When things get a little crazy in my work-life, it starts to show in my shoulders. After walking around with a tense perma-shrug, I decided it was time for a massage. So to summarize: I'm not an injured athlete, I'm a stressed-out cubicle monkey. After reading the reviews here on Yelp, I knew not to expect glam surroundings. From the street, this couldn't be more true. I probably wouldn't even notice this place were I not actively looking for it. Inside, I was expecting the level of privacy generally afforded to elementary students at the school nurse's office, so I was pleasantly surprised. Yes, preparing for the massage did involve a brief naked sprint from the bench where I left my clothes to the massage table, but no, no one snuck a peek at Nude-y Helena in the process. Enter, my masseuse. I'd been asked ahead of time if I minded being massaged by a man (as his hands would be stronger to really work the kinks out of my shoulders). I appreciated being asked, as I know that may bother some women. Not I. Right before he starts, I hear him setting a small timer. Nice! None of that 50-minute-hour crap here! This guy knows his stuff. He's kneading and stretching and digging into my poor, sore muscles. This goes beyond your standard massage. As the owners and most of the employees are Chinese, the massage incorporates blissful acupressure. At one point I smell spearmint and he tells me he's rubbing a "medicine" on my shoulders. Bring it on. I hear the curtain part and my masseuse steps out. Is it over? Do I... get dressed? Oh he's back! With... what's this? Whaaa...hot towels. Hot. Towels. Oooohhhhhhhh.... I've melted. I'm liquid-ooh la la la. I'm a bliss-puddle dripping onto the floor. I'm never leaving. The alarm starts to beep - my time is up. My masseuse, however, turns the alarm off and continues. For twenty minutes. A perma-grin replaces my perma-shrug. To heck with Lymphatic Drainage, Hot Stones, and Shea-Butter Infused Towelettes - I'm officially a Pain Stop devotee. read more

I have to give a very mixed review. I've gone here for massages over the years and found it quite fine. The massage here is very good. It's clean and affordable and the staff listens well if you communicate with them. There is one male staff member who others have mentioned is "creepy." He is indeed, and they should not keep him, but they do. That said, I made the mistake of receiving chiropractic treatment from Dr. Choi here. Instead of writing a witty critique I will just plainly say that Choi really injured me during my treatment. He used electricity with acupuncture on a VERY high setting. It was painful during the treatment. Afterward I could not walk or stand upright for a day and had an altered heartbeat. His methods were extreme and not appropriate for someone who had never had acupuncture previously. It took over 2 weeks to recover. When I called to report that i was feeling very ill, he suggested I take a muscle relaxant. So much for Eastern healing! I did not return for a follow up. I found it interesting that no one from the office called me to follow up. I would strongly caution against seeing Dr. Choi. read more

I have been coming to the Pain Stop since 2016. I am a marathon runner. And while I have found massage therapy to be helpful in a general sense, it's necessary during marathon training. Over the years I have been fortunate to have worked with a number of good therapists at the Pain Stop. I like deep tissue massages and that's what they provide. Recently they hired a new therapist named Taylor. She combines deep tissue massage with select elements of Thai massage. The outcome results in not only a very effective deep tissue massage but also really good stretches and a further loosening of muscles and joints. Taylor is an effective therapist who I will continue to use. I highly recommend her. read more

One time I thought I had plantar fuh-shizzle. It was saturday at like 7:30. I'm talking to my roommate and said, "I'm going to get a foot massage, screw this." He was like, "I'm down dude, my feet hurt." I almost went to Chinatown, thinking "reflexology" but did a Yelp search instead and found The Pain Stop up by my house. So I called and asked if they would still be open just for a foot massage. The chinese woman was so nice and said of course they'd be open. We walked in and it looked like a nail salon. My friend wasn't used to the look. I know he was thinking, "Mark's taking me to one of these rub and tug places." Yeah, like that's me. The two ladies were so nice, told us to sit down while the small chinese guy went to the back. He comes back with buckets of hot water, takes my feet and plunges them in to this mixture of ginger smelling jello water. It was so hot, but he wouldn't let my feet up! Hilarious. My friend sitting in the recliner next to me dying, laughing. Then him next. Who's laughing now, round eye? $40 for an hour filled with moments of sheer pain and intense relief on my legs and feet. Theee best. I got the little chinese guy, and he worked his shizzle all over my plantar fah-shizzle. The thing they do when they run their calcified knuckle down your calf muscle - ough, so sweet. My friend never experienced anything like this before, so it was worth it for me to see him happy with wincing pain and amusement at the whole adventure. I'll make this close to a weekly thing, it's that good. Believe me, I spend $40 on some useless crap during the week. That stops. Oriental medicine - what. read more

