Acupuncture is an long-established medical health care system. Today acupuncture combines the traditions of its 5000 year-old history with more modern understanding of health and disease to provide safe, effective treatment for many health related problems including: pain relief, chronic and acute conditions, immune system boosting & illness prevention, blood pressure regulation, fertility problems, menopausal symptom relief, digestive distress, weight control & addiction control. Often acupuncture is used along with Chinese Herbal Medicine. Both acupuncture and Chinese herbs have been used safely and effectively for thousands of years.

Our Acupuncturist is Patricia Crawford, Lic.Ac.,M.Ac., Dipl. Ac.

Her office is located near Porter Square at:

117 Elm Street
Somerville, MA 02144
617 776 2020

• Patricia Crawford, M.Ac.

According to Ayurveda, one should "...never apply anything to the skin that is not edible, as it is the largest organ of absorption and elimination in the body..." (Cabot). In this classical Ayurvedic treatment, the body is dry brushed with raw silk then massaged with copious amounts of organic, herbal oils specific to your dosha imbalances. The healing properties of the oils nourish the deeper tissues of the body (i.e. bones, bone marrow, nerve tissue) and strengthens the immune system by stimulating antibody production and providing a protective shield around the body against negativity. Other benefits ares: alleviating fatigue from overworking, slowing the natural aging process, and improving restorative sleep. Great for when you're feeling distracted, anxious, or not sleeping well.

• Kris Quiñones

60 Mins. - $100.00
90 Mins. - $130.00

This treatment had a profound personal affect on Kris and is what made her decide to specialize in Ayurveda. For (30) thirty minutes, a warm steady stream of herbal oil is applied to your "third eye" (the space between your eyebrows on your forehead), which is associated with insight and consciousness. This powerful treatment works specifically on stabilizing the activity of the mind, balancing the left and right hemispheres of the brain. It will take you on a journey deep within and leave you with a heightened states of awareness and long-lasting sense of peace. Best scheduled when you have the remainder of the day to rest and best for balancing racing thoughts, fear, anger, hatred or control. *Not recommended for those with a health history of seizures or sleep apnea. Bring a bandana or scarf to cover your head after the treatment.

• Kris Quiñones

30 Mins. - $90.00

According to Ayurveda, the nose is the doorway to the brain and to consciousness. Great attention is placed on the proper functioning of nasal pathways. This treatment cleans, lubricates, and strengthens those mucous membranes, whose function is to govern mental/intellectual activities, memory and concentration. Energy points on the face, neck, and shoulders are stimulated with massage and followed by the inhalation of aromatic steam and the application of herbal nose drops. Beneficial for those who suffer from chronic sinus infections, allergies, asthma, or migraine headaches. *Not to be done during pregnancy, menstruation, or on a full stomach.

• Kris Quiñones

"Basti" means a container, or bladder, for oil to sit in for a period of time. This treatment slows the natural degeneration of the eye, improves vision, and increases concentration and mental acuity. Dough is made using organic flour and placed around the eye to create a small dam. The dam is filled with warmed ghee, nourishing and hydrating the sclera and optic nerves. *Not for anyone who has had (or is scheduled to have) eye surgery within (4) four weeks or during an acute infection. Be prepared to remove contact lenses and wear eyeglasses afterward.

• Kris Quiñones

Warm Sacred Stone Massage: Unlike stone massages offered at spas, this treatment combines traditional Ayurvedic principles with the deep heat of stones. Having first been heated in a warm water bath the stones are then applied to your body using as many as (4) different organic, herbal oils - anchoring the first and second chakras (Muladhara and Svadhisthana). Also included is a foot massage with lemon and salt (known for detoxifying the body and removing negative energy) and abdominal massage ( to encourage proper elimination). Especially great for cold, winter months as a full body treatment. Releases persistently tight muscles, balances chakras, and allows for more restorative sleep. You are sure to leave feeling centered and deeply grounded. *Not recommended for those with high blood pressure or pregnancy.

• Kris Quiñones

90 Mins. Only - $150.00

CranioSacral Therapy works with the subtle bones of the skull and sacrum to balance the cerebrospinal fluid which influences many bodily functions. A very gentle approach to re-balancing soft tissue structures often compromised by injury or trauma, it has proven to be very effective in the treatment of chronic pain, migraine headaches, low-back pain, TMJD, and other stress-related symptoms.

