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Massage Therapy Works
Category: Beauty and Spas Massage Massage [Edit]
255 Elm StSte 302
Somerville, MA 02144
Neighborhood: Davis Square
(617) 684-4000
- Nearest Transit:
-
Elm St @ Chester St (87, 88, 89, 90, 94, 96)
Davis Square Busway (87, 88, 89, 90, 94, 96)
Davis Square - Outbound (Red Line)
- Hours:
Mon-Tue 9 am - 8 pm
Wed 7:30 am - 9 pm
Thu-Fri 7:30 am - 8 pm
Sat 10 am - 6 pm
Sun 10 am - 9 pm
- Price Range:
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$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- By Appointment Only:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
71 reviews for Massage Therapy Works
71 reviews in English
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Review from theresa c.
Cambridge, MA
11/14/2011
I've gone to MTW twice now and had a wonderful experience both times. There's definitely a relaxing, high end, yogic vibe in their office, but I didn't feel out of place wearing sweatpants. I saw Jan the first time, and unfortunately I don't recall the name of the second practitioner I worked with, but they were both amazing. I was really hurting the first time I went in, and had limited range of motion in my neck and shoulders. Before the massage, Jan spent time asking me questions, analyzing my posture, and even assessing my energy alignment. I've read some reviews on here from people who did not like this part of the treatment, but I was grateful for it. I have multiple conditions, and Jan really listened to what I was going through, and I didn't feel like I lost out on massage time because of it. I told her my main goal was pain reduction, and she definitely helped me with that. She did some cranial massage,which I paid a little extra for. I was warned it would hurt a bit, and it did, but I felt much better afterward and re-gained complete range of motion. Jan has a very calming energy and a holistic approach to massage, incorporating elements of energy work into her techniques.
When I went back the second time, they were running a walk-in special which was great. Anytime my inability to plan ahead is rewarded, sign me up! They had an open appointment in half hour, so I went downstairs and shopped around the new thrift store to kill time. The second practitioner I saw spent a little less time on the initial analysis, and didn't have as much of a spiritual/ energy focus, but I still thought she was great. I was in less pain during this visit; it was a present to myself for my birthday. I had a great massage where she spent a lot of time on my right arm, which suffers from 9-5 desk job syndrome, AKA clickthemousealldayitis. She found all sorts of weird areas that I did not know hurt, and made them feel better. She also gave me some really helpful, easy suggestions for stretches and self-massage.
Both times I went here, I had just been to David Square Chiropractic for adjustments. My sister is a massage therapist who recommends getting massages after chiropractic adjustments, to reenforce the chiropractic adjustments to your spine in the surrounding muscles. I definitely recommend doing that, and Davis Square Chiropractic is also great. I can't wait to go back to MTW! -
Review from Colleen B.
Middlesex, MA
9/27/2011
Yesterday, Rochele worked on my sore arm (from too many years hunched over a computer) and today I am still flexible and loose. She was super nice and really good at finding the painful areas.
I've been going to MTW on and off for 4 years now and seen multiple people. Each has been great. I really like that each time I've gone the therapist has taken the time to show me stretches for my specific issue.
It's not a spa, so keep that in mind. But, I like that. I just want to go in and get "fixed" by people who know what they are doing. I really like the online appt system too. After booking an appointment you can pay for it online, before even getting there. After a massage, I just want to go home and not deal with paying. -
Review from Natalie C.
Los Angeles, CA
9/26/2011
In full disclosure, the session was great, but unfortunately, it wasn't what I asked for....
I am training for a marathon and my boyfriend scheduled a sports massage for me after my 20 mile run on Saturday (very last minute, so it was great they could fit me in).
When you arrive, you fill out paperwork, and one of the sheets you fill out asks if you would like to add integrative bodywork if the practitioner feels it would be beneficial. I chose to just have a massage for my first session mainly because I had already tormented my body enough and really wanted to relax. I have experienced multiple types of body work and felt like massage would benefit me the most on that particular day.
Bob would have been the ideal practitioner if it was any other day. He did a body assessment which was great, but it lasted for half of my hour-long session. Also, the massage was very deep-tissue, which I could not handle. He definitely should have asked what level of pressure I was comfortable with (this has been my experience with massage therapists in the past). I had to ask him to take it easy on my neck and shoulders. Once I mentioned something, he responded and it was fine, but by then, my hour was pretty much over.
