Margaret is much more than deep tissue massage. She can best be described as a healer. Her expertise is so tremendous that she can diagnose acute or chronic issues simply by looking at a client. The first time that I visited her office, she was able to describe my musculoskeletal problems immediately and start to work on resolving the issues. These were long standing chronic problems that took several MRIs to diagnose and for which physical therapy could not touch. Anyone will appreciate her holistic approach to health and her substantial knowledge in healing garnered from many generations of healers. If you suffer from pain, lack of mobility or any other health related issues, don't give up. Go see Margaret. read more

Margaret is a true gem and has generations of knowledge. This is not for the faint of heart but for people that want true healing. Thank you Margaret read more

Wonderful and effective tui na style massage. Not for the faint of heart, but you will feel relief after

I came to margrets after hearing amazing things around the neighborhood. She sat me down and went through my restrictions of my shoulder lock. She examined my shoulder and the connecting parts and showed me my knots. The message was like nothing I've heard before and my range of motion improved after just one session. I can't wait to come back next week. She is a healing ANGEL! read more

This was, to put it lightly, not for me. Four days post-massage, reporting in. So first of all, based on the other yelp reviews Margaret clearly helps a lot of people. I am not going to tell anyone that they shouldn't pursue something that works for them, but I want to share my experience. I went in for chronic mid-lower back discomfort (not acute pain but muscle tension/inflammation). Margaret was very friendly to me and has a warm bedside manner. When I arrived, I told her that I am sensitive to pain and that I would probably require her to use less pressure than the average person. She told me not to worry and that she would figure out the correct amount of pressure to use as she went along. That sounded fine to me. That massage was one of the most excruciating hours of my life. I am not talking about "hurts so good" pain, I am talking about fight-or-flight eliciting, brought-me-to-tears pain. I said several times that it was too much and she let up maybe 5-10% but insisted that she needed to use more pressure than usual since I had several knots. Since her yelp reviews are good and I had never had a deep tissue massage before, I tolerated it. She also said that my nerves were in the wrong place and actually pressed down directly on them, which were some of the most painful moments. She informed me that I would likely feel sore, like I had worked out. I have been sore from what feels like bruised tissue. She did warn me that it would likely take several sessions to fix the problem, but as I have experienced no improvement (I am actually slightly more uncomfortable) since our session, I do not plan on returning. I am not saying she can't/won't help you-but I do want to warn people that they will likely need to be very firm if you are uncomfortable/need her to use less pressure. read more

Worst massage of my life! I've had lots of massages, and I get the wide range of techniques and skill, but I've never experienced anything like this before. "Margaret" is in vein of Thai massage, but not like any Thai massage I've ever experienced anywhere. She seemed to believe that the more painful the massage was, the better. I am used to very deep tissue, and I get that at times a good massage is uncomfortable, or even painful at times, but this was another level. I told her that it was too painful, and she laughed and told me the pain is good. It was so painful and unpleasant that my whole body tensed and I couldn't relax at all. I waited to write my review until at least a week after the massage. Sometimes, a painful massage is good because afterwards muscles do great, but that was not at all the case with "Margaret." I was incredibly sore for three days, my neck hurt, and my calf hurt whenever I walked. There was no good after the pain, just more pain. I would never go back, and I would never recommend "Margaret" to anyone. A good masseuse listens to the client and adjusts. A good masseuse may cause pain, but never just for the sake of causing pain. This seemed like a scene from a bad movie about a masochistic masseuse! It would be funny if it hadn't been so unpleasant. read more