I was 10 minutes late for my 4:15 appointment. The lobby was dark. The door was locked. I shifted my weight apprehensively as I knocked, waited. A small Chinese woman appeared at the door and ushered me down the herb-enveloped hallway. A man stared at me silently from the sterile lobby as I entered my "room". My appointment was more medical than pampering in intent, so I was unfazed by the anatomy paraphernalia, industrial tile, and plastic-curtained stalls. "Take everything off. Much better. Trust me," she said, gesturing at my lower half. Never propositioned by a small Asian woman before-I obliged. No sooner did my face hit the table then the hands hit my injured, knotted back. For the first 35 minutes, I did not know whether it was man, woman, robot, demon, or angel whose expert hands kneaded, knuckled, pushed, pulled, and manipulated my wound muscles into (semi)submission. The towel was mere suggestion-a five-minute formality-as my winter-white behind was exposed more with each movement. I didn't mind. Her super-human hand strength held me rapt somewhere between heaven and hell for the full 45 minutes. Finally, a real deep tissue massage! I can rub oil on my body to smooth jazz and soy-based candles any night of the week...but what she did with her hands, boiling towels, and herbs had me stumbling out onto Milwaukee Ave in a daze. When I finished my styrofoam cup of water, I didn't know whether to tip the woman or file a restraining order. I guess Stockholm's syndrome got the best of me and I forked over some dough. (Electronically, thankfully. I hate cash-only.) The next day, I felt it. The price you pay for real bodywork. Sore - but worth it for the relief I felt. My injury-induced stiffness may require another beating, but I am happy to say that with prices and results from Pain Stop-I can afford it. read more

Ok I have to rate this place on several things. It is a cheap place to get massages, and the massage therapists do give everything they got. Meaning, strip down to nothing, and lay on the table not covered at all. The therapists (more like torturers) beat and knead you until you are sure that there can't be anything more painful than a massage. I am not sure anymore that this is what I want from a massage. I prefer relaxation with small amounts of pain. I also prefer proper draping techniques while getting massage versus being cold & butt naked for 1 1/2 hour. Btw, the massage therapists there were calling my husband "sissy" because he was asking them to take it easy. Discreetly in chinese of course. read more

I'm not sure quite what I was expecting when I came in here, but I sure was pleasantly surprised (insert happy ending joke here). No, this isn't your father's massage - all Enya, whale noises, and scented candles while you try not to feel awkward that a complete stranger is rubbing oil on places that you didn't know you had. This is a complete flogging of your muscles, the ones that tense up and ache so much that you grew to think that shoulder pain was a body part. A nice Chinese woman greeted me when I walked in - even when I walked in 25 minutes to close (whoops) - and told me to wait a couple minutes. When I got into the room, I saw diagrams of "Acupressure Points" brought to you by the government of the People's Republic of China - a million pressure dots on a human figure. It made me slightly uncomfortable for some reason, but it turns out this is exactly what made the massage. Instead of creating an "atmosphere" and rubbing me down a bit, the awesome masseuse gave me three phases (pre-oil, oil, and hot towel) that had me in another realm for the 45 minutes I was on the table. The value of this place is hard to understate - $50 for 45 minutes was the package I thought the best value. The professional service makes you feel comfortable, the massage makes you feel like a new human being, and you can afford it on a working stiff's (haha) wages. This place just exemplifies the Asian way of thinking: instead of obsessing about a "unique and wonderful experience" like a spa in Lincoln Park might (and charging up the wazoo), the tried-and-true practice of massage in Asia over the centuries has translated into a scientific, standard approach that lends itself to an incredibly refreshing treatment that won't break the bank. read more

THIS PLACE IS NOT A RELAXATION SPA. Just had to get that out of the way. The (very few) negative reviews of this site were made by people who were clearly looking for something that this place is not. The Pain Stop is NOT dainty, frilly, posh, or fancy. Do not come here to be pampered. I only stress this because that is the only reason this place has ANY poor yelp treatment. There was pretty much only ONE thing I could have done without; there was a dude in the room next to mine that was appreciating his therapy just a little too loudly. This lack of privacy did not bother me and I am still five starring this place because the purpose of my visit was a therapeutic massage. And that's what I got - a hardcore deep tissue beat down. I didn't get a good cross section of the staff but the older, bigger Asian lady was who I got and she worked me over like the stepson of an abusive alcoholic. It hurts (like its supposed to), its clean, its cheap, they are accommodating (and take walk-ins), and I feel great. Believe the hype, and understand that the less-than-stellar reviews for this place came from lightweights who didn't do their research on what is clearly a legitimate massage therapy center NOT A fluffy spa getaway joke. Now you know. And knowing is half the battle. read more

