Skill compassion knowledge caring. I was diagnosed years back from Prostate Cancer treatment with PTSD I then had long COVID, which was a nightmare and had the same time undiagnosed.L y m e disease. Months later, Uber driver hit me while on my motorcycle sent me to the hospital wheelchair for 4 months.Broken bones brain trauma injury , I am a professional dancer and dance teacher and it has been hell. Michael did some wonderful things today.And I am very excited to work with him again. He gave me hope , and I have not had hope in seven years. read more

I've been seeing Micheal for several reasons and it has been so informative and helpful to work with him. He has been helping me with physical limitations I've always had (knee problem and low back issues) in addition to having a variety of therapies available for my nervous system. He also has an amazing online class/group he put together to help people understand the reasons our body may be responding the way it is, and how we can make changes. I highly recommend him! read more

Michael Westgate is a miracle worker, and that is not an exaggeration! After 11 years of no success (and with great Drs, acupuncturists, and massage therapists) the work with Michael has worked! It is really important that I convey how much Michael cares! I think he feels as much joy at our results as I do, if that is possible! I had spinal fusion surgery in 2007, the surgery was a success in that it stopped the numbness and strength loss I was experiencing, however I have been in constant pain since. I've done everything imaginable to fix or even reduce this pain including medication, epidurals, injections, physical therapy, extensive massage, acupuncture, Botox injections in my neck, a neuro-stimulator implant, and a lot more. For over 11 years I have tried everything suggested with absolutely no change to my pain (level 7 to 8 at all times). Because of Michael, my pain has reduced to a level 3-4 and I can't even express the joy I have in my life again. Because of the fusion surgery, chiropractic care was not an option, but Michael has been able to do adjustments that WORK! His professionalism and knowledge is admirable, and he is constantly searching for more ways to improve what he can do. I can't say enough to express my appreciation for Michael Westgate! read more

Michael Westgate saved my life. My chronic lower back pain was disabling. I could not care for my young children, participate in family activities, and certainly could not enjoy life. I took about 13 pills a day to keep the pain at bay (a daily combination of Opioids, Meloxicam, Tylenol, and Amitriptyline ). The pain was constant and excruciating, I was losing weight, and I was suffering. My life was not worth living. Feeling hopeless and scared, I "toured" the nation for 18 months, going from specialist to specialist, seeking help from the industry's best doctors. This saga included sending my MRI and information to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. None of the doctors, chiropractors, acupuncturists, natural paths, physical therapists, or top-ranking surgeons could explain or help resolve my lower back pain. I had tried 'everything,' or so it seemed. Then, I met Michael Westgate, and he did two things for me. One, he provided immediate relief through trigger point therapy. Two, he didn't give up on me. He worked with me, trying one thing after another until he solved the 'puzzle' of my pain. This included beneficial virtual sessions that we schedule while I was on vacation. This puzzle is complex (and best explained by Michael). Most importantly, Michael won't stop until your pain is resolved. My issue wasn't fixed overnight, but after seeing Michael for nearly a year, I'm back to living and enjoying life without pain medicine. read more

Michael is a master at his craft. His demeanor is warm, he's extraordinarily knowledgable and he makes you feel that you are in good hands. The table he uses is very comfortable and I could've taken a nap on it, it felt so good to be worked on. I liked that he was able to explain what was happening in my body as he was working on my neck, back and core. I left feeling lighter and more in tune with my body. I highly recommend Michael if you're experiencing acute or chronic pain or have experienced whiplash from a car accident. See for yourself and enjoy! read more

My dad Ray (age 73) was visiting from Ireland for three weeks. He loves doing yard work and was hacking away at Scotch Broom, lifting logs and moving rocks as if he were 20 years old. After a few days I noticed he was in a bit of back pain. A friend of mine had used Westgate after a car accident, so I suggested my dad see him. Michael was very patient and a great listener. Since my dad was visiting it was not practical to schedule multiple treatments, Instead my father was taught exercises that he could use every day, anywhere in the world. My dad is the biggest skeptic around, now he is a believer, if you or someone you know is experiencing, Neck and shoulder pain, Back pain, Carpal tunnel, Frozen shoulder, Headaches,Foot and heel pain, or Knee Pain. Have them see Michael ASAP. Avoid Surgery and see Westgate, he is the real deal! read more