I hope you are sitting down, as this could take a while. I have suffered from chronic back pain over 20 years. During this time, I have tried everything to deal with my pain: every over the counter remedy, acupuncture, facet injections, physical therapy, alexander method, svaroopa yoga, rolfing, and many more I have since forgot. I have tried every pain medication, including pot and alcohol. At times I have considered suicide. It was that bad. I have all the "s's: Scoliosis, Spondolisthesis, Sciatica, Spinal Stenosis, and probably some other "s's" yet to be named. I am only 58 yrs old but I have the body of a 30 year old. Only my spine holds me back, and I've had to give up many outdoor activities I love. I was cleared for fusion surgery but I know that is the end of the line for many patients, and I was not ready to go there. My wife learned of Margaret through social media and I thought "why not." When I first met her, she was careful not to promise miracles. She asked me to call a patient of hers that had similar problems - that guy told me "Margaret saved my life." Turns out by coincidence I recognized this guy as someone I knew - as if it was a sign. Being on Margaret's table will give you insight into a professional with indescribable powers: I think Margaret could put her hand on my lower back and tell me what I've done the past 24 hours. Her touch is that perceptive. Margaret gave me insight into my condition that dozens of the best trained doctors failed to see: that my muscles were hyper-contracted and holding my sciatica nerve hostage (in a manner of speaking). The muscle was pulling my spine out of alignment and pinching my nerve. There is a name for what I have: "piriformis syndrome." Giving my condition a name was a gift in itself but Margaret has given me so much more: including hope. After about a dozen sessions with her I have made a lot of progress. I have paired her treatment with an injection in my piriformis muscle to loosen it further. I am feeling much better now than ever before. I feel in control of my destiny. Let me tell you however that if you have a condition similar to mine, or any other condition where your muscles are tight or hyper contracted - it is hard work for Margaret to treat them. The hour on her table started as the most painful experience of my life, and don't expect Margaret to show too much sympathy. She is determined to help you and won't give in easily. Just when you think you can catch your breath on her table, she is poking you again and making you cry. I can say this is all worth it. I can also say that Margaret truly cares for her patients and wants them to both understand what she is doing and how you can improve on your own. Unlike chiropractors that may expect you to become dependent on them, Margaret will be happy to see you cured and back to your normal routines. read more

Margaret is without a doubt one of the most talented and gifted healers I've ever met. Her work is incredible, it actually feels good while she is doing it, and her energy keeps woking on you the next day, you really feel great hours and days afterwards. Margaret's work can best be described as having a light to medium touch but having a deep affect. Its one of those things you really have to experience to believe. Her studio is immaculate and comfortable. She has a way of putting you instantly at ease. The only downside is that she is pretty busy but if you book a few days in advance you can get in. Margaret comes from a long line of healers in her family going back several generations in China. If you really want to experience something that touches your spirit and heals your body Margaret at Massage by Margaret is you person. I guess the best way I can summarize the session is by saying wow! I also have to say what an incredible value she is for what she charges. Although she would be incredible value at any price. read more

Deep Tissue By Margaret - Margaret, one of San Diego's incredible Healers. - Massage Near Me - San Diego, California

Unless you have a minor muscle issue, you should stay away from Margaret. After about 8 sessions with her, and mounting suspicions about her methods (which are just applying extreme pressure to sensitive areas), she injured my neck badly. I went to the doctor and found out she had created a severe neck strain by pushing down on my face to "correct" my forward leaning neck. Her logic usually follows over simplified methods like I describe above--if your neck leans forward, she tries to force it back the opposite way. The problem is that this only compounds the issue, and I only found this out too late. She speaks all sorts of pseudoscience about the body, which should've been a red flag, as well as the lack of paperwork and under-the-table shadiness of her job, but I was desperate for pain relief so I tried to commit to her for a bit. I just wish I hadn't. I now have a pinched nerve in my neck that radiates pain constantly. Do NOT risk it by going here. This isn't to say she might not help you, but I would estimate that her success is due to regular deep tissue work--not her claims about how her methods are different and target the nerves. Directly pressing on nerves may give the illusion of "fixing" the issue because it's so painful, but that's just bs. Yes, pain is often necessary to undo soft tissue problems, but her methods are ridiculous. read more

