Remedial Massage
Are you living with chronic pain, persistent muscle tension, or recovering from an injury? Remedial massage is a targeted, therapeutic approach that addresses the underlying causes of your pain - not just the symptoms. As a Wembley-based remedial massage therapist with 18 years of experience, I specialise in resolving neck pain, shoulder tension, headaches, and sports injuries through evidence-based massage techniques tailored to your specific condition and goals.
What is Remedial Massage?
Remedial massage is a therapeutic treatment designed to identify and address specific musculoskeletal problems, chronic pain conditions, and injuries. Unlike relaxation massage, which focuses on general stress relief, remedial massage uses targeted assessment and treatment techniques to:
Identify the Source of Pain
Through careful assessment of your posture, movement patterns, and muscle tension, I identify the underlying causes of your discomfort - not just where it hurts, but why it hurts.
Treat the Root Cause
Rather than providing temporary relief, remedial massage addresses the muscular imbalances, trigger points, and fascial restrictions that create and perpetuate your pain.
Restore Function
The goal is not just pain relief, but restoration of normal movement, improved flexibility, and prevention of future problems.
Create Lasting Results
By treating the cause rather than just symptoms, remedial massage provides longer-lasting relief and helps prevent recurring problems.
Conditions Remedial Massage Treats
I have extensive experience treating a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions:
Chronic Pain Conditions
Persistent neck pain, shoulder tension, upper back pain, lower back pain, chronic headaches, fibromyalgia, and long-standing muscle tightness that hasn't responded to other treatments.
Postural Problems
Forward head posture from computer work, rounded shoulders, tension from poor workstation setup, and pain caused by postural imbalances and muscle compensation patterns.
Sports Injuries
Muscle strains and tears, tendonitis (shoulder, elbow, achilles), overuse injuries, IT band syndrome, shin splints, rotator cuff issues, and support for injury rehabilitation and prevention.
Work-Related Pain
Repetitive strain injuries, computer-related neck and shoulder pain, occupational overuse injuries, and tension from prolonged sitting or standing.
Acute Injuries
Recent muscle strains, joint sprains (after initial inflammation subsides), whiplash recovery, and post-surgical rehabilitation (with medical clearance).
Headaches and Migraines
Tension headaches, cervicogenic headaches (originating from the neck), migraine-associated muscle tension, and jaw-related headaches from TMJ problems.
Remedial Massage Techniques I Use
Every remedial massage treatment is tailored to your specific condition. I combine multiple techniques based on what your body needs:
Deep Tissue Massage
Working into the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue to release chronic tension, break down adhesions, and restore normal muscle function. More focused and specific than a regular massage.
Trigger Point Therapy
Identifying and releasing hyperirritable spots in muscles that create referred pain patterns. Trigger points in your neck and shoulders, for example, often cause headaches and arm pain.
Myofascial Release
Addressing restrictions in the fascia (the connective tissue web that surrounds muscles) to restore movement, reduce pain, and improve flexibility. Essential for long-standing problems and old injuries.
Stretching and Mobilisation
Assisted stretching and joint mobilisation to improve range of motion, restore normal movement patterns, and prevent stiffness.
Postural Assessment and Correction
Identifying postural imbalances and muscle compensation patterns, then addressing them through treatment and providing exercises to maintain improvements.
What to Expect from Your Remedial Massage
Your First Appointment
Your initial 60-minute remedial massage includes:
Assessment: We discuss your pain history, when it started, what makes it better or worse, any previous treatments, and your goals.
Treatment: Hands-on remedial massage tailored to your condition. The pressure and techniques used depend on your needs - from gentle work for sensitive conditions to deeper tissue work for chronic muscle tension.
Recommendations: Self-care strategies, exercises if appropriate, and discussion of ongoing treatment if needed. I'll explain what I found and what's contributing to your pain.
During Treatment
You'll remain comfortably draped with towels throughout, with only the area being worked on exposed. Remedial massage is more focused and often deeper than relaxation massage. You may experience some productive discomfort during deep tissue work or trigger point release, but it should never be unbearable. I periodically check in with you to ensure appropriate pressure.