So, I would like to go back to MTW for another appointment, but I am not sure if I will go back for a relaxing massage or focus on integrative body work. I know that different individuals have different focuses, so I will be sure to take the time to do my homework beforehand.
Feedback for MTW: If sports massage is not in the practitioner's repertoire, I would rather make an appointment for a later date rather than spend what I thought would be a relaxing hour being realigned. I was not in a space to receive bodywork, which I know through experience is an important part of the process. I will be back again, but only after more research on who I should see for what specialties.
I hope I can give a glowing review upon my return! -
Review from Tai F.
Medford, MA
2/8/2012
Just had an AMAZING massage from Mary at Massage Therapy Works - $29.99 for a half hour special so very reasonable. Went from super stressed to calm and happy in 30 minutes - very professional felt very looked after and great ambience too. Highly recommended.
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Review from Tony Z.
Boston, MA
9/26/2011
Now that I've had a few sessions with Rochele, I can tell you that she's amazing! She does a great job of listening to what your needs are and making the massage fit those needs. She's especially good at getting those tricky knots in your back that you never even knew existed.
Overall, I highly recommend her and MTW. The location is super convenient (right off of Davis Sq T stop) and the staff is always friendly. Be careful though using their online booking/payment system as I've tried it twice and had problems with it both times (had to call in to get it resolved). Hopefully this gets fixed soon, but other than this, an A++ experience. -
Review from Lindsay M.
Somerville, MA
12/16/2011
This place was great. My husband purchased a gift certificate for me for a 90-minute massage and I booked with Mary.
I had some trouble with the booking online (although the site is generally pretty great - lots of info and easily navigable - the payment portion is not great) so I called. The person who answered the phone was very helpful and friendly, and was able to get into the back end of the website to correct the payment mistake and get me registered for a massage.
Five minutes before my massage was scheduled to begin, I was running late. I called to let Mary know and she was extremely understanding. When I got there, she still told me she planned to do the 90 minute massage. I protested, telling her that I didn't want to take any extra time for her, but she insisted.
Before she began, Mary sat with me for a few minutes, asking me about what I did for work, how much I exercised, what i ate, etc. She was very thoughtful about how she approached the appointment and me personally.
Three weeks later, Mary called my cell just to "check in" and let me know that MTW had moved upstairs to a bigger, more modern space (which is the only reason this has 4 stars instead of 5 - the space was kind of old and creepy).
I plan to go back in the next month, and I am confident I will have an equally gratifying experience. -
Review from Christopher M.
Somerville, MA
6/17/2011
It kind of pains me to write this, but I actually didn't enjoy my time here.
I got a gift certificate for my birthday for a 90 minute massage. When I went to schedule the appointment online, I noticed there were so many options and not all of them made sense "relaxing with extra pressure" "deep tissue, extra pressure" etc. . . Huh? So I signed up for something my gift certificate would cover. Upon entering though, I was asked to sign a waiver stating that I'd leave the type of massage up to my therapist and just pay for whatever he gave me. Normally, I'd refuse but it's my birthday and what's a few extra bucks. . . plus I was seeing the owner, you don't tip the owner. . it would all even out.
Alright, here's where my real issue begins. I had a tough time finding the place and got there a couple minutes late. . maybe five. My bad, sorry guys. I quickly filled out the forms and scurried into the room. it's now 10 minutes into my appointment time. The next 30 minutes ish was Richard talking to me and asking questions. I'm fine with that, but let's keep it brief and/or while I'm on the table and you're finding things wrong with me.
However, I assumed that a 90 minute massage was still going to be 90 minutes of, well, massage. It wasn't. I finally got on the table 40 minutes into the appointment and got a 50 minute massage. The massage itself was good, however I have an interesting "affliction" When parts of my body start to relax through massage, they stop being numb and start to hurt more. In this case I had a splitting headache on the table, I told him about it and he felt around for a second and said "well we don't have time"
Now here's the kicker:
When I got rung up I was charged for 90 minutes of addons, so I spent $50 out of pocket plus the full amount of a 90 minute massage . . .for a 50 minute massage that left me with a splitting headache.