My first experience with Westgate was when I was having knee pain. I kept thinking more yoga would help. It didn't. I'd had surgery on the knee and was worried that I would need to go under the knife again. I was amazed when he worked on all these areas around the knee and not on the knee itself. But, sure enough after just a couple of sessions the pain was gone. I felt like he saved me from having surgery! I have since used his service when muscle pain has kept me from doing yoga, specifically shoulders and hips. I had never heard of 'trigger point therapy' but it is a godsend! Michael also teaches classes on how it works and how we can use the techniques to work on ourselves. read more

After a back injury threatened to derail my life, I was lucky to find Michael Westgate through a friends recommendation. Following my injury when nothing seemed to help, I saw Michael sometimes twice a week because his unique neuromuscular work was one of the only things that provided relief. The work I did with Michael paid off as I am now living a lifestyle I could imagine during the nadir of my injury. Michael's work was more than palliative, it allowed me to be stay active and facilitated a very significant recovery in my back. In addition to being a talented practitioner, Michael reinforced a patient approach to my healing process which paid off. He is personable and caring. Michael combines his extensive training in human biology, physiology, diet and even fine art to help his patients. I highly recommend Michael Westgate. read more

Fixed in just 6 sessions! I write very few reviews, but when I get AMAZING SERVICE (something rare in this world today), I SHOUT IT FROM A MOUNTAIN TOP! I was referred to Michael for some treatment for pain in my chins, legs, and hips a few years ago by my nutritionist, Willie Victor of Essentials for Health in Corte Madera. My experience was fantastic! Michael was patient, informative in his explanations of "why flip flops were no longer my friend" (bummer), and with a few treatments and some at-home exercises, my problems were fixed. Michael would always make jokes about my "Extreme Body", as I push myself to my limits and my body takes a pretty brutal beating for this. This time, I was having hand pain and upper arm/shoulder pain and figured I tore my rotator cuff, yikes)! Off to see Michael again. (Dang computer posture was the culprit, but no surgery needed, yeah)! On our 4th session, I could really see a difference, and on the 5th session I emailed Michael because my pain was gone. (Apparently, I need to stretch out this "getting older" Extreme Body of mine...Really? Go figure)! Michael's treatments were fantastic, but the best part was that he sent me home with exercises to "fix myself" and he praised me for actually doing those exercises, so that I was not having to commit to weekly sessions with him ("if" I did the work at home - IF being the operative word). Michael's goal is to get you "off his table". He truly has a motivation to HELP his clients feel great and to get better - to get healthy. When I tweak out my body (with my Extreme "Go Go Go lifestyle" of selling Real Estate), it is reassuring to know that when I go see Michael, he always addresses the problem immediately, but gives me a goal to help to "fix myself". He has a great attitude about life, health, fitness, nutrition, balance, and having overall happiness in your life. Now, I'm learning to calm my mind through meditation and even trying yoga for stretching. Michael opened me up to these ideas by referring me to classes, and even though I have never considered myself to be a "Woo-Woo" person, I am really enjoying these options for "taking care of myself first". What a concept, eh? Got pain? Go see Michael first. I promise you will not be disappointed and will want to shout YOUR STORY from a mountain top, too! Candace Nordstrom, Marin County Realtor, www.CandaceNordstrom.com read more

Ok...52 year old guy thinks he wants to run a marathon...I know you all are thinking "Mid life Crisis"...but I can't afford the Maserati so... I start a training program and actually FOLLOW it, gently running progressively a little more each week until: serious calf pain, and I'm not running and following my training program. Not only did two sessions alleviate the calf pain, but Michael's unparalleled knowledge of the mechanics of running and his masterful approach to the treatment of muscle pain are unmatched in my 40+ years of receiving bodywork in every modality. Michael also has referred me on to a natural running coach so as to not re-injure myself and correct any habits that might have contributed to the dysfunction. If you have any kind of muscle pain and need to have mobility restored and get back to a vocational or recreational activity, schedule an appt. with Michael. read more

Although I have no specific physical pain, I have felt moderately-to-severely crappy every day for the past 3 decades. I have been thoroughly examined by an unbelievably wide variety of (expensive) experts, both mainstream (neurologists, osteopaths, psychiatrists, internists, etc.) and nontraditional varieties. I have dutifully gone along with their recommended medications, dietary restrictions, supplements, & other regiments for the prescribed durations . . . Nothing has helped, at least not for more than a few days. After seeing Michael a few times, I have rediscovered how good it can feel just to be truly alive & present in my body. I am not exaggerating. I feel healthier (emotionally and physically) and happier in my mid-60s than any time since my 30s. AND I'm not doing any homework/workouts/restrictions. If you've read "The Other Side of Impossible" and identified as someone who is "determined" to find healthfulness, I highly recommend giving Michael a try. read more

