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Massage Therapy
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Your body isn’t a template, and your massage shouldn’t be either. Some people walk in with one stubborn knot. Others just need an hour where nobody needs anything from them. Both are welcome here.
At Hand in Health Massage Therapy, every session starts with you. Our therapists build each treatment around your needs, your lifestyle and your goals. We’re here to help you move better and feel better.
We’re a locally owned practice in Syracuse, NY, and we’ve been here since 2011. Our team includes dozens of licensed providers, and we welcome patients from across Central New York. We’ve been named Best Massage in CNY, a local award we’ve won consistently. Patients have also left us over 2,000 5-star reviews. We take that as a sign we’re doing something right.
Downtown Syracuse
North Syracuse
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Massage Services
Let us create a unique massage that will help you feel better and live better.
Therapeutic Massage
If you’re not sure what to book, therapeutic massage is the easy answer. It’s our most customized treatment in Syracuse. Your therapist blends relaxing and targeted techniques based on what your body needs that day. It’s the massage we recommend for most patients.
What is therapeutic massage? It’s a customized massage that mixes several techniques in one session. Your therapist may use relaxing Swedish strokes and firm pressure on targeted areas. Trigger point therapy works on tight, tender knots. Myofascial release works on fascia, the connective tissue around your muscles. Orthopedic techniques and stretching can round it out.
Patients often come to us with back and neck tension. Tell your therapist where you feel it, and they can spend more of the session there. You can also ask for lighter or firmer pressure at any point.
How is it different from deep tissue? Therapeutic massage mixes lighter and firmer work. Deep tissue sticks with slow, deep pressure.
Sessions run 30, 45, 60, 75, 90 or 120 minutes. Sixty minutes is the most popular choice. It leaves enough time for a full-body massage.
Deep Tissue Massage
Some knots laugh at a gentle rub, and that’s where deep tissue massage comes in. In Syracuse, it’s our go-to for the knots that moved in and started paying rent. If you like firm pressure, this is your session.
What is deep tissue massage? Your therapist uses slow, deep strokes across the grain of the muscle. The work reaches the muscles and connective tissue below the surface. Patients often come to us with back and neck tension that a lighter massage can’t reach.
How is it different from therapeutic massage? Therapeutic massage blends lighter and firmer techniques. Deep tissue stays focused on slow, deep pressure.
Will it hurt? It doesn’t have to hurt to work. Tender spots may feel like a “good hurt” as the tension lets go. Your therapist always adjusts pressure to your comfort, so speak up anytime.
Will I be sore afterward? Sometimes, but not always. Some patients feel mild soreness for 1 to 2 days afterward. Many find that extra water and light stretching feel good after a session.
Sessions run 30, 45, 60, 75, 90 or 120 minutes.
Learn more: How deep is too deep?
Sports Massage
You don’t need a jersey to book a sports massage. You just need a body that works hard. Sports massage in Syracuse is built for people with active lifestyles. That includes runners, lifters and anyone who trains for fun.
Who is sports massage for? It’s for athletes and anyone who stays active. Patients often come to us with training soreness. Your therapist draws on a variety of massage techniques to match your sport and your goals.
Does sports massage include stretching? It can. Your session may include a few kinds of assisted stretching:
- Active isolated stretching. You move into each stretch yourself for a short hold.
- Muscle energy techniques. You gently push against your therapist’s resistance.
- Pin and stretch. Your therapist holds a spot while you move the muscle.
Should I book before or after training? Either one. Pre-event work and post-training recovery use different techniques. We customize each session to where you are in your training. Tell your therapist about your sport and any spots that feel tight.
Sessions run 30, 45, 60, 75, 90 or 120 minutes.
Pregnancy (Prenatal) Massage
Growing a whole person is hard work, and prenatal massage gives your body a break. Prenatal massage in Syracuse focuses on the special needs of expecting patients. Your therapist shapes every part of the session around your comfort.
We offer prenatal massage in all three trimesters.
Is prenatal massage safe? The key is choosing a therapist skilled in prenatal massage. Share any health concerns at your intake before the session starts. If you’re under a doctor’s or midwife’s care, we’re happy to work with them, but a referral isn’t required.
How will I be positioned? Specially designed pillows and cushions support your body. Side-lying positions keep you comfortable, so you aren’t lying on your belly.
What does it feel like? Most expecting patients simply enjoy the chance to rest, settle in and recharge. Lighting, music and room temperature can all be adjusted to suit you.
Pregnancy massage sessions run 30, 45, 60, 75, 90 or 120 minutes. Let your therapist know if you need a break to shift positions.
Medical Massage
When a doctor has named the problem, medical massage gives your session a plan too. Medical massage in Syracuse is for patients whose muscle or joint issue already has a diagnosis. Your therapist works with that diagnosis in mind.