I'm giving one extra star because the work that was done was top-notch. . . still. I'm not happy with the services provided. -
Review from Elizabeth B.
Brookline, MA
6/11/2011
I arrived limping, left limping in different places. Several hours later, I was walking without any pain whatsoever. My acute problem was healed within hours.
Richard, like any true healer, knew my injuries and which muscles were paying for them, my tension spots, my posture tendencies, and my path to recovery. He refused to use the word "damage." He said he could fix me, and started the (very painful) healing process.
But the bummer was that the next visit, and the next, he forgot who I was, and my problems, so each time I saw him was starting from square one again. No progress was being made, so I had to stop going (my wallet thanks me, but my muscles are a little gloomy).Listed in: Beautiful As You Feel
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Review from Suzanne S.
Watertown, MA
Updated - 10/28/2011
Loretta at Massage Therapy Works is really amazing, a genius with muscles. She massages horses as well as people, and with a lot of runners, so you know she can work with dense muscles! I have come for several massages now, both therapeutic massage and thai massage (love them both.) I always come out feeling great, but I also always learn something about my muscles and how to stretch better. I'm sure other therapists are probably good as well. It's a nice space, and they are moving upstairs so it is soon to be a much more spacious space. They have good specials on their website. I highly, highly recommend getting a massage here. It may seem expensive, but consider the overall benefits to your health and well-being. It's actually a lot less expensive than paying for things like back surgery etc. You can set up appointments and pay online.
Listed in: Davis and Teele Square, my…, Basics of life
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/10/2011
I just had an incredible massage with Loretta at MTW. I have been looking for a masseuse for three… Read more »
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Review from Lena W.
4/28/2011
I feel like melted butter. It's not a usual feeling for me -- usually, if I continue this butter analogy, I'd be stick butter, stiff and fresh from the fridge. When I'm stressed out, my shoulders tense up. And, after four years of college and, now, graduate school, I'd basically accepted that my shoulders would always be tense.
But Jared proved me wrong. He was patient and helped talk me through the reasons for my constant shoulder pain, and worked absolute magic on my back, neck, and shoulders. Amazing. I now have movement in my arms that I haven't felt in a really long time. He seems to have a really thorough knowledge of what he's doing, which made me feel (literally) like I was in good hands.
I'm a frequent massage-goer and I've been to some of the best places in the Bay Area/Singapore and few were able to induce this melted butter feeling that I have right now. Unfortunately, I'm not based in Boston. But, if I were, I'd be back here all the time! -
Review from John P.
Cambridge, MA
4/11/2011
I discovered this place through a Yelp offer in 2010. Then, like an idiot, I waited a year between follow-ups. As if $70 for instant relief and wellness would be better spent somewhere else.
The space is very well-appointed: indirect lighting, gentle warmth, a light hint of some tranquil aroma but nothing too heavy. It's a little small but feels cozy instead of cramped. My first time here, the therapist had a little difficulty squeezing between the table and my feet (I'm 6'5") (... ladies). But this is a problem I'd face almost anywhere.
Not only have the massages been fantastic, but each time the therapist has offered some insightful feedback afterward. The first time, Susannah M. recommended some stretches to loosen up my hamstrings. The most recent time, Cara P. told me about the different places that she'd applied extra pressure. It's this attention to detail that bumps it from 4 stars to 5 for me. It convinces me that they're really paying attention to my needs, rather than going through a routine.
Protip: fork over a little extra to get the Therapeutic Massage instead of the Stress Relief Massage. Tell them what's stiff or sore. Trust me, the extra $10 to $20 will not be wasted. -
Review from Brita F.
Wakefield, MA
2/2/2011
This was a particularly difficult review to write. On the one hand, the MTW staff is really nice, affordable, and got me a last minute appointment when I was really hurting. So kudos for that.
On the other hand, my massage was really average. This is probably an excellent place for either massage newbies, or someone just looking for a light, relaxing massage. I, however, came here looking to get some serious knots worked on.
I guess there was some miscommunication, because I made an appt for a Thai Bodywork session, but when I arrived I was scheduled for a Theraputic massage. My masseur, Loretta, offered to incorporate some Thai techniques, which was appreciated, but for an additional $10. I'm not going to complain about an extra ten bucks, but I find the add-on marketing technique tacky and tasteless-- just call it a $90 massage, not $80 plus ten for extras.
