Massage therapy at Valley Chiropractic Center is a clinical service, not just a treat. It addresses the muscle and soft-tissue side of pain and stiffness, and it is offered both on its own and as a complement to chiropractic care at our Tracy, Manteca, and Ripon offices.
What massage therapy involves
Massage works on muscles and connective tissue to release tension, improve circulation, and reduce soreness. Where a chiropractic adjustment focuses on joint motion, massage focuses on the tissue around those joints. The two address different layers of the same problem, which is why many patients use them together.
Sessions are offered in 60-minute and 90-minute lengths. Your therapist will ask what you want to get out of the session, which areas are bothering you, and how much pressure you prefer, then tailor the work to that. Expectant mothers can book a dedicated prenatal massage at our Tracy and Manteca offices.
Who may benefit
Patients book massage for a variety of reasons, including:
- Tight, sore muscles in the neck, shoulders, and back
- Recovery from a sports injury or repetitive strain
- Muscle tension that lingers between chiropractic visits
- Stress, poor sleep, and general tightness from long commutes or desk work
- Pregnancy-related discomfort, through our prenatal massage service
Massage is not the right first step for everyone. If your pain is sharp, shooting, or travels down an arm or leg, a chiropractic exam first can help find the cause before soft-tissue work begins. Our chiropractor vs. massage FAQ walks through how to choose.
What to expect at your appointment
Your first session begins with a brief conversation about your health history, any current injuries or conditions, and the areas you would like the therapist to focus on or avoid. Your therapist will confirm your goals for the session and answer any questions before starting.
During the session, pressure is adjusted to your comfort. You are always welcome to ask for more or less, or to let the therapist know if anything feels wrong. Afterward, mild soreness for a day or so is common, especially after deeper work. Drinking water and moving gently usually helps.
How we approach massage
Massage is part of the same team as our chiropractic care, so your therapist and your doctor can coordinate when you use both. Dr. Joseph Russell, one of the practice’s co-owners, practiced as a licensed massage therapist for more than ten years before becoming a chiropractor, and that soft-tissue perspective runs through how the practice thinks about care. You can read more on his profile.
Whether massage comes before or after an adjustment, or stands alone, the aim is the same: address what the tissue needs rather than following a routine.
Where massage is offered
Prenatal massage is available at Tracy and Manteca. Our Mountain House office does not currently offer massage therapy.
Pricing and payment
Massage therapy is a self-pay service and is not billed to health insurance, because none of our massage therapists are in-network with insurance plans. Rates are the same at every office that offers massage:
- 60-minute session: $85
- 90-minute session: $120
HSA and FSA cards are accepted. See our Payment Options page or the pricing FAQ for details on chiropractic rates and insurance.
Ready to book?
Book your session online using the buttons on this page, or call the Tracy, Manteca, or Ripon office directly. If you have questions first, send us a request and our team will follow up with you.
Ready to book a Massage Therapy appointment?