• Richard Green
• Bob Nemeth
• Jan Larivee

30 Min. (initial session) - $50.00
45 Mins. - $75.00
60 Mins. - $100.00

Cupping helps to relieve chronic pain by releasing restrictions and adhesions in a muscle. It is the perfect choice when your muscles have become so tight that even deep tissue massage is unable to release the accumulated tension. Combines aspects of deep tissue massage & myofascial massage to increase Range of Motion (ROM) within each muscle. Also effective for TMJD and related areas around the neck & face.

• Buki Papillon

60 Min. - $110
75 Min. - $135
90 Min. - $160

Very effective if you’ve strained a muscle and are experiencing limited and/or painful movement. Quite different from “Therapeutic Massage with Extra Pressure,” our Deep Tissue Massage focuses on releasing muscle restrictions (adhesions) and rebalancing structural tension (holding patterns) running through the several layers of soft tissue (muscle). Deep Tissue Massage requires a much slower pace than our Therapeutic Massage and more than one session is usually necessary for better results and/or resolution.

• Richard Green
• Jared Green
• Bob Nemeth
• Kris Quiñones
• Jan Larivee
• Kathleen McGilvray
• Andrea D’Agostino
• Stephanie Welch
• Loretta McClary
• Deborah Hunter-Jones
• Tim Shaw
• Jeffrey McLeod
• Daniela Martinez

30 Mins. - $65.00
45 Mins. - $85.00
60 Mins. - $105.00
75 Mins. - $125.00
90 Mins. - $150.00
120 Mins. - $180.00

Our most popular massage. Integrative Bodywork combines several healing modalities such as Craniosacral, Positional Release, Neuromuscular Massage, acupressure, Soft Tissue Release, Active Isolated Stretching, Polarity, and Reiki with traditional massage. Integrative Bodywork is very effective at treating trauma, chronic pain such as sciatica, and acute injuries such as whiplash, carpal tunnel and other RSIs (repetitive strain injuries).

• Richard Green
• Jared Green
• Bob Nemeth
• Kris Quiñones
• Jan Larivee
• Kathleen McGilvray
• Andrea D’Agostino
• Stephanie Welch
• Loretta McClary
• Rochele Jones
• Deborah Hunter-Jones
• Tim Shaw
• Daniela Martinez

30 Mins. - $60.00
45 Mins. - $75.00
60 Mins. - $90.00
90 Mins. - $130.00
120 Mins. - $160.00

Have you ever wished that your "significant other" could give you a soothing massage when you were in pain? Couples are shown specific massage techniques for [your choice of] neck, shoulders, back, arms, hands, legs, and feet. Each session includes individual practice time.

• Richard Green
• Jared Green
• Kris Quiñones
• Jan Larivee
• Rochele Jones
• Jeffrey McLeod

90 Mins. - $150.00

Matrix Energetics is a new "consciousness technology" that combines the limitless potential of energywork with the principles of quantum & scalar physics. Everything can be broken down to fields of energy and information including our bodies, and our minds act as processors of this energy & information. This means that any symptom of dis-ease can be seen as just a field of disorganized energy that can be changed simply by bringing in a higher level of organization.

• Bob Nemeth
• Jan Larivee

Neuromuscular Facilitation bodywork/massage uses gentle, rhythmic movement and traction for various injuries such as whiplash, lower back or shoulder problems, as well as some general sports injuries. An incredibly effective re-patterning technique which works with the mind/body’s automatic need to protect itself from further injury. Specific gentle movements generated by the therapist are designed to influence the brain (stem) to re-evaluate “what-once-was” and permit a greater range of motion through the various joints. Some techniques may be performed fully-clothed if requested. Resultant benefits include reduction of pain, greater flexibility, and increased vitality.

• Richard Green
• Bob Nemeth
• Jan Larivee
• Tim Shaw
• Daniela Martinez

30 Mins. - $75.00
45 Mins. - $90.00
60 Mins. - $110.00
75 Mins. - $130.00
90 Mins. - $150.00

People in all phases of the journey through cancer can benefit from healing touch and carefully tailored massage therapy. Oncology massage can help manage symptoms and side effects of cancer and cancer treatment, including pain, nausea, fatigue, insomnia, anxiety and depression. Most of all, oncology massage is a nurturing experience designed to restore your sense of positive touch and an integrated body which helps encourage your body’s healing process. Susannah’s style of oncology massage incorporates gentle strokes, energy work and guided meditation to encourage deep relaxation of the body, mind and spirit. The mental and emotional stresses of dealing with cancer can begin with diagnosis, wax and wane throughout treatment, and sometimes linger even after a full recovery. Massage is a way of taking time out to care for your whole self during this often grueling, always individual process. There are only a few instances where touch is contraindicated for a cancer patient, but Susannah will work with you and your doctor to learn exactly what is the right level of massage for you at any point during your treatment and recovery. In order to determine the length and style of your initial massage session you will need to have a 15-minute phone interview with Susannah. Your doctor's approval may also be necessary. Please contact our office to discuss your needs with Susannah before making your initial appointment.