In October 2017, I ended up hurting my shoulder during the Tubbs Fire evacuations. There was no time to think about getting it fixed as we were working day and night for that week straight. I had heard of many kind and generous therapist, practitioners, and health professionals offering their services for victims and first responders. Michael Westgate was one of them but also, came highly recommended among my other health circle. I was terrified about the possibility of needing the "s" word (surgery) but the lack of mobility was keeping me from work. After my first visit, I not only felt hope but I learned so much about the details of injury and the muscles related. Ultimately, I hurt my shoulder pretty good and thanks to Michael, over the course of a few months, I didn't need to take it any further. Phew! And with my fixed shoulder, I give a big high five to Michael Westgate! read more

Michael is great and passionate about what he does. I have had back problems since I was a teen and have had 3 surgeries. I've tried every known body work modality, and Michael not only found a significant trigger point that was a major factor in my back pain, but taught me how to treat it myself! Since then I have been much more stable, consistent and have had no spasms or setbacks. I recommend his therapy and his classes highly! read more

I may have posted before for Michael Westgate. I used him a few years ago for hip pain. The pain is back and I was referred to Physical Therapy which did not good and actually increased my pain. I saw Michael last weekend for a treatment and I am already feeling better. Knowing this happened in the past I think two or three more treatments with Michael and I will feel good again just like before. I think Michael is very very good at what he does. Suzanne read more

I've been having some issues with night time hip aches this year. After a particularly rigorous hike several days ago, it snowballed into such severe hip pain that I got no sleep and was not able to fully bear weight on my right leg. Not only did Michael get rid of the pain; but last night was the first night in almost a year that I had zero night time hip aches waking me up. This is likely a ligament/tendon issue as opposed to my hip joint. That is Michael's magic: ligaments, tendons and muscles. read more

Westgate is a professional (and magical) no-nonsense place to get your muscles back in working order! This is muscle therapy at its finest. I could not put weight on my knee, I tried every thing and nothing helped. Finally I went to see Michael Westgate. After some tests, and a bit of prodding he found a very painful point in my shoulder blade. It hurt more then my non-weight bearing knee. After a bit of work behind that shoulder, suddenly my knee didn't hurt. I could actually walk like a normal person again...It was kind of like Magic! read more

Michael has been a lifesaver. I went to him as I was having issues with my achilles (old basketball injury) that was preventing me from running and with my surgically repaired shoulder that was hurting a lot (I was not able to do upper body exercises without pain). Michael was able to resolve all my issues in a few sessions and I was shocked and amazed to be pain free for the first time in 5 years. He also showed me a number of stretches that helped me loosen up my ridiculously unflexible body. I have worked with a number of physical therapists, personal trainers and massage therapists over the years and can tell good from bad. Michael is very experienced, knows exactly what he is doing, is effective and to top it all of, is a really nice guy and fun to talk with during sessions. I highly recommend Michael for anyone that has been having chronic pain or needs to address body issues. Although Michael doesn't take insurance, he provided me with the documentation I needed to submit my sessions to my insurance provider. read more

I went to see Mr. Westgate for hip pain and tension. He is not only extremely knowledgable but also has a very compelling demeanor and bed side manner. This guy cares. He offered useful exercises and resources. His interest in developing his skills really impressed me. I feel very confident recommending Westgate Therapy, he leads with his heart not his ego: Willing to enter into a collaboration so I know what he`s doing and why, where I need to focus my attention and how I might be contributing to the trouble in the first place. He made appropriate referrals to help me get to the place I needed to with my progress. Schedule an appointment! read more

After 40 years of lower back pain, many different chiropractors treating me off and on for 30 years (one of whom said there was a congenital deformity of the lowest vertebra, and it was twisted 90 degrees!), 3 acupuncturists, 2 doctors specializing in spines, massage, stretching, yoga . . . I was referred to Michael for a problem I had and mentioned this chronic back problem, sort of in passing, with no expectations. Michael figured out that the back pain came from tight muscles in my hips! He "released" the tight muscle by finding the "trigger point" and pressing. I suddenly went from laying on the floor with my feet up several nights a week, not being able to stand more than a few minutes at a time, constant aching to normal! He even taught me how to fix it myself if I tweak something, help someone move, etc. I feel so lucky to have Michael around to help get rid of aches and pains or fix it so iI just don't get them anymore. He is definitely a therapist. This isn't a feel-good relaxing massage. It will hurt during treatment, but not afterward. Michael won't put you on a treatment protocol that never ends as so many chiropractors do. If he can't help in a few treatments, he politely suggests other options. It's too bad the treatments aren't coved by insurance, but I spent thousands and thousands on co-pays and deductibles for the chiropractors and doctors who were ineffective. read more

