I've been seeing Gary at The Massage Garage on and off for over 6 years, and I cannot recommend his services enough. I was originally referred to him for chronic knee pain caused by years of restaurant work. Thanks to Gary's expertise, not only did my pain disappear, but he also taught me techniques to prevent future injuries. More recently, I returned to see him following major shoulder surgery. His work was instrumental in helping me regain my mobility during recovery. Whether you're dealing with chronic pain, recovering from surgery, or just want your body to perform at its best, Gary is the person to see! read more

Everything is first-rate. I can move so much better with less pain. Going back for more visits! GARY is so knowledgeable! read more

The Massage Garage - Massage Therapy Near Me - San Francisco, California

I recommend Gary as a very effective, knowledgeable, intuitive & kind practitioner. I was initially sent to him for foot problems (on the recommendation of my podiatrist). But he has dealt adeptly with many other body parts. In addition to releasing pain, he can realign the body & give advice on maintaining balance. Along the way, I've also experienced substantial releases of "trapped energy." read more

He does an amazing job educating you on how all the parts of your body are connected and what is causing your pain. Not only is the hand-on care wonderful but he gives you things you can do daily to decrease your pain/improve the area(s) of your body. I have learned so much from him and pain is dissipating. Already recommended him to 2 friends. read more

I started looking for a massage therapist once I started weightlifting and noticed that I had aches and sore spots after a workout. I met Gary at his old office, have been seeing him for years, and my wife now sees him for running issues. Gary's a true star. He knows every single muscle in the human body and can tell you how they all fit together and how. He can identify problems and sticking points just by watching you walk around. Gary's style is not for the meek -- he'll find where it hurts and then ask you to breath into it. I've had bits where I've had tears in my eyes during, but it always feels so much better afterwards. read more

I had my first appointment with Gary today. I'd never left an integral body appointment feeling so alive and well in my body. I went in thinking I had very little discomfort, but Gary saw more, and worked at it. I have greater range of motion in my hips, shoulders, and neck. I think I had been so accustomed to feeling so tight and achey that I wasn't tracking how I bad it was before I came in. Upon standing from his table, I could breathe better, deeper into my body, my chest effortlessly lifted, while also feeling nimble in my lower body. I recommend him 10/10 for the great results and for how empowered I feel with what he taught me about my body. He also taught me how to release trigger points on my own on the regular, and gave me drills to do daily to keep up the work he did on my body today. read more

Unlike three other shockwave providers in the Bay Area (an osteopath, two chiropractors), Gary: 1. Started with a mini-massage where he knew exactly where my tender spots were without me telling him. His massages are unlike any massage I've experienced. And I tried everything I could afford! All three other shockwave providers I saw didn't give massage unless I booked a separate session. 2. Spent more time with me (40 minutes!). All other shockwave providers spent at most 30 minutes. Shockwave helped me sometimes in one session when no other modality helped. I also liked that he explained the differences between various shockwave modalities and equipment. 3. Gave me aftercare instructions that were new to me. read more

I've been suffering for weeks (but it felt like months) with pain in my hip that radiated down to my knee. And then I remembered-THE MASSAGE GARAGE! I suffered needlessly. Gary was able to diagnose the root of the pain. And then he figured out why. And then he treated me and relieved my pain. It seemed like magic but it was actually his extensive knowledge and vast experience. I didn't realize how out of balance my body had become-it was very gradual until merely standing brought about discomfort and walking brought about real pain. Immediately after my session my entire body relaxed. I will take Gary's advice and return in a week. I would ask him to marry me but he's already happily married-he's that good read more

5 stars honestly doesn't do justice to the level of care, comfort, knowledge and improvement that Gary's treatments deliver. I've had chronic pain issues for decades that PT has never resolved and massage therapy only temporarily relieves. Gary's methods are different and more effective - he not only identifies the source of discomfort and provides muscular release, but he also shares useful tips to take back to your everyday life to help reverse the impact from injury and habitual movements. He's truly a walking encyclopedia of neuromuscular facts, and I learn something new during each session. Honestly, it's impossible to exaggerate how invaluable Gary's treatments have been to my well-being. If you're looking for a step beyond a typical massage and a therapist with a sixth sense for healing, you've found it. read more

Great experience!! Gary is very thoughtful and professional. My experience was beyond my expectations. Gary did very through assessment before he did any work on my muscles that really needed the attention. I highly recommend this place if you really want to take care of your body aches for long run!! read more