Anyway, while it was by no means a bad massage, and some of my kinks were worked out, my main problem area that I went in to get worked on in the first place didn't feel improved at all.
I will consider coming back here for maintenance massages, but when a deep, intense session is required, I'll look elsewhere. -
Review from Giulia D.
Lexington, MA
6/6/2011
This place is great. I showed up a couple minutes late and still had to fill out paperwork, so all in all the massage ended up starting about 15 minutes later than scheduled. Cara didn't even mention it, and adjusted the time so that I'd still have the full hour I paid for.
The place is really small and cozy, and the atmosphere is quiet and peaceful. I felt really comfortable, and Cara was very sweet. I paid extra for deep pressure and definitely got what I paid for. While she was working on my upper back, my arms went almost completely numb. Kind of scary, kind of awesome.
Also - the online appointment scheduling is great. I scheduled my massage at like 10:30pm the night before, and got an appointment for the next morning at 11, no problem. -
Review from amy s.
Somerville, MA
12/5/2010
I've had three different therapists work on my knotted bod. All of the massages were quite good, but I think I've finally landed on a favorite therapist... Kris Quinones.
Part yogi and part massage therapist, Kris always finds the source of my pain and helps scatter it. She's especially good at working on my hips and sacrum. I limp in and glide out. It's pretty incredible.
Plus, the online appt booking system is awesome for those of us who love the internet a little too much. -
Review from Michelle P.
Washington, DC
11/6/2010
Ok, I'll admit it, I was turned off by the logo. That's my big reason for never going to Massage Therapy Works. Well, that and I rarely shell out money for a massage that may or may not be worth it. I've just had too many so-so massages through the years.
Anyway, don't let the name or logo fool you. The inside of this place felt very warm and inviting with an yogic flair. Bob didn't just rub my back, he used a few different modalities and really sought out the areas that needed attention. Plus they had a fabulous face-down support for pregnancy, which I was grateful for.
I've paid more for much less. I'll be back. -
Review from Dana B.
Somerville, MA
8/12/2010
On a whim, I went looking for a new massage place. Not that there was anything wrong with other places I had been, but I was looking to try something new.
I came across MTW on yelp and the 90+ 5 stars reviews reeled me in. I took a look at their website and was impressed with the fact that the schedule was posted online, they had photos/bios of their employees, and a list of various massage services all reasonably priced. It was really the option of "extra pressure" that impressed me. I knew I needed it.
I called for an appt and was able to schedule one with Buki for the next day. When I arrived, the staff was friendly and I filled out the requesite paperwork. I liked that you were given the option of approving extra pressure before the massage started. It was stated as such that if the masseus (i cant spell) felt as though you needed it, you were giving them permission. That way you weren't interrupted during the massage. Love it!
Buki and I talked about my jobs, aches and pains, etc. I could tell that she was really listening and concocting the best course of action to deal with my weak and pain riddled muscles.
The massage itself was amazing. Five minute in I knew that she was going to be my new massage therapist. The pressure was perfect and she hit just the right places. Afterwards she was able to tell me excerises that I could do to help strengthen certain areas. She alsowas able to tell me where I need to work on developing stronger muscles to help alleviate some of the pain that i was having. I was overly impressed with her. She was phenominal.
Days later and I still feel relaxed and pain free. I will absolutely see Buki next time my body cries out. -
Review from Tech L.
Boston, MA
1/5/2011
I visited MTW on a sort-of whim -- I decided that I deserved a massage before returning to work in the new year, so I booked an appointment online.
First off, I can't express how much I love when businesses offer this feature - I appreciate the opportunity to scope out my options, read staff bios, and select a female therapist. 10 points for MTW.
I booked the $49 weekday AM special with Cara, whose profile suggested she somehow manages to be a gentle, calming soul (reiki certified) with hands that could wield iron (practices bodywork on horses). She's fairly quiet but seemed really in tune with what my body needed; I feared that she'd only get through my back because of a history of problems there, but she was able to do a full-body with the perfect balance of tension release and relaxation massage. Like most other Cara clients here, I was Gumby-like and had trouble speaking in full sentences by the time I checked out from the appointment.