When you go here don't expect anything other than what you came for, a massage. This place gets straight to the point. Also you better come fully comfortable getting butt naked. I was set for a 1hr massage at 630p , came in 30 minutes early and since someone canceled, they took me in. The masseuse came out within 1min of me signing the 2page form and had me follow her to a room. Also note, there's not much talking. You basically go in the room,strip and lay face down on the table. As many have said, there are no doors. Each room is covered by a thin white curtain. If you've never been here, think of it as going through the gates of hell to get to heaven. Well that, or you're a frozen chunk of dough and the masseuse is the kneader who greases you up and then beats your back up til' you're nice and soft. Expect to go through some pain to release the pain. Towards the end, you get the final hot towel rubdown. It's a nice touch. If you're thinking "I just need a really good massage, that's all", this place is it. You're in, you're out. The place is quiet with only the mumbled sound of the dryer aaand maybe a couple moans next door, but with what you're going through you won't notice(at least I didn't) 1hr deep tissue massage-$65 I've been here twice, really anyone you get is great.Today I got Yang. She gives a good beating and gets all the kinks out. I will be back! Simple and to the point. read more

I'm sad to say that I have to update this to a lower star rating :-( After quite a few wonderful, deep massages here in the past year my best friend and I went for massages and both had equally PAINFUL massages that are deserving of warning potential yelpers of the dangers of this place. While they can provide a great deep tissue massage, the last time I left here my best friend and I were in severe pain for the next 48 hours, something that should NEVER happen from a massage regardless of the depth. I've had massages from therapists of all kinds and in all parts of the world, from deep tissue to swedish to relaxation and more, some pain is okay if you're working muscles - this was far from that. Their massages can cause damage and I'd hate to have a fellow yelper experience that. Sorry Pain Stop - you caused pain rather than stopping it so it's down to 1 star. read more

Rather than reiterate what everyone else has noted about The Pain Stop, I'll keep it simple: These ladies straddle your body and beat the crap out of you. It's painful. You're butt naked. You may cry. You leave with bruises. It's worth it. read more

I went here after I found it on yelp and I highly recommend checking it out. It definitely seemed authentic (but I'm not the authority on Chinese medicine). This is not a spa at all...rather a Chinese massage therapy clinic. People go here not only for general massages but for specific issues such as back problems. I made an appointment a couple of days before although that probably wasn't necessary. I walked in and was greeted by a very friendly woman who showed me to my room (w/ open ceilings so not quite a room), and was told to undress "all the way" and then went onto the massage table. An older woman wearing a lab coat then proceeded to kneed me w/out oil, then with oil, then with hot towels. She seemed to be concentrating on certain pressure points like in acupuncture (in fact, there were accupoint body maps/posters on the walls) and *really* seemed to know what she was doing. It was intense at times...very high pressure on certain very tense muscles to "maximize the energy flow." She said I mad major tension in my neck and shoulders so she worked on that extra long. Before she even started, she asked if I was there for anything specific and I wasn't but I mentioned some recent tendonitis in my knee. So for the last 5 minutes or so she massaged the knee (intensely) with Chinese herbs. They recently moved to Chicago from NYC and have only been open for 6 months (as of April 23, 2008). Very professional, relatively cheap, and highly recommended. read more

All I wanted was someone to break up the knots in my shoulders. I hate going to massages. Every time I've gone, with the exception on two occasions, I've never gotten what I've asked for, even when I've repeatedly indicated what I would like. This was no different. While I understand that a good massage doesn't focus on one area because everything is interlinked, it's my body and $$$. I didn't realize that I needed an appointment. But for a chair massage I would be accommodated. I was given to Hugh, who talked incessantly. I asked him several times would he be able to break up my knots in my shoulders and he said he would. At the end of 30 mins, I received a hard massage and walked out with my knots. I had to spend extra money for heating pads because I'm still in pain. I choose this place because of the rave reviews and perhaps I should have read them closer and asked for the person everyone praised. But I won't go back again. read more