When I hurt my back, I was in awful shape, desperate. I later found out I had a bulging disk in my neck, but I didn't know it at the time. All I knew was that I was in awful pain, my back muscles were in complete spasm, I was twisted and broken, and I was worried. My nutritionist recommended Michael. We spoke on the phone, and he heard the concern in my voice. He made time for me on a weekend, which I know was a huge favor. He's a busy guy. I immediately liked him a lot, and after one visit, I showed improvement. I had hope. Over the next few weeks I saw Michael seven or eight times, and he healed me. He's incredibly knowledgeable, and he's a detective, looking for the causes of injury and pain. The MRI still shows a bulging disk, but I have no pain. I'm back to normal. And while I also eventually saw a PT, an acupuncturist, and some others, I know that Michael was the primary factor in my recovery. I cannot recommend him highly enough. read more

I came to Michael with back pain that I have just dealt with for years, i was convinced i would live the rest of my life with a pinching pain in my back and hips - but after one appointment I was pain free! It was the most spectacular feeling in the world to stand up and not worry about my mobility and that shocking pain i would get. I was so impressed I sent my business partner to him and he was able to help her back and shoulder pain. I am a true believer in what Michael practices and would refer any and everybody to him. He's professional yet fun at the same time which is a plus for me. Location is also amazing! Easy to find parking and hop back on the freeway. read more

After a 6 month stint at Barre exercise class, my feet/heels were so painful that I could barely walk! I went to Michael to try and help me. I didn't know what to expect. Michael did some exploration on my feet and legs and knew exactly what ligaments and muscles to work on to give me pain relief. He also did a micro-current therapy session on my tight calf muscles. After 3 visits, I felt almost normal again. I have been going every so often to keep painfree. I am so glad to have met and used Michael at Westgate Therapy. I highly recommend him. read more

Michael Westgate worked on my hip for about three sessions. The hip pain is almost completely gone and I feel so much better. I can walk without limping read more

My back has never felt better. Westgate is truly the best place to go for your aches and pains. Did I mention the atmosphere? Super comfortable and relaxing. I am a lifetime fan. read more

I have seen many professionals regarding my lower back and hip issues but the owner of Westgate Therapy Michael, is the only one that connected a surgery that I had had over 5 years ago to my problems. He is very knowledgable and intuitive when comes to muscle and pain therapy. Thank you Michael for solving the riddle of my back and getting me on the road to recovery! read more

Michael is not only knowledgeable and great at what he does, but also approachable, relaxed, calm and collected, which is a demeanor you'd want from a healer when you're in pain. I highly recommend him. read more

I have seen Michael Westgate for elbo (kitesurfing) and shoulder issues (monkey bars with my 7 year old). He makes noticeable improvements on the first visit, gives you exercises, and stops treating you when you are better. He is knowledgeable and well trained. A true body mechanic. Very systematic approach to zero in on the problem. Sometimes the real cause is not located where symptom is. He takes a big picture approach and discusses diet, stress, repetitive motion, posture, gate... I strongly recommend that you visit Westgate before you go under the knife. By performing some movement/resistant tests he can tell you if he can help you. I will say that his therapy is not the kind of relaxing therapy that you will fall a sleep while on his table but you will leave relieved. A friend of mine recently had a shoulder surgery that took months of recovery before returning to mountain biking. I wish that I could have told him about Westgate before the surgery. It would be worth a try. It worked for me. Thanks Michael. read more

Michael provides exceptional service which is amongst the best I've experienced. I've been to many other bodyworkers over the past 25 years. What I look for besides technical competance is an intuitive understanding, insight and professionalism. Michael specializes in working with extremely active people, people that don't want to miss a day of life due to strains and pains. He will get you back in your groove quickly, so go! read more

I was referred to Michael in November 2014 after an auto accident in which a car hit the left side of my car AND THEN, less than a second later the right side of my car was hit by another car. I started to experience all these minor aches and pains that started to become major aches and pains. I felt my "alignment" was out of whack. Michael traced the symptoms I was having back to the source of the pain and worked on my muscles and ligaments at the source. I felt amazingly "pain free" after a couple of sessions. I'm so grateful that I was referred to Michael. I can highly recommend him. Don't settle for being in pain. See Michael. read more