She is just so damn nice. And the massage tables are heated! Yesss. -
Review from Kaitlin A.
Cambridge, MA
1/17/2011
I came here after a running injury on the recommendation of a good friend. I saw Loretta, who worked through the tightness in my right leg. She was quite knowledgeable on running injuries and problem areas in runners, so she was able to find the root of my soreness. Although I unfortunately found out later that I had a bone injury that massage can't fix, I still have confidence that she could help treat any muscular related injury.
Although regular massages can get pricy, I plan to come back and try the $49 weekday special.
The online appointment booking system is great. I think they just launched it and it has some minor issues right now, but it is a great resource to find out about the different types of massages and different therapists that are available. -
Review from Alyssa J P.
Brighton, MA
11/10/2010
I was not really sure what to expect here, as generally I get more relaxing massages, and this one was all business. I still got the soothing music, but interacted a lot more with the therapist who wanted to help fix my leg up and had questions and advice for me.
Really, I liked Massage Therapy Works, but the price turns me off (I'm just cheap, it's not *that* expensive) and it's so hard to get to Davis from Brighton that I probably won't go back. -
Review from Vanessa A.
Quincy, MA
12/22/2010
I really enjoyed my experience with Cara. She was quiet while doing the massage with is great because I wanted to relax. She knows how much pressure to use and she is very thorough.
I enjoyed it very much. I will probably come again.
Service: Relaxing Massage $70 -
Review from Michelle K.
Naperville, IL
4/17/2010
My boyfriend is a freakin' genius for getting me a gift certificate for a one-hour massage. Most relaxing Christmas present ever. Yeah, I saved a gift certificate for like four months. I wanted to wait until THE DAY I NEEDED IT MOST. Today was that day - I was stressed, it was rainy, some douchebag parked too close to my driveway, you get the idea. It was time.
I've never had a professional massage before, so I came in not having any idea of what to do (am I wearing clothes? do I have to make chitchat with the masseuse? Answers: No and No). My appointment was with Cara, and she was very sweet and gave a loooooovely full body massage. Seriously, her hands might be magic, and I left feeling loose, relaxed, and refreshed. Sure, it was still rainy, and that car was still parked way too close, but after that massage I was able to take a deep breath, open an umbrella, and get that motherfucker towed.
So this is what serenity feels like.Listed in: Five-Star Rock Stars, Medfuhd/Somuhville
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Review from Melissa M.
Medford, MA
Updated - 5/27/2010 6 Check-ins Here
I am friends with MTW on facebook and saw that today they were running a deal of 20% off a therapeutic massage! Well, if you know me, you know that I love massages. I went to MTW tonight and had another fabulous massage done by Buki. She has such wonderful multi-faceted techniques.
I feel AMAZING.
Can't wait to go back!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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5/4/2010
I am so lucky to have found Massage Therapy Works on Yelp! My first appointment was in April, a few… Read more »
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Review from Susie C.
Cambridge, MA
9/27/2010
I have had many mediocre massages in the Boston area, but I have finally found my go-to spot for undoing the damage I inflict on my body as a result of an active lifestyle.
I booked one of the advertised specials ($49 for a 40 minute theraputic massage) with Loretta. She was the only one available in the time slot I needed, which worked out for me because I liked her bio - she cycles, rides horses, loves dogs - all things I love. It turns out she does equine massage, so believe me when I say she is strong. The whole session was incredible from start to finish - we talked in the beginning about what was bothering me (my right lat, hamstrings, some neck tension) and she spent the entire 40 minutes working the kinks and lactic acid and PAIN out of each area and even incorporated some intergative techniques. it felt much longer than 40 minutes. She explained to me what she was doing and pointed out key areas of tension, all in a soothing voice.
I have since been back for a thai yoga massage with her, and it was outstanding. Really, really top quality.
Other pros about this place:
- You can book online
- It is in the heart of Davis Square, easy to get to
- The waiting room is blissful
- They have some great specials available
- They offer a wide variety of body work so you can experiment until you find the kind that works best for you. I'm a convert to the Intergrative style, based on those bonus moves she threw in for free. -
Review from Kristen F.
Boston, MA
8/5/2010
My friend and I came here for her bday this past weekend. We knew nothing about it - only that it got great Yelp reviews. We trusted you fellow yelpers and I'm glad we did!