After Your Session
Some muscle soreness for 24-48 hours after treatment is normal, similar to post-exercise soreness. This indicates your tissues are responding and healing. Drinking plenty of water, gentle movement, and rest when needed all support your recovery.
Many people notice:
Reduced pain and tension immediately
Improved range of motion
Better sleep that night
Gradual continued improvement over the following days
Increased awareness of their posture and tension patterns
How Remedial Massage Differs from Other Massage
Remedial Massage vs Relaxation Massage:
Goal: Treating specific problems vs general relaxation
Approach: Targeted assessment and treatment vs flowing, general techniques
Pressure: Varies based on condition vs consistently light/medium
Focus: Problem-solving vs stress relief
Outcome: Pain relief and functional improvement vs relaxation
Remedial Massage vs Physiotherapy:
Overlap: Both treat musculoskeletal problems
Difference: More emphasis on soft tissue work vs exercise and rehabilitation
Complementary: Many clients benefit from both
When to choose massage: For muscle-related pain, tension, trigger points
Remedial Massage vs Chiropractic:
Focus: Muscles and soft tissue vs spine and joint alignment
Approach: Hands-on soft tissue work vs adjustments
Complementary: Often work well together
When to choose massage: For muscle tension, chronic pain, soft tissue problems
How Often Should You Have Remedial Massage?
Treatment frequency depends on your condition and goals:
Acute Pain or Recent Injury - 2-3 times per week initially to address inflammation, reduce pain, and support healing. As symptoms improve, reduce frequency.
Chronic Conditions - Weekly for 4-6 weeks to break the pain cycle and address accumulated tension, then reduce to fortnightly, then monthly for maintenance.
Sports Performance and Prevention - Weekly to fortnightly during heavy training periods. Monthly for injury prevention and maintenance when training is moderate.
Post-Surgical Rehabilitation - 2-3 times per week initially (with medical clearance), reducing frequency as healing progresses and function returns.
Maintenance and Prevention - Monthly sessions help maintain improvements, prevent problems from recurring, and catch developing issues before they become painful.
I'll recommend a treatment plan specific to your needs during your first appointment, and we'll adjust as you progress.
Who Benefits from Remedial Massage?
Office Workers and Desk Workers
Computer-related neck and shoulder pain, forward head posture, tension headaches, and repetitive strain injuries from prolonged sitting and screen time.
Manual Workers and Tradespeople
Overuse injuries from repetitive movements, lower back pain from lifting, shoulder strain from overhead work, and fatigue from physical labour.
Athletes and Active Individuals
Sports injury treatment and prevention, performance enhancement, recovery between training sessions, and maintaining flexibility and muscle function.
People with Chronic Pain
Fibromyalgia, chronic neck and back pain, persistent headaches, and long-standing tension that hasn't responded to other treatments.
Pre and Post-Natal
Pregnancy-related back pain, neck and shoulder tension from feeding and carrying, and supporting recovery after childbirth.
Injury Recovery
Post-surgical rehabilitation, recovery from accidents or trauma (with medical clearance), and restoring function after injury.
Anyone Seeking Better Function
Improving flexibility, reducing everyday aches and pains, preventing problems before they start, and maintaining optimal physical health.
Self-Care Between Appointments
To maintain improvements between remedial massage sessions:
Stay Active
Gentle movement and regular activity help maintain flexibility and prevent stiffness.
Avoid prolonged inactivity, but also don't overdo high-intensity activity immediately after treatment.
Practice Good Posture
Be mindful of your sitting and standing posture, especially if computer work or poor posture contributes to your pain.
Set hourly reminders to check your position.
Use Heat or Ice Appropriately
Heat for chronic muscle tension (before stretching or at the end of the day).
Ice for acute inflammation or immediately after aggravating an injury. 15-20 minutes maximum.
Do Your Exercises
If I have given you specific exercises or stretches, doing them consistently between appointments significantly improves your outcomes.
Manage Stress
Stress directly contributes to muscle tension.
Find healthy ways to manage stress - whether through exercise, meditation, hobbies, or regular massage.
