapse Massage and Bodywork. Before my third massage, Ximena reached out to me letting me know that she had a personal emergency. Rather than having to cancel, which is of course understandable once in a while, she and her team were able to offer me several other massage times so that I could still come in for a massage that day. I met Stevie that day and received another excellent treatment. Very nice building and clean, tranquil space. Thanks so much!!
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Katherine Monahan
11/04/2020
A few weeks ago, I had a wonderful massage at Synapse Massage and Bodywork! The setting is peaceful and calming, which sets the stage for a relaxing massage. Wow the knots in my neck and shoulders are gone and I slept soundly that night! Hallelujah! The staff is very nice an all around terrific experience! I highly recommend them.
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lawrence mckendell
11/04/2020
What a lovely experience my father and I had at Synapse. Our massage therapists were waiting to greet us in their peaceful little lobby before helping us get logged into their system and situated in our cozy private rooms. I appreciated that my masseuse, Carolyn, took the time to ask me if there was anything she needed to know about before the massage, like past injuries or places to avoid etc. It was a very comfortable and professional experience. Pressure was perfect, environment was quiet and relaxing, and I even got a hot towel at the end in case I wanted to wipe away any oil, which was a nice touch. My dad and I went in with a lot of neck and shoulder tension, and left feeling pain-free and entirely taken care of. Thank you to Carolyn, Anna, and Stan at Synapse. I will be coming back for sure.
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Katie Paige
11/04/2018
I was delighted to get a last minute/same day appointment! Stan was fantastic, we reviewed my score areas and he worked out all my stress and knots. The space is calming and perfectly located for me. I'm looking forward to my new regular massage therapist!
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jessica brown
11/04/2018
I have been a client of Synapse Massage and Bodywork for almost three years. No one is better than Stan Barrett in running such a well-organized and welcoming environment. I have been seeing Carolyn during these past years and we have formed a wonderful professional and personal relationship. My needs are met in every way possible and I am always looking forward to my next appointment. I absolutely recommend putting yourself into such capable hands and you will not be disappointed.
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Joan Suyat
11/04/2017
I'd never had a massage before my referral to see Zoe at Synapse. WOW! Wow! WOW!!!!!!!
I may be a novice at receiving a... Read More massage, but there's no mistaking that Zoe is on a different level when it comes to knowledge and care. Her introduction was so very considerate.
I have Chronic Knee pain after five major knee surgeries and replacements, and Zoe's specialized Scar Movement massage work is so impactful, both on pain reduction and even range of motion! Wow! Who knew!
I didn't... in fact, this is year 23 since my injury, and for the first time, I'm receiving really important and helpful care for my body, and Zoe's massage and body work at Synapse, is an essential component in my healing work.
Thanks Zoe!!!
FIVE STARS doesn't really do justice to what working with her has meant to both my body and to me (both physically and emotionally too)!!
I recommend Massage at Synapse, and with Zoe in particular, with my whole heart (& my whole body too)!!!
Wylie L.10/27/2024
I've never felt a massage was worth the money until I came to Synapse and had a massage by Dana. She is fantastic. I've come in twice now for shoulder/nerve... Read More issues and both times she has put me back together again and my whole body feels aligned and at peace. I will definitely be returning!
Rebecca R.10/17/2024
Alex was amazing. 90 mins felt like 3 hours and my hip is a brand new woman. Just the right amount of pressure, stretching and relaxing. This was my first... Read More time to Synapse and it feels like I've finally found my go-to place for my regular massage.
Kristine C.5/28/2024
I had a 90 minute massage with Anna Seva. Anna is a great therapist. This was one of the best massages I have had in the Bay Area.... Read More Anna has great technique and is capable of providing very strong pressure. The facility is very clean, but I am NOT a fan of waiting outside in the hallway for my therapist to come get me. There is free parking in the back of the building.
Gabe V.3/29/2024
Wonderful location and over the top great massage. Two therapists both named Anna are fantastic.
Linda D.2/23/2024
I have tried a couple masseuse here and never left satisfied. The only option is 90 minutes, which is a good amount of time - but it doesn't feel... Read More like they ever use it well. If I request focusing on an area, and they brush over it, what's the point of the 90 minutes? This massage is not worth it for the price you pay. The the massage style, pressure, and customization is lacking. they don't ask about the bolster, the heat, the neck support. you have to tell them everything, which is fine, but when I'm getting a massage I want the person to communicate with me, and make sure I'm getting the help I need and am comfortable as they work on my person..
sad
Sidra F.1/25/2024
Cole is amazing! If I could give him more stars, I would. I chose him due to his experience with rehab and physical therapy. I came to him due to... Read More chronic pain from herniated discs in my lower back. He is so knowledgeable about the human body! I enjoy that he allows me to completely relax, but also explains what is going on with my muscles that could be causing pain. His massages are unique and tailored to my needs every time. I always feel like a new person when I leave! Every time I have felt more mobile and in effect my quality of life improves. These massages are so worth it! Out of all the treatments I have received for my back, Cole's massages and physical therapy have been crucial for my healing journey. I am so grateful for Cole and I will continue to be regular at Synapse in order to maintain and advance my recovery.
Delia N.12/20/2023
Gianluca was very knowledgeable and really took his time and listened to my needs. Great for a deeper massage to relieve stress and tension. On top of the the place... Read More was very clean and relaxing. An overall great experience, I will definitely be coming back soon.
Vanessa L.11/27/2023
I met with Dustin yesterday for a pinched nerve that had basically rendered me immobile, I was in so much pain. Dustin listened to me and definitely heard my need,... Read More because he worked very thoughtfully on the area, helping the muscles to relax and the pain to diminish. Today, I feel SO much better; while still very sore, it no longer feels like something is wrong. I was able to make the appointment same day and get there with ease. I've never tried this place before but definitely will return. It is more expensive than some of the other massage locations I've been to, but it was absolutely worth it! Thank you Dustin!
Andrea S.11/15/2023
Gianluca was awesome. Super impressive deep massage. Knew how to push right up to the edge.
Thanks!!
Gavan W.9/14/2023