Gary is amazing. His goal is to help and educate people so they can be free of pain and have the best possible quality of life. For 3 years I suffered from debilitating pain to the point I was bed ridden. I saw doctors at UCSF and Stanford. All I was offered was medications that barely worked and had horrendous side effects. Neuromuscular sessions with Gary has helped me immensely. Not only did the sessions help my pain which drastically changed the quality of my life. Sharing his knowledge and tips on how to care for my body has educated me on how to help myself take better care of my body. Gary is knowledgeable, intuitive, thoughtful and caring. He also has a great sense of humor. I highly recommend Gary and the Massage Garage. read more

I have been receiving Gary's massage therapy for a couple of months now. I had been dealing with shoulder and low back problems for a long time, and even physical therapy didn't provide the desired results. However, Gary has been able to effectively identify and address the root cause. His approach goes beyond that of a regular massage, and I'm already experiencing noticeable improvements. Thanks to his therapy, I plan to continue maintenance sessions with him. read more

Gary is the best! You will laugh, you will cry, you will kiss your pains goodbye. I need to go back...

Gary has been enormously helpful in supporting my injury recovery and bringing back my mobility! Thanks Gary!

not all heroes wear capes... I say that because Gary saved me. I came in shambles after throwing out my neck and this wonderful being fixed me right up. I've been a few times since for since for some body tune ups and it is truly a pleasure. I can confidently say Gary knows the body in such an intricate way and anybody (any body) would be more than safe in his hands. read more

Working with Gary at the Massage Garage has been a total game-changer for me! As a lifelong runner, I struggled with chronic hip pain for many years that increased as I ran more. I had accepted the pain was something I'd have to live with, but after a few sessions with Gary it was gone! I couldn't believe I was back to running pain free! I've continued to work with Gary as I've trained for two half-marathons and two full-marathons. I can't imagine I'd be running this much without his help and consider my monthly sessions with him to be a vital part of my overall training plan. Gary's approach is holistic, thoughtful and very specific to the individual. I'd highly recommend him for anyone struggling with a specific problem area or injury. read more

Gary is a lovely person and a truly gifted healer. I went to Gary with some musculoskeletal issues after being in a small car accident. I left his office with greatly reduced pain and a much happier outlook. Gary also educated me about myofascial release and showed me how to treat my own issues. He is truly a lovely person and I recommend this place very highly. read more

The neuro-muscular massage provided to me by Gary Mendelson was excellent. I was in need of it since 20 years ago I was in a horrific collision here in San Francisco. Though my muscles, nerves & bones went through rehabilitation & corrective surgery, they were not fully restored. I have been sore the last 19 years! The neuro-muscular massage given to me by Gary helped align me very well! I will most definitely go back to the Massage Garage in a SF Landmark building at Bush & Octavia for another massage therapy! read more

Not even six months later and my body is a totally different vehicle. Working with Gary has been a game changing experience and has set me up to be in shape to become an athlete rather than just a casual fitness enthusiast. This is remarkable considering the fact that I came to him unable to do much of anything because of two very painful and very problematic injuries. I really appreciate Gary's deep expertise with the neurological system and how manipulating it carefully and knowledgeably can bring about really big change. Gary makes me work for my well-being and I really appreciate partnering with him to get me where I want to be. read more

I took a dip in the ocean and hurt my neck, I was unable to look to the right or left and had excruciating pain. Gary's hands were magical, his massage was hands down the best massage I've ever had. It was a 45 minute massage that involved stretches and pressure points and in the end I felt amazing! My pain was gone and I was in a great mood for the rest of the day. I would recommend Gary's massages to anyone who has pain, stress, or anxiety. Gary is a highly skilled professional who is knowledgeable, experienced, and wonderful to work with. read more

Last Sunday I was in complete agony -- unable to walk, sit or even stand. I had been ignoring signs of muscle strain and after taking a long drive I became completely immobilized. My lower back was inflamed and in spasm and my hips were completely out of alignment. On Monday, I went to see the chiropractor who's office Gary works in, and she suggested that I book a massage for that Wednesday. For three days I was unable to walk or sit, I have never been in so much pain in my life. It felt like my life was ruined and over, I was convinced I'd never walk again. (I know it sounds dramatic, but it felt so overwhelmingly disempowering to be in that physical condition.) I knew that stress and lifestyle were a huge contributor to the pain I was feeling as I am self employed and work on a laptop much of the day. During my massage with Gary, I released so much. Physically and emotionally. I literally felt like a new woman when I got off the table. I was able to walk and sit without pain. I was amazed at how much relief was possible after just one 90 minute session. I went back again this Wednesday and feel incredible (better than before I hurt my back) as I type this review. I cannot say enough kind words about Gary and my experience with him. He is sweet and gentle and created a space for me to be able to receive his healing energy. I went to massage therapy school many years ago and while I have always loved receiving massages but I've also been a difficult client because I have really high expectations from a therapist. Gary superseded every expectation and hope that I had for our session. I cannot thank and recommend him enough! read more