Stay Hydrated
Proper hydration supports muscle function and recovery.
Aim for 2 litres of water daily, more if you're very active.
18 Years of Specialised Experience
Nearly two decades of treating chronic pain, sports injuries, and musculoskeletal problems means I've seen and successfully relieved a wide variety of conditions.
Specialisation in Neck, Shoulder, and Headache Pain
These are my primary areas of focus. I understand the complex relationships between posture, muscle tension, and pain in these areas.
Comprehensive Assessment
I don't just treat where it hurts - I identify why it hurts and address the underlying causes for lasting results.
Evidence-Based Techniques
I use proven remedial massage techniques, including deep tissue work, trigger point therapy, and myofascial release, tailored to your specific condition.
Personalised Treatment Plans
Every person is different. Your treatment is designed specifically for your condition, goals, and response to therapy.
Additional Expertise
Training in Dr. Vodder lymphatic drainage for inflammation, sports massage for athletic recovery, and understanding of forward head posture and postural dysfunction.
Athlete's Perspective
My background as a competitive swimmer gives me personal insight into sports injuries, training demands, and the importance of effective recovery.
Convenient Wembley Location
Located at 26 Salvado Road, opposite Bunnings Home Base in Subiaco, with easy access and convenient parking for clients from Wembley, West Leederville, Subiaco, Glendalough, and Floreat.
Why Choose Tracey Cross for Remedial Massage in Wembley?
Book Your Remedial Massage in Wembley
Whether you're dealing with chronic pain that's been limiting your life, recovering from an injury, or wanting to prevent problems before they start, remedial massage can help.
With 18 years of experience specialising in neck pain, shoulder tension, and headaches, I'm here to help you understand what's causing your pain and create a treatment plan that addresses it effectively.
Ready to address your pain and restore function?
Clinic Location: 26 Salvado Road Wembley, WA 6014. Located opposite Bunnings Home Base in Subiaco - easy to find with convenient parking.
Serving: Wembley, West Leederville, Subiaco, Glendalough, Floreat, Jolimont, City Beach, Mount Hawthorn, and surrounding Perth suburbs
Health fund rebates may be available - bring your health fund card to your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Remedial Massage
How is remedial massage different from a regular massage?
Remedial massage is therapeutic and problem-focused, using assessment and specific techniques to treat injuries, chronic pain, and musculoskeletal problems. Regular relaxation massage focuses on general stress relief without addressing specific conditions.
Will remedial massage hurt?
You may experience some productive discomfort during deep tissue work or trigger point release, particularly in very tight or problematic areas. However, it should never be intolerable. I work within your comfort level and regularly check in to adjust pressure as needed.
How long does an appointment take?
Standard appointments are 60 minutes, including assessment, treatment, and time for questions.
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothing. You'll undress to your comfort level and will be professionally draped with towels throughout, with only the area being worked on exposed.
Will I be sore after treatment?
Some muscle soreness for 24-48 hours after treatment is normal and indicates your body is responding. This is similar to post-exercise soreness. Drinking water and gentle movement helps. If soreness is severe or unusual, please contact me.
How many sessions will I need?
This depends on your condition, how long you've had it, and how you respond to treatment. Acute problems often improve quickly (3-6 sessions), while chronic conditions typically require more sessions (8-12 or more). I'll recommend a treatment plan after your first appointment.
Do you accept health insurance?
I am a registered remedial massage therapist, and many health funds provide rebates for remedial massage therapy. Bring your health fund card to your appointment. Check with your fund about your specific coverage.
Can you treat me if I'm pregnant?
Yes, remedial massage can be very beneficial during pregnancy for back pain, neck tension, and other pregnancy-related discomfort. Please let me know if you're pregnant when booking so I can adapt treatment appropriately.
Should I do anything before my appointment?
Just come as you are. Don't do intense exercise immediately before your appointment. If you have any medical reports or information about your condition, bring them along. Hydrate well the day of the massage.
What if I have a specific medical condition?
Please let me know about any medical conditions when booking. For some conditions (recent surgery, certain heart conditions, blood clots), I may request medical clearance from your doctor before treatment. This is for your safety.