I'm sorry to say this was not like any massage or body work I've experienced- and I'm a massage therapist. I receive treatment regularly with PT and acupuncture- but thought I'd try her out ... Although she means well and wants to help she also does not know anatomy - It was very disappointing.... read more

I met Margaret 5 years ago after a long search for someone who could fix my back, neck, jaw and joints. I've had pain for decades and had learned to tolerate it as modern medicine doctors don't possess the skills to deal with chronic muscular issues which develop over decades of sports activity. I'd been to dozens of therapists without any relief and finally met Margaret. She changed my life. She saved my life. She uses extreme deep tissue pressure in exactly the right spots to breakup tendon knots and nerve pain and realign the skeletal structure so your body stops fighting itself. She has an awareness of the body which is hard to explain. It's a very intuitive gift. I've been going for 5 years. I have so many parts of my body damaged from 3 motorcycle wrecks, 2 flipped car accidents, bad chiropractors and a host of other crazy accidents... Today I'm pain free. Thank you Margaret. I'm forever grateful !!! Jay C. - Carmel Valley read more

Best massage in San Diego. Margaret is a real healer. She knows the human body like no other. This is deep tissue so no pain no gain. Been coming here for years and never met anyone better than her. 100% recommend her. read more

I first heard of Margaret from Nextdoor as a healer. I was in pain from spinal stenosis coupled with a herniated disc and had difficulty moving, extreme stiffness and all around pain. I had tried acupuncture, physical therapy, chiropractic and although everything was helping a bit, it all seemed incremental and I didn't see a light at the end of the tunnel. I called up Margaret and set an appointment, not really knowing what to expect. The first thing you should expect is pain; this is not a basic massage! At least with me, she found each of my muscles that were tightened up and she worked them and worked them. And although I winced through it all, I left feeling significantly better and the improvement seems to have lasted. I've now been back at least five or six times and I'm planning to go back while she works through my tightness. Her work has removed my everyday pain, significantly lessened my tightness and has improved my flexibility. I'm a fan and definitely recommend Margaret if you have any back/muscle issues to work through. read more

I've seen Margaret several times, for both massage and facial. I would use the word bodywork or treatment, rather than massage. Her work is so deep and intense that it hurts sooooo good. I've always liked deep tissue work, and rolfing, so I can handle it (most of the time). The facial was fantastic. Beyond the products that definitely firmed my skin, the effects of her massage had more lasting effects. Her pricing is so reasonable and she's very pleasant and has great energy! It was easy to schedule and she's super convenient in Sorrento Valley. I highly recommend her to anyone needing relief from chronic tight muscles and overall tension. Give yourself the gift...its definitely worth it! read more

Margret is very knowledgeable and is the best therapist in town if you have any joint pain. She was able to help me get back to my routine workout only after a few visits. Her technique combines Asian traditional medicine with western anatomy to effectively target the pain areas. The effect is almost immediate! read more

Have had two massages done by Margaret so far, having my third one tomorrow. I have suffered from chronic pain on the right side of my body.. head to toe. She miraculously fixed my back, something doctor's couldn't do for years! She is now working on my arm and leg which i'm sure she'll have fixed in no time! This is by no means a relaxing spa type of massage. You come here to get fixed so expect it to hurt... but it will be so worth it in the end! Margaret knows what she's doing for sure!! read more

Well I can tell you that everyone here is right! I am accustomed to having deep tissue massages, so although it's been a while (a year?) since my last one I went in today without hesitation for shoulder, neck and jaw issues, figuring I could handle it - u know, breathe through the pain for the ultimate good. Holy moly! Margaret doesn't mess around. She went right to the issues, no light touch build up, no oil and got to work. After the first 10 - 20 minutes I thought there's no way in hell I'm coming back and paying $ to endure this pain! Yes, they were fleeting moments of bliss when she hunkered down on that right spot. I was trying to buy into the notion that each time I came it would get better. That was four hours ago. I'm now home and I feel like a new woman! No soreness, no tension, I know I'm going to sleep like a baby. Going back! read more