It's super easy to book an appointment with their online scheduling. You get an e-reminder the day before as well. Simple scheduling is a total plus.
The specials really are a great deal. $49 for 45 minutes, you really can't go wrong. And we didn't!
First you talk to your masseuse about what brings you in, sore muscles, etc. She assesses what would be best to work on, and then you get started.
Natalia was great. She worked on my upper body and got all the knots in my back out (there were a lot!) I was completely comfortable the whole time and so relaxed, I could have snoozed on the table for hours.
The 45 minutes flew by and I felt great afterwards.
This is a place I'd definitely come back to - it's totally worth it! -
Review from Kendra S.
Chattanooga, TN
6/19/2007
This was the strangest massage I have ever had. And probably the most expensive.
My tall order: a deep tissue massage. Please note: have certain condition that masseuse would need to be mindful of in therapy.
I had used their online booking system which is a wonderful thing day-of when you just need a stranger to dig his hands into your back so that you can feel better.
Bob, the massage therapist, greeted me at the door. The other practitioner was very kind, as well. The office was clean and very zen.
We were off to a good start.
Then, we entered the room with the table. A very ugly black floral sheet set from the '80s awaited me. I'm not usually a snob about this - if you had '80s sheets on your bed, I would totally sleep in it - but it struck me that this was a business. Therefore, I expected something more modern and less gaudy, n'ah mean?
There was no music playing in the room. There was nothing to make me feel at home. Bob talked to me about my condition and preference, and then it was time to strip down and get situated.
Then, my worst fears in surrendering my body face down to a stranger were realized. Bob talked to me throughout the entire massage. Not without a few minutes of silent interludes. But the chatter was pretty much continuous.
For some reason, I thought this was a rule of thumb. Don't talk to your client when they're naked and face down on a table. Evidently not, b/c Bob wanted to talk about all of my physical ailments right then and there. His methodology did not relax me. It didn't hurt me, and he was mindful of that, but I was not for a fleeting moment ever teetering on that lovely nearly comatose state of relaxation.
Even after an hour, the massage didn't feel complete. One of my arms was barely touched and the shoulder work was pretty paltry. This clinic has you sign a declaration before treatment that says whether or not you will allow the massage therapist to keep going with the massage after the allotted hour - whatever the charge may be - if an hour is not sufficient to treat your particular problem(s). I had never seen a kind of release like this before. It seemed practical at the time, but then I got to thinking...I've had many, many massages. All of them an hour. All of them very adequate. It seems to me that this clinic is all about the benjamins, which substantiates why I do not plan to return anytime soon. -
Review from Abigail T.
Somerville, MA
5/23/2008
I've heard a lot of mixed reviews such as weird 70s decor and ugly sheets but when I went there for a massage I didn't encounter any of that. It looks like they've had an update or two since 07. First of all the sheets they had were gorgeous soft cream sheets that felt like silk on my skin. The decor was very zen to me, lots of paintings and photographs of natural wonders. Sure it's a small place, but the layout feels more cozy than cramped. Two of the massage rooms have skylights all along the ceilings, there's nothing like getting a massage in the sunlight, and the temperature is always warm and welcoming.
The massage I had was wonderful and peaceful, which is exactly what I needed after a long plane ride. The therapists there are warm, diverse, always friendly and very well educated in the healing arts. I left there smelling of lavender oil and feeling as relaxed as can be. The location is really great too. Poor Little Rich Girl and Diesel Cafe are right next door so when you are done with your massage you can wake yourself back up with some thrift store shopping and hot tea! -
Review from Rinn S.
Seattle, WA
4/10/2007
I've had a lot of massages at places all over this fine metropolis, so I feel qualified to judge both people and places. I've been going to MTW for about 2 years and I love it! My super favorite massage therapist left last summer, but I'm determined to find a new person there because they are just so much better and cheaper than other places.
This is not the place to go if you're looking for a froo-froo spa experience. That's what Newbury St. is for. MTW is small and comfortable, but no-frills. But if you're looking for serious quality and people who are really experienced, educated, and passionate about their work, then this is the place to go in the Boston area!
MTW has a wide range of services including therapeutic massage, prenatal and sports massage, myotherapy, craniosacral, shiatsu, and even accupunture! One stop body-work shopping!