I had to post on Pain Stop...because I am absolutely shocked that everyone else has given it 5 stars. I didn't enjoy my massage and I didn't feel any better after. First, by "no frills" people mean that you don't even get a blanket. There was a vent right over my table and I was FREEZING the entire time. It was clean though- so points for that. The massage. What should I say here? I regularly get deep tissue massages (abt once every two weeks.) They usually run me about $110 for 50 minutes, so when I read on here I could go for 60 min for $65 dollars and the massage was for getting knots out, feeling better after & not the relaxation of the experience I had to try it. I won't go back. I asked for a deep tissue massage- which generally implies minimal oil- and was absolutely COVERED in oil. I still have major knots in my back. There are 2 types of massage. First, the type you get a "girls day to the spa"- pure relaxation. Second, the type that hurts like hell while you there, but makes you feel so much better afterwards- you sleep better, your more flexible, etc. This wasn't either. My back felt just as crappy by the next day. I certainly wasn't relaxed while I was there. The air conditoning, the lack of blankets, being able to hear every other patron yelling ow-stop!, having myself completly undressed without any warning mid-massage, they BROUGHT another patron in at the end (I was in the room w/ 2 tables.). I mean, seriously. people said this wasn't for the shy, but this was a little much??? also, at the end, they brought out the hot towels and started hitting me with it. It didn't hurt, I was just so creeped out by that point, I was wondering what was going to happen next. The people were so nice that I feel bad writing this review, but it was all the 5 stars that brought me there & felt the need to at least give a different opinion. read more

Stopped in for a massage. It's a no frills type of place, which is fine, but the massage therapist didn't speak or understand English. I have fibromyalgia and asked several times for less pressure. She didn't understand my pulling away either. I paid my $65 and left. This place isn't for me, so I won't be back. read more

No frills deep tissue massage location. This is not a spa. You enter the location, they take you to a room that has thin walls where you can hear the person in the next room, no door (only a curtain), and they ask you if you're comfortable getting completely naked. The folks are nice and attentive but it's a bare bones operation with absolutely no frills. If you enjoy deep tissue no nonsense massages, this is your spot. (Although they will perform the massage to your pain threshold) They also take BCBS insurance. read more

After my beloved masseur had to cancel my appointment last minute,I was desperate to find an alternative as my back was literally in knots (thanks to traveling 24/7 for work). Going down the list of "best massage" in Chicago, no one could fit me that evening. Finally after calling 6 other places, I called The Pain Stop and they were willing to see me w/in the hour. OK, the reason I didn't call them 1st was b/c I was honestly scared of the rawness of the reviews. I enjoy girly, spa like atmospheres that have the faint aroma of patchouli lavender whimsically permeating throughout. Yes, I'm that girl (and don't hate, most of you secretly are too). So I frantically drive there, park easily on a side street, look around inside, and accept that this is my reality for the next 90 minutes. Again, I was prepared (based on reviews) for a sterile, no frills, no fancy pants environment. And no one lied about that. My massage therapist, Judy or June?, comes in, and starts going for it. She pokes around my back with 2 fingers and found the areas of focus immediately w/out even having to ask me. Then like a freaking SPIDER MONKEY, she climbs on top of me, and starts kneading my upper back into submission using her elbow and full arm. I wasn't sure whether to laugh or cry (or both) as it was quite frankly the most painfully pleasurable massage I've ever had. All in all, she spent 70 minutes on my back alone (which is exactly what I was looking for). I tipped her 35% for the mere fact that she full on did work that entire 90 minutes - no laziness here that's for sure. And my back feels like a million bucks thanks to her technique and spider monkey prowess. BEST. MASSAGE. EVER. Note: I didn't say "Beautiful. Luxury. Spa". read more

READ THIS! I'll keep this short and simple...my massuse had a cold; sniffling, coughing, snorting, blew her nose without washing her hands or using anti bacterial gel in the middle of my massage...THEN SNEEZED ON MY BACK. Kept massaging as if nothing happened. The reviews are accurate: no frills place that looks a little scummy, and the pressure is INTENSE. I can take hard pressure, but this actually hurt me, and I honestly think she was using hard pressure to cover up for the fact that she didn't know what she was doing. Never going back! read more