I read a review on Nextdoor and tried it.....Deep Tissue Acupressure Massage by Margaret. I had plateaued with doctors & physical therapists, etc. and still needed/knew I could make more progress (motion & less pain). I saw Margaret and she has helped me big time! Highly recommend her--she is knowledgeable, professional, and reasonably priced deep tissue acupressure massage therapist. Want specifics?--I broke and fractured several bones from my shoulder to hand plus 2 tears in a ligament (plates, pins, surgeries,etc.) After two years of excellent care from doctors, PT/OT and braces, Margaret just got me to the next level of progress and it's holding. My teenager broke his L3 and could not lift his leg so between doctor visits, natural healing and 2-3 visits with Margaret--he's pain-free and back to normal. My cross country twenager who had a grade 3 sprain with complete tear of ATFL (foot). After being in a brace and crutches for 3 weeks, the doctors and PT wanted him to put weight on it but he couldn't. First appointment with Margaret was rough/painful to get his ankle/foot moving but he literally left needing only one crutch. Three days later, he had a second appoint and left needing only a walking stick. In those few days, he thinks he's got 70% motion and weight back on foot. I think he needs a couple more appointments with Margaret and then we'll check back in with doctor and PT. I'm only sharing my experience on how Margaret helped our household. If you are looking to try something new/different--I recommend trying Margaret. Thank you. read more

Six months ago suddenly one day, my left forearm pains me can not lift up anything or wring the towel. I have done acupuncture, cupping, massage for 2 month only helps me a little bit, then I went to see a doctor for the continue pain. I was prescribed 3 cycle of Naproxen, it gets much better, but still ache. Then I call Margaret, the first deep tissue massage makes me so sore for couple days but less pain after. So I continue 4 Margaret's treatment until today, I am able to do my regular work now and feel much better results then above treatment I had. Thank you Margaret, I will keep coming! read more

Excellent massage. She is very good at finding tense muscles with her touch and massaging them to help you relax and improve circulation. The table was comfortable and she also has a massage chair. One of my favorites. FYI, I was not able to enter the building from the front entrance but the door on the east side of the building leads to her suite upstairs. read more

Margaret is a wonderful skilled healer. She does an amazing deepest of deep tissue massages that is magic for chronic pain. I've been Struggling with lower back and neck pains for a few years. After a few sessions I no longer am in pain. If you are active, athletic and demand a lot from your body, go see her and incorporate her in your routine. Highly recommend her. read more

I have a long history of pain in my lower back and in my upper shoulders. I first went to see Margaret after I had a particularly bad episode with my lower back late last year. She quickly zeroed in on my problem areas with a very effective deep tissue massage technique. After a couple more visits, my back was feeling 110% better. Then earlier this year, my recurring shoulder pain started acting up. Sure enough, after a few visits to see Margaret my shoulder is feeling so much better. I hesitate to even call what Margaret does massage, it is much more therapeutic than that - closer to intensive physical therapy, but even that might be an understatement. I have tried professional physical therapy for my shoulders before, and I think that what Margaret does is - with all honesty - much more effective. I would be lying to you if I said there will be no pain. You go to see Margaret because you have an area that is sore and in pain. Thus for her treatments to be of value, she has to get in there and physically work out whatever the issue might be. Some pain is unavoidable, and you want that if you are serious about getting better ;-). The key is to just trust, relax and release. You will not regret it. Peace, Peter read more

Margaret is an amazing massage therapist. Note: this is therapy, not spa massage. I have had debilitating hip and low back pain for over three years. I had been through physical therapy with two different offices, tried acupuncture, another massage therapist, and was seeing a chronic pain doctor. I began going to Margaret only 3-4 weeks ago, and she has made more difference for me in this short time than anything else I have tried. I am finally sleeping at night and more active during the day. I highly recommend you try her for any pain you are having. You will need to practice your deep breathing as she works, but you will be glad you went. read more