What is medical massage? Medical massage uses a range of techniques chosen around muscle and skeletal issues diagnosed by a doctor. It’s a planned, goal-focused session rather than a general massage. Patients often come to us with sciatica, frozen shoulder, tendonitis or plantar fasciitis.
Do I need a prescription? Not to book. If you plan to seek insurance reimbursement, your plan may require a physician’s authorization, so check with your insurance company first.
What happens at the first visit? Your therapist will ask about your diagnosis, your health history and your goals. They may do some simple assessments to understand what’s going on. Then they build a session around it. Your treatment takes place in a private room, and you can ask questions at any time.
Sessions run 30, 45, 60, 75, 90 or 120 minutes.
Couples Massage
A couples massage turns an anniversary, a birthday or a random Tuesday into a shared break. Couples massage in Syracuse lets two people relax side by side.
Do we have to be a couple? No. Any two people can book it, whether you’re partners, friends or family.
How does a couples massage work? Two people get a massage at the same time, in the same private room. You each have your own massage table and your own massage therapist. The two therapists start at the same time and coordinate the treatment from there.
It’s a shared experience. You get the care of a full massage, plus some quiet time together. Talk if you like, or don’t. Plenty of people just close their eyes.
How long is a couples massage? You can book 60 or 90 minutes.
Each of you can tell your own therapist what you need. One of you can ask for lighter pressure while the other goes firmer. Nobody has to compromise.
Lymphatic Cupping for the Head, Neck and Shoulders
Lymphatic cupping is small cups, light touch and one big exhale. This short session is all about your head, neck and shoulders.
What is lymphatic facial cupping? It’s a gentle session for your head, face, neck and shoulders. Your therapist combines light manual strokes with small facial cups. Your therapist adjusts the work to your comfort. The aim is to gently move lymph, the clear fluid your lymphatic system carries through your body.
Who is it for? Patients often come to us with sinus pressure or headaches. Tell your therapist what you’re feeling before the session starts.
What does it feel like? The work is light and gentle, so it’s not a deep tissue session. Many people find it calm and soothing. Lighting, music and temperature can be adjusted to suit you.
How long is the session? Lymphatic cupping in Syracuse is a 30-minute treatment. That makes it easy to fit into a busy day.
Lymphatic Drainage Massage (MLD) and Post-Op Lymphatic Care
Lymphatic drainage massage proves that not every massage needs to go deep. Some of the best work is the lightest. It uses a soft touch with a clear purpose.
What is lymphatic drainage massage? Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is a light, gentle hands-on technique. It helps direct lymph fluid toward your lymph nodes. Lymph nodes are small glands that filter that fluid.
Does it hurt? No. MLD is light and gentle by design. Most people find it deeply relaxing and soothing. If you’ve only had firm massage before, this lymphatic massage will feel very different.
Post-operative lymphatic drainage
This is a specialty service for people recovering from surgery, such as cosmetic or orthopedic procedures. Our certified therapists use the same light, gentle technique with extra care around your recovery. It may help you feel more comfortable while you heal. We prefer to work with your surgical team, but a referral isn’t required. Most patients start about 2 to 6 weeks after surgery. When you book online, you’ll only see therapists certified for this service.
Sessions run 30, 60, 90 or 120 minutes.
Myoskeletal Alignment
Myoskeletal alignment starts from a simple idea. Your neck and back don’t work alone. When one piece pulls, the rest notice.
What is myoskeletal alignment? It’s a hands-on technique based on how your muscles, ligaments and joints affect each other. Ligaments are the tough bands that connect bone to bone. The myoskeletal alignment technique focuses on the neck and back. Patients often come to us with neck and back pain or questions about their posture.
The goal is balance. Your therapist works to balance your head, neck, shoulders and pelvis. Part of that work is releasing the deep muscles along your spine.
What do I wear? Myoskeletal alignment is done fully clothed. Wear comfortable, loose gym-style clothes you can move in. If you’d prefer a clothed massage in Syracuse, this is a great option.
Your therapist may ask you to shift positions or move during the session. Ask questions anytime, and say so if you want more or less pressure.
Sessions run 30, 60, 90 or 120 minutes.
Maya Abdominal Massage
Maya abdominal massage is for the part of you that does a lot of quiet work. Your belly can hold a lot of tension too.
What is Maya abdominal massage? It’s a gentle, external massage of the abdomen using traditional techniques. You may also see it called Mayan abdominal therapy. The work focuses on the abdomen and pelvis.
Who is it for? Maya abdominal massage is offered for both men and women. It can help release tension you carry in your core. If you’re curious about gentle, focused abdominal work, it’s worth a try.