Punch me in the face and call me a masochist! I actually was afraid to ask for the deep tissue because everyone said they got beat up. I had to go against my better judgment and ask for the deep tissue. I'm so glad I did, because it didn't for one instant hurt, nor was I in any sort of pain the next day. The people that work here are very sweet. I came in and was immediately greeted by three people. I didn't have an appointment but that was okay cause there was no one else there. I told them what I wanted and she asked me if it was okay to have a male (because he's one of her better guys). I said, sure...hell what do I care. Their English isn't 100%, but they do their best to explain to you what's happening and they also make sure nothing is wrong (water too hot, pressure too strong, etc.) The place itself is very plain, but you're not paying to see the walls covered in art or fancy lighting. You're paying for a good massage and that's what you'll get. I do have to say that I wish they used something to cover you up when you were getting your massage (they don't cover you with a sheet during the massage, so you're basically laying there completely naked). In the beginning it was more awkward than having to go to the gyno (for you boys imagine how you feel when you hear this phrase "turn your head and cough"). Eventually you'll get too relaxed to care. I'll definitely be back. This place is clean, inexpensive, and friendly. read more

The five stars is for Hue and Amy. Hue had been doing my massage for about a decade. I would not be able to function without his work. He always thoroughly goes over each muscle and reserects my body back into Normal allignment. Thank you Amy for always getting me in. Can't wait to come back again soon! read more

Thank you Kevin A. and Yelp! Last night when I logged in to yelp, I saw the ROTD and mentioned it to my guy who is a massage whore just like me (I ask him if he wants massages just so he can reciprocate...muhaha). Anyways, we decided to go in that night since we both haven't had a professional massage in awhile and man, I got my butt whupped by an old Chinese woman and loved it. More beatings please! I too dislike soft gentle massages and have started thinking of just requesting guys just so I might get a harder massage but now I won't have that problem since I won't be going anywhere else. Please note that this place is not for the shy since they tell you to take off all your clothes. Good thing I'm not shy. Please also note that this place is not for the weak. There were parts of the massage where it hurt but it was the good hurt. She completely worked on my whole body and I thought I only needed a massage for my upper back and shoulders but I am so glad she did everything. And since I don't care about the ambience as much as long as I just get a good hard massage, I am super satisfied with this place. Plus the two ladies are really nice! A little scared but I'm even going to add cupping to my massage next time. read more

If you're looking for some aromatherapy, some frilly talk about your energy, some slow rubdown, go somewhere else. This is the real deal. Oldschool chinese massage therapy at its best. It's gonna hurt like hell and you're gonna love that sweet, sweet pain. The masseuses are trained to find the worst parts on your body and ruthlessly attack th until you can no longer feel the pain. When the massage is done, you'll feel like you're flying. This is the best massage in all Chicago. read more

You will not regret this. I don't get massage to relax, or feel good, or feel one with the universe, or any of that hippie crap. I get it because HOLY CRAP MY BACK IS KILLING ME AND I HATE MY LIFE. Which is what happens when you work 12+ hours at a time and are on your feet and bending and lifting. When this happens, I basically want someone to beat the crap out of me, and those froufrou places can't or won't do it. For that, I turn to ... a little Chinese lady. The little Chinese lady will not do you wrong. She will destroy you and you will thank her for it. It's not a frilly place here. You'll undress, you'l put your face down on a scratchy paper towel, you'll cover with a sheet, and someone will set a timer and start making it hurt so good. Sometimes they'll swap out therapists in the middle because someone has to answer the phone or the door. You'll be able to hear people in the other rooms. But they'll fix you. And it'll be so, so cheap. And you'll babble in gratitude and leave a big tip and promise to come back. read more

So the same friend that I sent to Exhale was in need of another massage a few days later (really rough week for her!) and looking for a last minute place I came to yelp, saw all of the awesome reviews and went with it. This is one of those places where you should not let first impressions (from the outside anyways) cause you to not stop in. I thought it was a shady place when it first opened - people getting rubbed down on chairs in window - just not my style. Sure you may be in a room where it's just a curtain pulled, but you will be in for some serious treatment. The selling point on this place was the one bad review from Viki S who said that a massage shouldn't hurt. Clearly she doesn't know how to speak up, and just wants to go to one of those places where you are in a secluded room being lightly brushed with a palm leaf; but her complaint of it being painful was exactly what my friend would be looking for. She's no wuss to massages and hasn't met a masseuse who can hurt her. She was a ball of knots when she was dropped off and when I picked her up she looked as if she'd just smoked a joint and was ready for a snack. Plus she says they do cupping which is supposed to be really cool. I think I will be walking up there myself soon.... P.S. Viki, I realize that you'd like to be serviced by someone who speaks the same language as you...which I presume is English. Allow me to give you a little grammar lesson - the word "your" is the possessive form of you. This may surprise you, but there is another word, "you're" which is a contraction of you (pronoun) and are (verb). They cannot be used interchangeably. A tip on how to avoid this 5th grade mistake (which, I could forgive one as an oversight, but three times indicates you've (another contraction!) not yet mastered the your v. you're conundrum) is to insert the words "you are" into the sentence and if the sentence still makes sense then you know the contraction of "you're" is appropriate. Also, your point regarding bruising being bad for you is completely off base. In fact, it is quite normal to have some bruising from a deep tissue massage. Think about it, most people who go in for a massage are probably in pain and have taken some kind of medication to assist with the pain - likely a medication that is a blood thinner such as ibuprofen - which would cause even the slightest capillary damage to bleed extensively. Ok, that's all for today's lesson. Go get yourself rubbed by some chick named Tiffany out in Orland Park. read more