Gary has an amazingly healing touch and a non-traditional approach to massage from what I have experienced in the past. He is very professional, and works in a very nice space inside a chiropractor practice. I've seen him a few times, typically after an injury - Gary's approach is very targeted to the area of discomfort and is "neuromuscular" as opposed to just muscular. He finds trigger points, hones in on them and tracks down the problem up and down the affected muscle(s) and connections. I view his specialty as much more focused on the therapeutic, like going to a chiropractor for pain relief, than a typical "relaxing" massage. read more

I have had sciatica pain for over 10 years and disabling tailbone pain for over a year. I have had many treatments from multiple therapeutic measures such as acupuncture, chiropractics, physical therapy, epidural steroid injections, and massage therapy. I have been seeing Gary for massage therapy, in adjunct to chiropractics and prolotherapy. Gary is unlike the usual massage therapist in that he practices medical massage, focusing on trigger points and stretching the fascia (layer of strong fibrous, connective tissue found throughout the body, surrounding muscles, nerves, blood vessels). Gary is very physically/mentally/emotionally connected to the client during the sessions, making him an extremely intuitive and sensitive healer. If you want a typical "relaxing" massage, this isn't the place. But if you want to be helped with your pain, Gary's the man to see. Incredibly, after a session with Gary, I got up WITHOUT the jolt of constant tailbone pain I have been accustomed to having for the past year. I was even able to walk, jump, and wiggle my butt without pain. This amazing phenomenon only lasted for 24 hours that first time. Since then, I have returned to see Gary, with further pain-free periods. As a physician, I know tailbone pain is common but very hard to treat; however, Gary has the right touch and techniques! read more

I was in a great deal of pain after a performance. Fortunately, Gary was able to see me. He knew exactly how to tackle the wreck that was my body. And I appreciated the educational aspect of his treatment. Big plus! read more

Then: Couldn't reach that juice glass on the second shelf, Couldn't scratch that maddening itch on my shoulder blade. Couldn't reach down far enuf to tie my shoes. Now: The grandkids don't have to drink their orange juice from a highball glass. Scritchy scritchy scritch - at last that itch can be satisfied. My shoes are tied, but my lips are not sealed - Gary knows how to put the impossible within reach. Thank you Gary! What a blessing. read more

Gary at the Massage garage is incredible. He has an intuitive touch, and the neuromuscular therapy he provides has tremendously helped with my rotator cuff tendinosis and AC joint issues, and he is a wonderful human being to boot. He is the real deal. He manipulates the muscle fibers and fascia in such a way as to promote healing of injury, and improve range of motion and he even informs me what he was going to do before he does it. This has enabled me to have a more active part in my recovery process and to also understand how interconnected areas of the body are. Not only does Gary concentrate promoting healing from injury recovery, but also informs on how to best avoid further pain and injury, by teaching about the concerned area and passing on vital preventative measures. He informed me on how best to warm up the areas before activity, which in my case involves lifting a heavy camera lens, and what to do during, and after the activity to help mitigate any pain and inflammation flares. I see Gary every 2 weeks for tune ups, and he has provided something my doctors haven't been able to: relief and hope. My pain is not as severe I am forever grateful for his magic healing hands. read more

I had my first baby two months ago and I needed someone to help my body bounce back from the pain caused by pregnancy and holding/feeding my baby. I saw Gary regularly for three weeks now and I couldn't be more satisfied and relieved. His work has been undoing months of stress and it's making me feel light, pain-free and comfortable. What really impressed me is his ability to know what my body needs instinctively, how to tackle it effectively using a number of techniques and with the utmost sensitivity and respect. read more

I have heard that certain types of massage can cause an emotional release, but I've never experienced it before today. Gary is a natural healer. When I showed up I could barely walk or stand up straight, but Gary did something amazing! Walking out of there, I felt relaxed and refreshed. I highly recommend Gary!! My back pain is noticeably better already...it's like magic! read more

Gary is awesome. I have been living with pain a couple times a year when i "throw my back out" for years. Crippling, drop to your knees pain. I just accepted that I had a "bad back" and that i would be out of commission a couple times a year for 5-7 days. I hobbled in to see Gary after several visits to regular massage and acupuncture had nonce nothing to improve my pain, His approach was markedly different from anyone else i have ever seen. He asked questions, observed my body movements and set about healing. In two visits I was back on my feet and off pain meds. That was a year ago, in December I injured myself again, and in one visit he got me back on the path to pain free health. I am so thankful to have found Gary, and recommend him to all my friends. read more