What does it feel like? Your therapist uses gentle, external hands-on work only. You stay draped, and only the area being worked on is uncovered. Share any health concerns or conditions at your intake before you start. Let your therapist know anytime if you want lighter pressure.
Sessions run 30, 60, 90 or 120 minutes.
Body Treatments
Body treatments are a thank-you note to the hands and feet that put in long hours.
What’s included? You get a 60- or 90-minute massage, plus a hand, foot and/or back scrub. A scrub exfoliates, which means it removes dead skin cells. It can also help reduce calluses. Meanwhile, the massage works to relieve muscle tension.
Which scrub scents can I choose? Pick from three options:
- Unscented
- Lavender
- Seasonal
How long is it? A body treatment runs 60 or 90 minutes. Choose the scrub area that fits you best. A foot scrub massage is a favorite after a long week on your feet. A massage with a body scrub is a nice way to reset, too.
If you have sensitive skin, tell your therapist before you start. Our oils, creams and lotions are hypoallergenic.
Reflexology
Yes, reflexology means we’ll be working on your feet. No, it’s not just a foot rub.
What is reflexology? Reflexology uses finger pressure on specific reflex points of the feet and hands. It’s a focused, quiet session that many people find relaxing.
Is reflexology just a foot massage? No. A foot massage works the muscles of the foot in general. Reflexology targets specific points on your feet and hands with focused pressure.
What does a session feel like? Expect steady, focused finger pressure. Tell your therapist anytime if you want more or less pressure. Many people just close their eyes and settle in.
Reflexology in Syracuse comes two ways. You can book it as its own session, from 30 to 120 minutes. You can also add it to another massage under “Enhance Your Massage.” Add-on reflexology needs extra time in your session.
Hot Stone Massage
Picture a gray January afternoon in Syracuse, then add a hot stone massage. Warm stones easing the tension out of your back. That’s the idea.
What is a hot stone massage? Your therapist uses smooth, heated stones to ease muscle tension. The stones help your therapist work deeper while you relax more deeply.
Who is it good for? Hot stone massage is a great pick if you love warmth and want real relaxation. It suits anyone who wants a slower, cozier session.
How long is it? A hot stone massage is a 90-minute session. That gives the warmth time to do its job.
Want just a little warmth with a different massage? You can add hot stones to another session as an add-on. Look for it under “Enhance Your Massage” when you book. Tell your therapist if the stones ever feel too warm.
Chair Massage
Chair massage means no changing, no oil and no fuss. It keeps things simple.
What is chair massage? You sit in a special massage chair. It has a downward-angled cradle for your face and supports for your arms. Your therapist focuses on your back, shoulders, neck, arms and hands. Those are the areas that tend to hold the most tension.
Do I undress? No. Chair massage is done over your clothes, with no massage oil. You can walk out and get right back to your day.
Where can I get one? You can book a chair massage here at our clinic. You can also book chair massage as an event for your office or group. For events, visit our corporate wellness page. Corporate chair massage in Syracuse is a simple way to give your team a reset.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I get a massage?
Most of our regular patients come in about once a month as part of their self-care routine. If you’re working on a specific problem, you may come more often for a while, then switch to a maintenance schedule. Many patients also add stretching or corrective exercise between visits. Your therapist can suggest a schedule once they understand your body better.
Which massage is right for me?
For most people, we recommend therapeutic massage. It blends several techniques and is customized to you. Still not sure? On your first visit, we’ll talk about your concerns and goals. Then we’ll recommend the services that fit you best.
How long a session should I book?
Sixty minutes is our most commonly booked length. It gives most therapists enough time for a full-body massage. Shorter sessions work best for one area, like your back, neck and shoulders or your hips, legs and feet. Longer sessions are best for several problem areas, more complicated conditions, or extra time to relax.
What should I wear for a massage?
For most massages, you undress to your level of comfort. Your therapist leaves the room while you get on the table. You stay covered by a sheet or blanket the whole time, and only the area being worked on is uncovered. Myoskeletal alignment and chair massage are different. Both are done fully clothed, so wear loose, comfortable clothes.
Is prenatal massage safe?
Yes. We offer prenatal massage in every trimester with therapists skilled in prenatal massage. Specially designed pillows, cushions and side-lying positions keep you supported and comfortable. Tell your therapist about any health concerns before you start. If you’re under a doctor’s or midwife’s care, we’re happy to work with them, but a referral isn’t required.
Where are you located?
We’re in Syracuse, NY. We welcome patients from across Central New York.
What should I expect at my first massage visit?
Your first visit starts with a short conversation about your goals, your health history and the areas you want worked on. Your therapist may do a few simple assessments. Then your massage takes place in a private room. Lighting, music and temperature can all be adjusted, and you can ask questions or change the pressure at any time.
How early should I arrive for my massage?