I don't really have any new information to add here. I went to the Pain Stop back in June after reading the reviews on Yelp. It was exactly what I expected. The pain of a strong massage is fucking blissful. I also tried cupping. It was a pretty neat feeling, almost uplifting. But it got a little too painful for me, and I'm not sure it added any additional muscle relief. It also left really badass symmetrical bruises from my neck to the small of my back. I looked like I was from the Matrix! I will definitely come back here. I recommend this establishment to friends all the time. I hope they stay around for a long time! read more

This isn't a spa, and the reviewers who don't like this place seem to have thought this is one. And this isn't a place where you'll get a gentle rub down. It hurts like hell - but it hurts so good. But you can't be shy. Parts of your body will be exposed and they won't put the sheet back on. The masseuse will hop on the table and sit on your butt too. But if you have serious knots, this is a serious solution - just not the prettiest, most relaxing process. read more

Intense neck & shoulder pain resulted in a yelp search to find a reliable massage place. I read every single review on here before my first visit, and thank god I did, because I think I would have been a little confused at times had I not. I have been here twice now for the 45 minute accupressure massage, and I can say that it is not as scary or painful as some people make it out to be. Yes- they demand you wear your birthday suit, and yes- "I" of course enjoy that, as part of "my' total relaxation process. As far as the intensity level goes, it can be a little rough at times, but they are really good about trying to feel out your comfort level. Anytime I flinched or moaned she asked if she should tone it down for me, but my theory is No pain, no gain... bring it on. Let me take a moment to give justice to how awesome the massage is. The woman started at what I would call my "epicenter", the culprit of all aches in my neck and shoulders, and she spent a lot of time trying to work out the kinks there. Then she got every other bit of your back side- arms, hands, legs, feet, and yes- (the rear). This is probably my favorite thing about the massage, they touch and try to find places that you didn't realize needed attention, but honestly do. I had no idea that my arms and legs were so tense! Also, they will take on any angle to work out a kink- true dedication is getting up on the table and using all of your body weight to put the pressure on a knot! Towards the end of the massage they do a good job of working out all of the bad energy released by moving their way down the arms/ legs down to the hands/ feet, and finally fingers/toes. When they snap my knuckles I feel like they had just done the exorcism of bad energy from within my body. It's incredibly rejuvenating. The end of the massage is where it's at- HOT Towels & a head massage! The hot towel warms up your muscles and then they massage through the towel, again, hitting ALL the right places, working from the feet up giving a towel to each side and section. Then it ends with a quasi-rough head massage (don't try and do your hair all fancy before you come, they'll screw it up- But it's definitely worth it), and last, but not least, a timer that beeps to assure you have gotten your times worth. Overall: Not painful or awkward. These ladies know what they are doing- Asians always get it right and charge way less, why would you consider going anywhere else? read more

So, I'm probably the most anxious person that I know...I got issues. Unfortunately, much of my stress manifests itself in my body, particularly my back and shoulders. Upon orders from my doctor, it was time to get a massage. I googled and asked friends and came to the conclusion that Pain Stop would be a good option for me. I'm not really into the whole fancy shmancy spa treatment thing, I much prefer to just get the shit beat out of me and come out of a message feeling like I'm on cloud 9. Perfect! Pain Stop was absolutey perfect for this. I get buck naked and lay down on the table not sure what to expect. I actually never saw the massage therapist while she was doing her thing. All I know was that this women was strong and good at what she did. I don't think she was going to let me outta there with a sore muscle or knot. She was thourough and addressed each and every muscle on my body. I could feel the stress rushing out of body with every squeeze, push and rub. Absolutely amazing! And...lets talk about affordable. I paid 65 buck for an hour...now that is something we can all afford to do every few weeks. Great staff, great message, great price! That means a return visit for me for sure! read more