• Kathleen McGilvray
• Deborah Hunter-Jones

30 Mins. - $50.00
45 Mins. - $65.00
60 Mins. - $80.00

Pregnancy creates a multitude of changes in the body, mind and spirit. Let us help you adjust to them gracefully with reduced pain and discomfort. Prenatal Massage can help you sleep better and boost your energy. Your therapist will communicate with you about where you are in your pregnancy and will adjust the table and position accordingly. Most often, prenatal massage is done in a side laying position, bolstered with pillows and blankets. Your health & comfort is our first priority. At Massage Therapy Works we are very fortunate to have Kathleen on our staff who has received advanced training and certification in prenatal massage and will assist you as your body and mind transform in preparation for that incredible day ahead. If you are experiencing a high risk pregnancy, please be aware that massage can be contraindicated in certain situations. We must ask that you please be prepared with a written note from your doctor stating that massage is not contraindicated for you.

• Richard Green
• Bob Nemeth
• Kris Quiñones
• Jan Larivee
• Cara Paquette
• Kathleen McGilvray
• Andrea D’Agostino
• Stephanie Welch
• Loretta McClary
• Rochele Jones
• Daniela Martinez

60 Mins. - $85.00
75 Mins. - $100.00
90 Mins. - $115.00

Rehab Myotherapy focuses on acute and chronic areas of pain due to injury or serious muscle strain. It utilizes: Soft Tissue Release, BioEnergy Synchronization, Neuromuscular Facilitation, Active Isolated Stretching, Trigger Point therapy, CranioSacral Therapy, Myofascial Release, and oftentimes Deep Tissue Massage. During the course of the treatments there is an unwinding [undoing] of "old tissue patterns" which are responsible for having created the current pain originally. The therapist's goal is to help reorganize [rebalance] your connective tissue and nervous system in order to allow for a more efficient and mechanically correct way of using your body. Generally requires several sessions to be effective.

• Bob Nemeth

Initial Hour - $90.00
45 Mins. - $85.00
60 Mins. - $105.00
75 Mins. - $125.00
90 Mins. - $145.00
120 Mins. - $180.00

This is the kind you're most likely to encounter at a spa. Stress Reduction massage can also induce a state of mind called the Relaxation Response, which has been shown to minimize the effects of stress and boost your immune system. Everyone knows that a stressful day will cause the muscles in your shoulders and neck to tighten. For some, symptoms can even include a tense jaw, back ache, fatigue and headaches. When you're feeling overwhelmed and simple movement is stiff our Relaxation Massage will bring you immediate relief. For more severe or chronic pain you might consider our Therapeutic Massage.

• Jared Green
• Kris Quiñones
• Cara Paquette
• Kathleen McGilvray
• Buki Papillon
• Orion Nemeth
• Stephanie Welch
• Loretta McClary
• Rochele Jones
• Deborah Hunter-Jones
• Mary Wahlman-Krogh
• Jeffrey McLeod
• Meghan Gihooly
• Sonja Free-Bernt
• Daniela Martinez

60 mins - $70.00
75 mins - $85.00
90 mins - $100.00

Based in ancient Incan tradition, this energetic healing modality focuses on the luminous energy field that surrounds every living body. This energy field holds a template that acts as the blueprint for our lives, from emotional scars to susceptibility to certain diseases.

The goal of Shamanic healing is to rewrite these templates, called "imprints," and erase those that lead to disorder and disease, replacing them with new, positive pathways.

• Bob Nemeth

It is important for an athlete to understand that the axial spinal reflexes are responsible for muscle and ligament contraction and dysfunction. Prolonged muscle & ligament contractions and muscle hypertonicity, caused by soft tissue strains, trauma or surgery, often results in: muscle weakness, fatigue, spasms, aberant joint motion, trigger points, and soft tissue fibrosis.