Plan to arrive about 5 minutes before your appointment. You can fill out your health history and intake forms online ahead of time, using the links in your confirmation and reminder emails. If you haven’t done them in advance, arrive about 10 minutes early so you have time to finish them before your session.
What is your cancellation policy?
We require 24 hours’ notice to cancel or reschedule an appointment. If you cancel with less than 24 hours’ notice, or miss your appointment, the full cost of the session is charged. If your plans change, let us know as early as you can and we’ll help you find a new time.
Do you take insurance, HSA or FSA for massage?
We accept HSA and FSA cards directly. We are out-of-network for most insurance plans and provide superbills on request so you can submit for reimbursement. If you plan to seek insurance reimbursement, your plan may require a physician’s authorization, so check with your insurance company first.
Can I get a same-day massage appointment?
Sometimes. Same-day appointments are rare, but they do open up when someone cancels at the last minute. When you book online, you can add yourself to our waitlist. We’ll send you a text or email when an opening comes up, and you can choose whether to accept it.
Do you sell massage gift cards?
Yes. You can buy gift cards online anytime. Our gift cards never expire. They can be used for any service, even if it isn’t the one printed on the certificate, and the full value applies to anything. That makes them an easy gift for anyone who could use some care.
Do you have a referral program?
Yes. Refer a friend through your Patient Portal, and you’ll both get a $20 credit toward wellness services. You’ll need to sign in to the Patient Portal to send your referral. It’s an easy way to share something that helps you feel better.
Can I choose my massage therapist?
Yes. You can pick your therapist when you book online. Each of our licensed massage therapists has different training, certifications and favorite techniques, and you can read their bios on our About Us page. If you’re not sure who fits your needs best, contact us and we’ll help match you with the right therapist.
Should I talk with my therapist or stay quiet during my treatment?
It’s completely up to you. Some patients like to chat the whole time, some prefer quiet, and others do a little of both. Your therapist will follow your lead. Either way, speak up anytime if you’d like a change to the temperature, lighting, music, pressure or technique.
Will a massage hurt, and what will it feel like?
A massage shouldn’t hurt. Most sessions start with broad, relaxing strokes, then pressure builds gradually on the areas that feel tight. Tender spots may feel like a “good hurt” as tension lets go. Your therapist always adjusts pressure to your comfort, so speak up anytime if you want lighter or firmer work.
What parts of my body will be massaged?
A typical full-body massage includes your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck and shoulders. Glutes and hips are often part of the session too. If you keep your underwear on, your therapist will usually work those areas over the sheet or blanket. Tell your therapist about any area you’d like them to skip or focus on.
Will the massage oils irritate my skin, and can I bring my own?
Our massage oils, creams and lotions are hypoallergenic, so irritation is uncommon. If you have sensitive skin or allergies, tell your therapist before your session starts. For the safety of our providers, we can’t use outside lotions, oils or topicals. We make exceptions only in special circumstances, such as an allergy.
How will I feel after my massage?
Most people feel very relaxed after a massage. Some patients feel mild soreness for 1 to 2 days, especially after deep tissue work. Many patients find that extra water and light stretching feel good afterward. If soreness lingers or something feels off, let your therapist know before your next visit.
Is massage therapy safe if I have a medical condition or injury?
In many cases, yes. Our therapists work with patients who have a wide range of conditions and adjust techniques as needed. If you have a specific injury, pain issue or medical concern, mention it when you book or at your intake. Your therapist can focus on the areas that need attention and suggest follow-up care.
Do I tip my massage therapist?
Tips are never expected, but they’re always appreciated. You can tip with cash or card. Referring a friend or leaving a review on Google or social media is another great way to say thanks. However you choose to show it, your therapist will truly appreciate it.
Is Hand in Health a good massage clinic in Syracuse, NY?
Yes. Hand in Health has been a locally owned massage practice in Syracuse, NY since 2011. Our team includes dozens of licensed providers. Patients have left us over 2,000 5-star reviews. We’ve also been named Best Massage in CNY, a local award we’ve won consistently.
Enhance Your Massage
Aromatherapy
Cupping
Theragun
Muscle Taping
Moist Heat Packs
Warm Towels
Reflexology
Hot Stones
Muscle Scraping
CBD
How do I book an add-on enhancement with my massage appointment?
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Downtown Syracuse
North Syracuse
Hand in Health Massage Therapy ﹣Downtown Syracuse
109 South Warren St. Ste 301
Syracuse New York 13202
(State Tower)
Contact
Phone: 315-937-5953
Write A Review
Hand in Health Massage Therapy ﹣ North Syracuse
7293 Buckley Rd, Suite 102
North Syracuse, NY 13212
Contact
Phone: 315-937-5954
Email: office@handinhealth.com
Write A Review
Business Hours
Monday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Thursday 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Saturday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