And a word on pricing- currently MTW charges $80 for an hour theraputic massage. Places downtown usually charge at least $90 for 50 minutes and one (it rhymes with bettabowl) actually charges $110 (WTF?)! And that doesn't take into account the cost and hassle of driving or finding parking downtown. MTW = much cheaper, much better quality -
Review from Richard F.
Medford, MA
4/12/2010
I make it a policy to visit someplace at least twice before Yelping, a policy which benefits MTW. My first visit was months ago and unremarkable; I met with a woman whose name I forget who gave a decent massage but did not impress me with her massage knowledge. [If I get a sports massage, I'm pretty unimpressed with people who are unfamiliar with foam rolling.] Anyway, the massage was fine but nothing spectacular, and I continued touring for a new place.
Fast forward to MTW's advertising a pre-marathon special and my willingness to give the place a second chance. Four sessions with Richard later and I can now say I truly know pain. I've run multiple marathons, participated in truly epic bike rides, hiked mountains and canyons. But nothing hurts as much as Richard leaning a tenth of his bodyweight on a tight tendon or his elbow on my quads. As other reviewers have noted, though, it's a wonder drug that is worth the pain price.
Plusses: online reservations, frequent specials, knowledgeable staff, respect for clients.
You won't regret giving them a chance. -
Review from Rebecca D.
Framingham, MA
7/10/2007
Although they experienced different things while at MTW, I would say that both Kendra & Rinn's reviews paint a good picture of this place.
The prices are...well, pretty much what you would expect. The decor is...very much stuck in the late 70s.
What is important to note is this: The vibe is definitely more 'therapy' and not at all 'spa/relax' type of deal. They will talk to you during your time...explaining what they are doing, stretches & exercises you can do to loosen up more, etc. If you are looking for that, this place is great. If you just want to relax & get a soothing rub...you *will* be disappointed.
I'll definitely go back here, perhaps after some extra hard training or my first triathlon...just not when I want to indulge after a stressful week at work. -
Review from Kelly G.
Somerville, MA
3/31/2010
I always forget to go get massages until I can't move something...at all....like my neck..or my whole back...just as an example.
Kris at MTW has remobilized me on more than one occasion. She's like the oooiiil caaaan to my tin man and I'm so glad to have found her.
She's thorough, personable, and I get the impression that she matches her level of chatty to your level of chatty as best she can...I'm kinda chatty.
I like her electro-chant combo music, the heated table pad, and (although I know she can't take credit for the architecture) the curtained skylights overhead. It's a great atmosphere in which to have my muscles cajoled, begged, and otherwise coaxed out of whatever funk they happen to presently be in. If I weren't in so much pain, I'd probably just fall right asleep.
They're a little pricier than your average rub-down-joint but they have always made it worth my while! -
Review from Alex C.
Boston, MA
3/23/2011
After receiving a mediocre massage from Jared (having more to do with my preferences and not speaking up, rather than his skills), I gave this place a second go of things and really enjoyed my massage from Cara. Like other reviews have said, I think you just have to shop around the staff a bit until you find someone you like.
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Review from Jen F.
Somerville, MA
9/25/2010
I had my first massage here last week. What a great experience.
First of all, the setting; I found the environment very tranquil. Although the office itself is small, it is also calm and quiet. While it is located in the heart of Davis Square, the staff does its best to make you feel like you are in the middle of nowhere (in a good way...I do love Davis, but would rather receive a massage somewhere peaceful than on the corner of Elm Street).
My masseuse was Cara, who was excellent. She really seemed to care about my concerns re: extreme tension in my shoulders and neck. Although I checked off that she had my permission to upgrade the service to whatever she saw fit, she kept me at the $80 therapeutic massage, which impressed me. I immediately felt the benefits of this style of massage and didn't at all feel taken advantage of. Cara was also very kind and knowledgeable. I would recommend her with the utmost confidence to anyone in need of some real tension relief.
Again, five stars. If you are interested in taking an hour out of your day to do something good for yourself, I suggest that you start here! -
Review from Barry B.
Somerville, MA
Updated - 1/7/2010
Something weird just happened to me.
About 20 minutes after my most recent appointment, I sneezed... and it didn't hurt! I haven't had a pain-free sneeze in about a decade.