Gary is a Massage Therapist who practices muscle retraining techniques to help get bodies back humming. I went to Gary after a hip replacement to help rebalance my body. After many years favoring my left side because of a bad hip, my right side had really tried to take over. After just a few sessions, I felt real improvement in my body strength and level of pain after just a few visits. He also gave me some techniques I could use at home to speed up my healing. Gary is interested in healing, not creating a list of clients to inflate his business. He's very kind and knowledgeable. read more

I've been going to the Massage Garage for a few months, and everytime, I'm so impressed with Gary's, (Massage Therapist), different types of therapuetic techniques. Thanks so much for professionalism and making my day ever so relaxing. Happy Saturday!! read more

Fabulous! Gary is the Neuromuscular Therapist there and he is terrific! I am a 75 year old retired (sort of) cuisine and pastry chef who needs a regular walk regime to help keep the weight down. I started having leg pain such that I struggled to walk across the room. I was referred to Gary, who arranged to meet me on a Sunday afternoon, when he should have been doing something fun and not working. After a 90 minute session, I walked to my car, a block and a half away, still in some pain, but certainly better than when I arrived. In the next two days I found real relief and it just kept getting better. I will meet with Gary in the near future to get at the root of the problem, as his goal is not to get me up and running, but to help avoid health problems in the future. I owe Gary my debt in gratitude. He is truly a remarkable professional! Dean Atkinson 1/24/2016 read more

I went to Gary at The Massage Garage for body work. Massages are oh so lovely (and Gary's are quite nice) but I need more than a quick fix/feel good experience. I want my aches & pains to feel better and stay better. Gary's techniques & intuitive touch are helping my body remember what it's supposed to do and feel like. Nothing like a good tune-up! Thank you Gary. read more

If you need some amazing body work that helps with injury recovery, by a very skilled neuromuscular therapist, please see Gary at the Massage Garage. He has been working magic on both of my arms weekly, for the last 6+ weeks. It's the first time (in the 6 years of chronic injury) I have had any improvement whatsoever that wasn't because of avoiding doing things. Maybe some day soon I will be able to actually finish chores I start at home! read more

I wrote a review several months ago about how much Gary Mendelson NMT/CMT helped me completely get rid of neck and mid-back pain i had suffered with for years. I recently injured my lower back and have spent the past 3 weeks in a lot of pain, but regular visits to see Gary have reduced the pain so much that I am nearly able to resume all my daily activities. Gary knows his business! He can find those trigger points that cause the pain and discomfort and work them until they disappear. I told him today that he should add two more letters after his name: M.W. for Miracle Worker!! This has been the best, most rewarding treatment for pain in my neck and back than I've received from anyone. If you are in pain or discomfort, give Gary a call and I would be willing to bet he can find a way to help you out. Go now! Don't live another day in pain. read more

Gary was able to take a frozen shoulder and post operative knew and get it back to working order. I've done massages for years and not had this kind of success. Highly recommend him! read more

I have felt hopeless and helpless and lost in the web of medicine in the year 2015. After having multiple joint replacements and a low back injury I had reached a place where pain medication is no longer working and is no longer and option. So, I needed to find and try alternative ways to manage my pain. I needed to find a way to live my best life. I found Gary . I am so very happy I did. I have had three treatments so far for my extreme and debilitating sciatic pain. After the first treatment I found relief. The neuro- muscular massage Gary did on me actually gave me relief after the first treatment... after three treatments , I have had multiple days of pain free living. Gary's bedside manner , knowledge and expertise exceed all my expectations. He educates and motivates and has given me hope in a situation that has been hopeless. Oh, did I mention pain free days???? I plan to continue with the process for as long as he will see me... When I leave my session I feel relief, physical, mental and spiritual. Gary is , to me, a true healer and has worked a miracle on me... Go see him.... its worth it .... read more

Gary is a trained, educated, professional HEALER!! We all need you! ! I've never had therapeutic massage and I've had many massages. 20 years of excruciating pain. Physical therapy, legal and not so legal drugs could not help. I'm 50+ with sciatica, degenerative, bulging disc and curvature issues. I had an ankle replacement after 20 years walking crooked. After a week long sciatic episode, it shifted and I thought my organs would explode. I couldn't lay, sit or breathe it hurt soo BAD ..Gary found every problem and ones I forgot about, educated me along the way, made me feel safe & comfortable and I went to sleep for the first time in 4 days! Thank you Gary!! Going back for more! read more

Amazing massage, so so relaxing :) would definitely recommend coming here for any aches and pains. Thank you so much!!!

Gary is the best. After 30 plus years of working in health care on my feet with heavy lead aprons my lower back and hips get extremely tight and painful. Gary makes me feel 10 years younger in one session. I'm getting a series of three this time and can't wait to go back. read more