I've gone twice because each time I was in a pinch and needed to get in somewhere fast to get relief, and they were the only ones open. First time I went I'd give a 7 of 10. Not bad, not amazing. She did pretty traditional sweetish massage with oil and she relieved my messed up back a bit. Yesterday I went in and got a massage from a guy for my stiff neck. I guess he helped a little. But his technique was totally different. No oil. Everything was through a sheet. He didn't speak English, though he could understand the essentials like "too hard" or "that's good" etc. I'd rate his massage a 6 or 7 out of 10. And he focused on my neck which I told them was hurting, so that was good. I asked the woman at the desk about the variation of massage styles. She said that it is all "deep tissue massage" but "each therapist has his or her own style." I'm sorry, but if I'm going to pay 60 bucks or more to have a stranger work on me I at least have to have an idea of what they will be doing. Where is the standard? Crazy. The place is awfully austere as the others have said. No fragrant oils.:-) No doors. Just some curtains. If I'm desperate maybe I'd go again but the place ain't the best. It will not be my first choice. read more

It was a weird experience for me. Never had a deep tissue or an accupressure massage. I got there they asked my name then said go into a room and strip down. Then the guy came in and started the massage w/out saying anything. Some parts were nice, some parts I thought he was just being mean (using his elbow to jame my musclue into my bones). The whole massage was done with his forearm and elbows. I thought it was decent until it was over and I stood up. I have never felt like that before, I guess my blood was flowing more freely, but I felt really good in a weird way. I was trying to figure out what I was feeling I felt I was bad at communicating but totally relaxed for an hour afterwards. Right after I finished, the massage therapist asked if I enjoyed the massage and I said, "yeah." He said, "Your back was tight" (which is why I went in). I said 'yeah'. He said yeah I went, "Boom! Boom!" then he smacked his hands together. I laughed and he said it once or twice more. I didn't really remember him going boom, boom smack, but i don't doubt it. Overall, I recommend it for an intense elbowy/massagy experience followed by a weird bliss. read more

This is NOT a frilly spa massage place. I was looking for a spa type setting. But boy oh boy was i in for a surprise. I swear I was laying down for a massage in this little white room, (was not private feeling at all) That didn't bother me much however, next thing I know my panties where under my ass and my masseuse was on top of the table, my towel was covering the back of my knees. I WAS having a mini heart attack. But all was well and this massage was amazing. No lines were crossed everything was very professional. I just was not expecting that haha This was one of the best massages I have ever gotten. I felt incredibly beat up but the next day my back better than it has felt in a VERY long time. read more

Fabulous. I got an hour long massage the other day and am still pain free. It was nice, but as others have said slightly rough...No pain no gain!! This is no frills massage heaven! I will be returning for sure, as I was told that after a few more treatments the giant knots in my back would be gone!! Don't forget the secret herbal medicine she rubbed on there...Don't know what it was and I totally don't care!!! Awesome stuff!!! read more

My first massage here was a couple of years ago, and since then I haven't wanted to go anyplace else. As most previous reviewers have warned, this isn't a froufrou spa, you just walk in, get naked, and a stranger comes in the room and fixes your body. The fixing doesn't always feel good; sometimes you have to breathe through it. You can ask for less pressure, but in my experience, a little pain makes for a more thorough massage. I've been here 5 or 6 times and never had a bad experience. Today I got someone named Choi? Choy? and he cracked me a little, he is a chiropractor. So if you are into that stuff, ask for him. I enjoyed it. read more

If you like your massages extremely hard, fast and deep then this is the place for you! I woke up a couple days ago with the knots in my neck and shoulders that hurt to the point of being unable to look up or turn to the right. After three days, I started to look up remedies and remembered reading about The Pain Stop. Most people wouldn't step foot into this place based on the appearance alone but I'm really glad I did. The lady at the front (Maggie) took 1 minute to ask me what areas were bothering me and off to the back room I went. Even though I asked for a "chair" massage, I was asked to lie on the massage table and just remove my shirt. No problem. The woman that started the massage was good but I needed a little more tough love on the problem areas so Maggie took over. WOW, so THIS is the pain everyone was yelping about. She really got in there and kept asking "can you handle it, can you!?" to make sure I wasn't passed out from the pain. I think I was able to squeal "yes" because she continued to do her thing. I'm not gonna lie, it hurt, but it was the good kind of hurt, the kind of hurt that gets rid of your knots if you suck it up for a bit. Bottom line is that aside from some bruising on my back, which I was warned about, I feel 90% better than I did last night and I'll be going back again at the end of the week to work out more of these stubborn knots. NOTE: They are able to adjust the pressure so it isn't too hard for those of you that are a little more sensitive. So, don't be frightened to go in; just don't expect a spa-type treatment. read more

