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Does high-priced massage sessions mean high-quality work?


Prices for literally everything are high these days, but that doesn’t necessarily mean what you're paying for is high quality.


When it comes to massage and other bodywork (such as acupuncture, dry needling, chiropractic, physical therapies, etc), prices can be all over the scale.

In the Cleveland area, I’ve seen prices for 60-minute massage anywhere from $45 to $120. This isn't an anomaly, I've heard from friends in other states/cities who see similar trends.

So does this equate to a ‘you get what you pay for’ situation?


In my personal experience, sometimes but not always 🤔


Oftentimes, you’ll see the lower prices offered as first-time deals or Groupon’s or at franchises. Therapists or business offering first-time client discounts are just incentivizing you to come try them out. In other scenarios, the low pricing is because the business is banking on high-volume (such as at franchises), so you may not experience a very personalized session. On the other end of the scale, higher prices are seen for experienced, in-demand, or independent therapists or specialized clinics; and high-end spas, where your paying extra for the experience and ambiance.


I've personally more often had better luck finding a therapist that clicked for me at the slightly higher-priced massage clinics. Once in a while, I've experienced a 'good' massage therapist or bodywork professional with a discounted price-point; and at the same time have paid over $100 for a 60-minute session with a therapist that just seemed to be on autopilot and seemed to give no personalization.

Simply, do your homework. What are you looking to achieve; Are the therapists experienced; Is it a high volume place or will get get personalized sessions; etc.


Prices vary everywhere.


Make sure you are comfortable with the pricing for your budget and what you want to get out of the work.


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