Spinal Reflex Analysis focuses on your specific neuromusculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. Resolving the soft tissue strain can have significant effects on your health and physical performance, improving your balance, coordination, and recovery time.

Chronic pain syndromes are often a result of secondary muscles tightening up in response to a primary muscle's inability to do a task without fear of further injury and additional pain. Spinal Reflex Analysis has had much success with resolving chronic pain syndromes.

• Bob Nemeth

Initial session, 90 minutes - $145.00
60 Mins. - $95.00
75 Mins. - $120.00

You don't have to be an athlete to go in for a sports massage. This variation on the Swedish technique can increase your range of motion and speed recovery of sore muscles whether you're a seasoned jock or just starting an exercise program. Get one before a workout to loosen you up and help protect against injuries, or get one soon after to reduce soreness.

A sports massage therapist may use their forearm or the palm of their hand to bear down on the muscles in your legs and back to separate and relax them and their fingers to put direct pressure on a muscle in spasm, which can be painful but will reduce your pain later. If you're a runner, they might concentrate on your legs; if you're a swimmer, they might spend more time on your upper body.

• Richard Green
• Bob Nemeth
• Jan Larivee
• Kathleen McGilvray
• Andrea D’Agostino
• Stephanie Welch
• Loretta McClary
• Rochele Jones
• Deborah Hunter-Jones
• Tim Shaw
• Jeffrey McLeod
• Daniela Martinez

30 Mins. - $60.00
45 Mins. - $75.00
60 Mins. - $90.00
75 Mins. - $110.00
90 Mins. - $130.00

Structural Integration relieves the patterns of stress and impaired body functioning due to incorrect posture and chronic/acute conditions (such as lower back pain, or neck and shoulder injuries) through the manipulation of deep & superficial connective tissue. Part deep-tissue massage & part structural-strategy to help restore balance to the body.

• Richard Green
• Bob Nemeth

Initial session, 90 minutes - $145.00
60 Mins. - $105.00
75 Mins. - $125.00

This centuries-old practice has its roots in Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and Thai folk healing. Thai Bodywork occurs fully clothed, in a one-on-one setting on a comfortable floor mat without oils or lotions. The practitioner uses hands, thumbs, forearms, elbows, knees and feet to work meridians and pressure points throughout the body in a meditative, flowing, dance-like rhythm. In addition, the practitioner guides the recipient into passive yoga postures linking breath with movement to stretch muscles, compress and decompress joints and increase range of motion. Thai Bodywork has many beneficial effects such as:

• Loretta McClary

60 Mins. - $90.00

90 Mins. - $120.00

At MTW we strongly feel that because you have a tension pattern that is unique to you, your session should be customized to meet your individual needs/issues. Our therapists are skilled in many healing modalities which they combine to provide you with a truly therapeutic experience for your mind, body and spirit. Our hope is to educate and encourage you to be an active participant in your own health and wellness, with that in mind, we ask that you please communicate with your therapist about the technique and pressure they use. You may need to upgrade to Therapeutic Massage with Extra Pressure or to one of our Advanced Bodywork modalities (see below). So if you wish to relax, relieve your pain and tension, or simply benefit from some compassionate touch, our therapeutic massage is right for you.

• Richard Green
• Jared Green
• Bob Nemeth
• Kris Quiñones
• Jan Larivee
• Cara Paquette
• Kathleen McGilvray
• Buki Papillon
• Andrea D’Agostino
• Orion Nemeth
• Stephanie Welch
• Loretta McClary
• Rochele Jones
• Deborah Hunter-Jones
• Tim Shaw
• Mary Wahlman-Krogh
• Jeffrey McLeod
• Meghan Gihooly
• Sonja Free-Bernt
• Daniela Martinez

For anyone who prefers additional pressure. The therapist applies sustained pressure with the use of their fingers, forearm, and/or elbow. Pressure intensity is adjusted for individual client needs & comfort level.

• Richard Green
• Jared Green
• Bob Nemeth
• Kris Quiñones
• Jan Larivee
• Cara Paquette
• Kathleen McGilvray
• Andrea D’Agostino
• Orion Nemeth
• Stephanie Welch
• Loretta McClary
• Rochele Jones
• Deborah Hunter-Jones
• Tim Shaw
• Mary Wahlman-Krogh
• Jeffrey McLeod
• Sonja Free-Bernt
• Daniela Martinez

30 Mins. - $60.00
45 Mins. - $75.00
60 Mins. - $90.00
75 Mins. - $110.00
90 Mins. - $130.00