WOW. I've had a lot of massages from many different places in my lifetime. It wasn't until I visited Pain Stop today that I realized that I never truly had a real, good massage. This place is no joke, the women are strong! I swear my masseuse felt like she could curl 25 pound dumbells with her fingers! She hit points on my body I never knew existed, and the deep-tissue rubs did just that, hit my deep tissues (as opposed to other places, where they should call it surface-tissue massages). I came into this place with a nasty headache, and afterwards I walked out feeling completely healed. I had the 45 min massage (which btw at $50 is a bargain), and it actually felt longer! Too many times in the past massages would fly by (i.e. an hour and half massage felt like 30 min). Fan-friggin-tastic! Can't wait to go again...and again....and again.... read more

I can't live without this place! I love my massages painful and that's what you can get here (if you prefer). The prices are reasonable which is a huge reason why I keep returning! And, I can usually get parking on the street which is another huge plus. This place feels like a doctor's office - clean/sterile like & professional - nothing frilly or spa like at all. The foot massages are to die for! They soak your foot in this herbal hot water before they massage your feet which is awesome! I wish I could just get this foot soak with other services as add ons. These people know what they are doing! The chair massages that I've had there are very good as well. The full body massages weren't the best I've ever received - maybe I need to emphasize that I want it harder. They close at 8pm but if you call - they'll stay open for you. The hardest working bunch ever. read more

If you are looking for the best Deep Tissue Massage place in Chicago. Then you have found it. I cannot recommend this place enough! I have had three different masseuse's here, and they have each been excellent! They apply just the right amount of pressure for your body type, almost without you having to say harder or softer, which I've found almost no where else. Additionally, they have a very balanced treatment approach, so that you never feel one side of your is getting all the attention. As a person who works out extensively and suffers from various aches and pains, I won't go anywhere else! Check it out and you will feel the same! Aslo, prices are reasonable! read more

One of the best massages I've ever had. I will say that if you are modest you will not enjoy yourself. As soon as my masseuse came in she pulled down my underwear to work on my butt. There is a bit of a language barrier but she did make sure I was okay. It is definitely and medicinal massage. When they say that they will get your nots out its no joke. Some of it was uncomfortable but never painful. If you have a low pain tolerance I wouldn't suggest it. The atmosphere is very bleak. They is only a curtain in the doorway. All in all its just a place to get a very good massage for tight backs. read more

I have been a devotee of The Pain Stop for years now. I was originally sent there by my pilates instructor to ease the tension I habitually carry in my neck and shoulders. I now get a monthly massage (I bought the year package and with prices as low as theirs, how can you not?) and benefit from the acupressure massage beyond just easing muscle pain & tension. The Pain Stop looks very clinical to me and smells wonderfully of White Flower (Chinese herbs). I've gone in there with a migraine that had me in agony for 2 days but dissipated under the strong hands of Maggie, my favorite masseuse. An elderly Aunt of mine was suffering from gout while in town for a visit so I brought her in and after a quick 30 minute foot massage, was pain-free and able to walk without her previous gimpy gait. I have even gone in there just achy all over, feeling awful and running a slight fever. I don't know about pressure points and how they relate to the functionality of our organs and our bodies as a whole, I just know I left there fever-free and feeling soooooo much better. I love The Pain Stop and so do my family and friends. My husband gets injured practicing jiu jitsu and goes there along with his teammates to realign whatever goes out of joint when you're stuck in some hold - arm bar? kamura? So whether you are an athlete with injuries or just stressed out, I highly recommend The Pain Stop. It will be your last stop for the best acupressure massage ever. read more

What you need to know: Cons: there is some awkwardness regarding the fact that you're totally naked and not always covered, that they have no problem rubbing your glutes, and that your rear end is pointed straight toward the door to the hallway. And by door I mean curtain. Simply put, you're not in a salon. Pros: this is so much better than any massage you've had in a salon, and for far less money. She did things to my shoulders that I felt in my feet. I realized at one point that I was drooling. And I didn't care. It seemed right. There's a part with hot towels that will make you feel good about life. Just go - be prepared for some awkwardness, but go. read more