I went to Margaret last week, and I plan on going back again. Here is why: As you read this review, note that my entire body was stiff and very sore - for no particular reason aside from that's just how I am. I went in there looking for someone to be more of a physical therapist than a relaxing gentle massage - I was ready for the pain! Margaret worked on me for 90 minutes. She knows how the body works - her family has a tradition in Chinese medicine. Before she even got to my main area of concern - my calves- she started at the top of the tendons in the glutes and worked her way down. By the time she got down there, things were in much better shape that I had expected - they were softened up properly. This was also the hardest, deepest massage I've ever experienced - mostly with her feet digging into to work things out. If you want someone who knows how to actually fix painful, tight, sore spots, she is highly recommended. I will say easily the most outstanding massage of my entire life. Oh, and also the most painful :-) read more

Margaret's massage is unlike any massage I have ever experienced. It can be very uncomfortable, and often leaves me sore. However, the results are definitely worth the pain. I have low back issues with a herniated disc, as well as other damage. This has caused me to gradually lose out on more and more of the things I like to do. After first visiting Margaret, I primarily noticed that I was sore. Then I worked on a school project with my daughter and sat cross legged on the floor for about 6 hours. Previously this would have really hurt my back, and I would have had to take prescription muscle relaxers and painkillers. However, this time, I had no issue. I have since returned to Margaret over 10 times and not only am I able to do much more that I was before, I am also in less pain. I can wholeheartedly recommend Margaret, and the work she does. read more

Was in San Diego on business and was stiff from long flight. Remembered Margaret from previous trip. Easy to find. Great deep tissue work. Highly recommend. read more

In pain? Margaret will make it go away. Really, Margaret is a Natural Healer! Margaret can sense and cure the ailments of your body. Truly, she is trained and knows what she is doing!!! I have chronic pain from an auto accident with a cervical sprain and a herniated disc. Two visits with her have been more effective than 3 months of physical therapy. I never imagined someone could do so much with soft tissue. Acupressure is your friend! I have renewed hopes of surfing and golfing again. Spinal injections are next on the orthopedic's cure list, but that will no longer be necessary. So happy to be in the hands of a natural healer. Thank you Margaret! read more

Hands down the BEST massage I've ever had. It was my first time, so I don't have a history to speak of, but I feel simply put, Margaret is GIFTED in her knowledge of the body. Never once did she grind away on a bone as many massage therapists will do. She just seems to KNOW the origins of pain and affected deep release in my first session with her. read more

I have had chronic shoulder, neck and jaw issues for almost a decade. Currently I live in both Austin and San Diego where I've seen a massage therapist weekly to work on my issues. At the beginning of this month I started seeing Margaret Xie in Sorrento Valley. I have never had someone who could work so deeply and so intuitively and heal me so quickly. Every other massage therapist was too afraid to work deeply on the neck and jaw and could never address my issue at the core. Margaret has really blown me away with her knowledge and therapeutic work. I've referred my husband who has shoulder issues and my mother who has knee problems. Both have raved about her healing ability and strength. Super easy to schedule with, professional and clean private room. If you're in pain, text her now! read more

Excellent therapeutic massage! I've been seeing Margaret once a week for several months now and my chronic problem areas (neck, shoulders, lower back) have much improved. To be clear, this is not your relaxing massage, this is hard body work, often somewhat painful in the moment, but I'm never hurting afterwards, just feel well adjusted. Margaret knows her anatomy and is genuinely interested in helping you and making you feel better. Plus she is very funny! read more

Five stars, as good as it gets is the perfect description for Margaret. She is hands down the best massage therapist I have ever been to. She intuitively knows what your body needs. Whether you're hurt or just need a restorative session, Margaret should be you're number one choice. read more