Michael Westgate is an expert healer and a the top of his field. Recently, I went to Michael the day before a ski trip with a 3-year old knee injury. I was hoping to ski the next day but wasn't really confident that my knee would be in good shape. In one treatment he helped me ski the very next day! I have an acupuncture practice and send my patients to Michael to get out of pain quickly. read more

Michael is a fantastic therapist! I felt like a new person each time he worked on me. He's professional and intuitive in his work - easy, funny and friendly! I highly recommend him! read more

Michael helped me get my arms back, while struggling with two frozen shoulders which is absolutely PRICELESS. If you understand what it is like to live in PAIN and want to really get some down to earth help that resolves the issue GO SEE THIS MAN, I highly recommend him! He is a knowledgeable GEM. read more

Michael is amazing. I came in after having been in pain on-and-off for nearly two years and solidly for about 3 months. I was at the end of my rope, and my wedding was only four months away. I left my first session pain-free for the first time in months. It was such an incredible relief. I've continued sessions as needed and while identifying triggers and making necessary changes is an ongoing journey, I continue to have great results. I highly recommend Michael to anyone with chronic pain. He's knowledgeable, capable, caring, and full of great suggestions and advice. read more

Too much time at the computer and a slacking exercising routine led to debilitating pain in my right shoulder, neck and arm. I went a month thinking that I might not be able to work anymore as each day was just a test of misery as I grappled with the mouse at my desk. Michael quickly assessed the root of my pain and began working the tissue to help loosen up the crepitus that had crept in. After 2 sessions my pain had descreased by 80% and now after 4 sessions I am seriously, nearly pain free. Amazing. He showed me many things I could do for myself at home to keep things on track. I am so grateful to have found him! read more

For the first time in 6 months, my shoulder does not hurt today. Poor posture, repetitive movements (think lifting heavy toddler), and not working out regularly since having said toddler put me in a world of hurt. I tried PT but it wasn't until I started seeing Michael Westgate that things started feeling better. I'm fascinated with his technique and thrilled at the progress I've made since working with him. I also really enjoy him as a person and look forward to spending an hour talking with him. read more

I injured my back badly playing Basketball. I noticed an improvement after one session with Michael Westgate. 3 sessions later and I was able to get back into the gym. The whole rehab took less than 4 weeks, after I had spent the previous 2 months out of commission. read more

I first went to Michael eight years ago after developing tendonitis when writing my thesis. He completely fixed me, which allowed me to finish my degree. About two years ago, I injured my knee when training for the AIDS Life Cycle. I did physical therapy for ten months, had an MRI, cortisone injection and was still in pain. I finally remembered Michael and started going. It's been about three months of seeing him and I have NO PAIN. I was seriously preparing myself to cope with the knee pain as a chronic condition. He's incredible! If you're having pain, I *highly* recommend seeing Michael. It's not a traditional massage; google trigger point therapy and look at Michael's website for what to expect. Wear loose comfortable clothing and be prepared to experience some pain- finding the right trigger points is initially painful, but it does improve. Also, keep going back! Michael doesn't try to keep patients in therapy forever; it's his goal to help people improve and stop coming to him. read more

I am forever indebted to Michael for his amazing work. After spending hundreds of dollars on different therapists, researching on google, trying different stretches, I found Michael. I legit thought I was going to live with this lower back/glute pain forever. For someone who has worked out consistently to not being able to be active in fear of further injuring myself, I was in a depressed hopeless state. It's now been 4 sessions and I am able to work out without this nagging pain! I almost want to pinch myself because it's been months with this. Michael is thorough in finding the cause. He truly cares. I fully trust in him and I want everyone to see him. If you're living with an injury that you can't stretch out, please see him! I waited till I felt recovered to write this review. I am so happy I am back to my active life!!! read more

I've had chronic back pain and dysfunction for all of my adult life. After having tried basically every type of physical therapy, the treatments Michael has provided are the only treatments that have ever made any long term improvements. As the issues with my back and hip have improved, Michael has consistently adjusted his treatment to address new and different issues as they have arisen. Just within the last couple months, we seemed to have turned a corner in my treatment and I'm confident I am well on my way to full functionality, which is something I never thought possible a couple years ago. The trigger point therapy that is the core of his practice focuses on 'reteaching' the muscles and body to function properly (rather than focusing on a short-term fix as so many other types of treatment do), which has provided for more lasting long-term results. read more

Michael has worked on my family, my clients and on myself. He has a unique talent to relieve pain by using muscle release therapy. He knows the pathways for each muscle group and by working on that pathway pain resolves. I feel confident when I send clients that he will only do the amount of work needed and that he will not treat those that he feels his work will not benefit. read more