Thank you, Jared!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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12/21/2009
Between being on my feet for 8 to 12 hours a day, leaning over a lot, carrying heavy items, and… Read more »
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Review from Brian S P.
Somerville, MA
8/15/2007
This is a great place to get a massage. They have a diverse number of massage therapists that have different specialties and techniques. Each therapist is not created equal. I found the massage therapists will tell the client which therapist is better for their particular needs (ie. deep tissue). I found that the therapists will only talk to the client if the client initiates. I have not had experience with all the therapists there, but none of them were talkative unless I initiated the talking.
The waiting room is small, but functional. The various rooms are different from each other, but the common thread is the feeling of zen, and most of the time music is playing softly throughout the studio. The music depends on who is working.
This is not a day spa, so they do not pamper like one. However, for a good massage to relax and release the tensions from work and the outside world, this place cannot be beat. -
Review from alison k.
11/23/2009
Went for deep-tissue massage on Friday and was very impressed. I got the deal currently advertised and though it didn't specifically stipulate that deep tissue massage was included, Jared said he would include it for me as he is relatively new and didn't want to charge full whack for something he was not quite as experienced at.
I went in with a really painful left hip, however once the massage was underway, it was apparent that my sacrem (sp?! )and ITB was also really really tight as were my calves and the sides of my shins. Suffice it to say it was not the most painless massage ever, but that is exactly as to be expected when having deep tissue massage and it was way less painful than some I have had! Jared listened to when it was becoming too sore and was careful not to overwork the muscles, this resulted in very little residual pain the next day and no bruising whatsoever.
We did run over quite a bit, but I guess that we both underestimated how much work needed done and also with Jared being less experienced meant that he was a bit less quick. He was however, really cool about it and wasn't going to charge me. Instead, I asked him to finish off the rest of the second hour and paid him for both hours - he had put in such a good job and the rate was so reasonable that I was happy to continue the second hour for him to work a bit on my back and shoulders.
All in all a great experience - I would certainly go back there again and would have no hesitation in asking for Jared. I possibly would also like to try some of the more experienced massage therapists who might have more techniques and ideas, but I cannot fault the service I had on Friday - a definite place to try when you ache all over!Listed in: Keep young and beautiful....
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Review from Liam H.
Cambridge, MA
9/12/2009
The bodywork is authentic and excellent. I ran a triathlon the day after the session and felt like Superman. The office staff is professional and courteous. The price was high relative to some discount specials at school or other conglomerate massage therapy centers. Still, I would definitely return and would recommend the business to friends.
I've been back a second time and been equally impressed. This is the place to go! -
Review from ben T.
Boston, MA
7/6/2011
got gift certificate from my birthday...but i think i want my cash back or somehting. cuz i don't even notice the massage time is already up... i think the massage i got is not even worth it...
Comment from Richard G. of Massage Therapy Works 7/12/2011
It is very rare to hear any negative feedback. But when it… More » -
Review from Mark S.
Belmont, MA
11/23/2009
I am EXTREMELLY happy with this place. With a history of neck and back problems that are muscle related, and playing ice hockey numerous times a week, I decided that if I didnt start to get help for it soon, it would only get worse. I decided to take advantage of a good deal they had if you tried out one of their new therapists.
Jared was really really good. He applied a good amount of pressure and was able to find the problem spots and take care of them. He spoke only when he needed to explain something but was also completely willing to talk when I wanted to. It was extremely reasonably priced and very convenient. The place had a very calm and soothing feel to it as well.
I am excited to go back. -
Review from Shelly F.
Suffolk, MA
3/28/2011
Cara did an amazing job!!!! She targeted the right spots on my back and she also gave me helpful tips on how to stretch my back muscles at home! I will definitely be back!! I wish I could come one a weekly basis :) If you want to experience a good massage, ask for Cara!!!
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Review from Kendra D.
Somerville, MA
9/11/2011
I have been to MTW 4 times and have had a positive experience every time. The massage therapists are always very attentive to my needs and it is always a pleasant experience. Easy to get an appointment and never worried about who the therapist is. Last time I had Bob and it was a wonderful massage. Stefanie, Richard, and Buki have all been great as well! Will be booking my next one soon :)
