Neuro Massage Therapist
Specialist massage that understands the nervous system
The basics
What is a neuro massage therapist?
A neuro massage therapist is not your typical spa massage therapist. They are specifically trained to work with people whose nervous system has been affected by stroke, brain injury, MS, Parkinson's, spinal cord injury, or other neurological conditions. This is specialist rehabilitation-focused work, not relaxation massage.
They understand how the nervous system controls muscle tone, sensation, and movement. After a brain or spinal cord injury, the nervous system often gets "stuck" - muscles might become tight and stiff (spasticity), or the brain might struggle to receive sensory information properly. A neuro massage therapist uses specialist techniques to help retrain the nervous system, reduce tone, improve sensation, and help your body regulate itself.
They'll also consider how your nervous system is doing emotionally - they might help calm an anxious or hypervigilant nervous system, or gently activate it if you're feeling stuck. They're trained to position you safely, work around swelling or weakness, and know when to refer you to other specialists. This is rehabilitation work that sits alongside your physio, OT, and other therapies.
Related Resources
Looking for more on neuro massage?
If you would like to book a session directly with Gemma in London, visit neuromassage.co.uk. If you are based in London specifically, we have a dedicated guide to finding neuro massage in London.
If you are a massage therapist or bodyworker who would like to train in neurological techniques, the Neuro Training School offers courses for practitioners. For a wider library of articles, research and resources on neuro massage, visit neuromassage.info.
Who benefits
Who might benefit from seeing a neuro massage therapist?
If you have spasticity (stiffness and tightness), pain, swelling, reduced sensation, or your nervous system feels "stuck" or dysregulated, a neuro massage therapist can help. They work well alongside your other therapies and can be a key part of managing your condition long-term. Neuro massage can also support people living with dementia and children with neurological conditions.
What to expect
What happens in a session?
Detailed Intake & Assessment
Your therapist will ask about your condition, where you have pain or tightness, what your goals are, and how your nervous system is doing. They'll assess muscle tone, check for swelling, and understand what's affecting you most.
Adapted Positioning & Comfort
Your therapist will position you safely - often with pillows and support - so you're completely comfortable. They'll work around any weakness, swelling, or sensitivity. This isn't about relaxation position; it's about supporting your body safely.
Specialist Techniques
They'll use a combination of techniques tailored to your nervous system - deep tissue work, gentle mobilisation, passive stretching, or very light touch depending on what you need. The aim is to help your nervous system relearn how to regulate muscle tone and sensation.
Guidance & Self-Care
Your therapist will give you aftercare advice - whether to move gently, rest, stretch, or keep warm. They may suggest things you can do at home to maintain the benefits. Regular sessions often work better than one-off appointments.
Finding support
How do I find a neuro massage therapist?
Neuro massage therapists are less common than general massage therapists, so it's worth taking time to find someone properly trained. Look for therapists who have specialist qualifications in neurological massage or neuro-rehabilitation massage - not just general massage qualifications.
You can access neuro massage privately. The My Rehab Journey directory lists specialist neuro massage therapists across the UK. Many will offer initial consultations so you can discuss whether their approach is right for you. You might also ask your physiotherapist or occupational therapist for recommendations - they often work closely with neuro massage therapists.
Common Questions
Frequently asked questions
Is neuro massage the same as regular massage?
No. Neuro massage is specialist rehabilitation-focused work for nervous system retraining. Regular massage is relaxation-focused. A neuro massage therapist understands spasticity, tone regulation, and nervous system function after injury.
Do you need a referral for neuro massage?
Neuro massage is private, so you can self-refer. However, asking your physio or OT for recommendations is valuable. They often work closely with neuro massage therapists and can advise if it's right for you.
How much does neuro massage typically cost?
Neuro massage sessions in the UK typically cost £60-£150 per hour, varying by location and therapist experience. Many people find regular sessions more effective than one-off appointments.
Is Gemma Eves, the founder, still seeing clients?
Yes. Gemma practises in London and offers neuro massage sessions. You can book directly through neuromassage.co.uk or find details on the My Rehab Journey directory.
What qualifications should a neuro massage therapist have?
Look for specialist training in neurological massage or neuromuscular therapy. The Neuro Training School offers courses, and trained therapists often mention this qualification. Don't assume all massage therapists have neuro training.
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Related resources
Related practitioners
Neuro Physiotherapist · MSK Physiotherapist · Aquatic Therapist
Conditions we work with
Stroke · Brain Injury · Multiple Sclerosis · Parkinson's · FND
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