"What is manual therapy?"

Manual therapy is the hands-on effect of soft-tissue mobilization to improve muscle and joint function. If muscle and joint dysfunction are the root, or side-effect, of a condition, then effective manual therapy can help to alleviate that condition and bring relief. We use our hands (massage) and other instruments to affect the soft-tissue. We are certified in massage therapy.

"How is this different from a regular massage?"

These sessions are not your “fluff-and-buff” massages which feel good, but generally are not targeted enough to have lasting effects. Here, we address the source of the pain rather than massage the symptoms. The goal is to provide therapy that will have you feeling better longer and to provide you with the tools and resources to sustain that improvement.

"Are you physical therapists?"

We are not physical therapists and do not provide physical therapy services. Therefore, we are unable diagnose and are unable to provide super bills for prescriptions that are written for physical therapy. Our credentials are for massage therapy and we are certified by the CAMTC, the California Massage Therapy Council.

"I am not an athlete, and I don’t play sports, but I have chronic pain. Can you help me?"

Being an athlete is not required for treatment here. All are welcome. If your goal is pain relief, we will do what we can to help you.

“I am in physical therapy. Would you be willing to collaborate and discuss my case with my physical therapist so I can receive the best treatment?”

Of course! We are always happy to personally hear from physicians and physical therapists who can provide us with details that will help us to help you. Please have them reach out to us via email.
admin@SantaMonicaSportsMassage.com

“How can I get my health insurance to pay for my sessions at SMSM?”

First, call your healthcare provider to ensure that your policy covers manual therapy when done by a manual/massage therapist. The policy should cover CPT codes: 97140 and 97112. Next, get a prescription for manual therapy from your physician. You will pay for the session here, we will give you a super bill, and you will submit that bill to your insurance for reimbursement. For more information, please click here.

“Can I exercise after my session at SMSM?”

Ideally, you will complete workouts, training sessions, and physical therapy appointments before your massage. Sessions at SMSM can involve a lot of soft tissue mobilization in which the body is working to adjust to, even after the session. The best way to maximize the results is to wait until the next day to work out.

"Can I book an appointment for my significant other?"

We understand that you would like to gift a massage to your partner. Due to scheduling conflicts that are likely to arise, please do not schedule an appointment for anyone other than yourself, especially as a surprise. Gift certificates are available for purchase. Please click the Schedule an Appointment button, and from there, select “Gift Certificates”.

"What forms of payment are accepted?"

All major credit cards are accepted forms of payment (as well as ApplePay). Exact cash is accepted. Checks are accepted from returning patients only.

Frequently Asked Questions