I had a lot of pain on my left neck and shoulder for years and haven't really relieved from other massages. I tried going to what a relief and met Shane. He was professional and listened to my pain concerns. His technique is different from any other massage therapy. He will not work on the whole body just like the typical massage because he will focus on your pain area but oh boy whatever he does works very well. He knows the muscle groups involve that might be causing your pain. He knows the pain points. If yall experiencing pain yall need to try him. Thank you Shane!! A tip from a returning client: The office parking is in back of the office building and yall might get confused but just call to ask. read more

Just really overall thrilled with the positive things that have come out of visits with Alex. I work in a job that is constantly making me use small muscles and I had been in a lot of pain for a while - even making me question continuing my career - and thanks to Alex, his techniques, and his knowledge I am finally feeling some hope. With each session I get better and better. He knows a lot about his craft and is very experienced in the field. I also love getting an anatomy lesson each time which explains WHY I'm having the pain and not just the simple fact I'm having it. I'm feeling really positive about everything - and he and his wife are very schedule accommodating. Looking forward to my next session! :-) read more

I was having issues with my should for almost a year. My range of motion was severely limited to the point where I could not even tie an apron behind my back. I am not certain where the pain came from, it was a mix of sleeping in different beds while traveling, putting too much weight on the shoulder from kids and luggage and too ignoring the early warning signs, so I never slowed down. Plus I was not home for two months, so I could not see my regular doctor / chiropractor when I wanted to. Upon returning, I saw my primary care physician, who prescribed me physical therapy (PT). Prior to my first PT visit, I saw my chiropractor, who adjusted me and helped me already to relieve some pain and increase my range of motion, but still, carrying more than a light backpack hurt a lot. What irked me more was that I had trouble sleeping, I always had to tuck a pillow under my arm, so I could fall asleep. I always had to plan when I wanted to lift something or reach for an object, because my should would just not move that way anymore. Finally the pain became so bad, that I diligently worked on the strengthening exercises my PT showed me, but that did not seem to make a difference. It did not worsen the pain at best. Two weeks ago I gave in and started to see Alex. I read all the good reviews and thought "I have been in pain long enough, why not give it a shot". I should have done that MONTHS ago! Alex was able to relieve so much pain within the first hour, I was practically pain free after one visit! He diagnosed and treated tension in my pectoral muscle (front) that led the shoulder muscle to tense up and limit what my arms and back could do. I have seen Alex four times by now and every visit he treated the trigger points in my back, shoulder, arm and chest and I regained more motion. I can literally see the results when I try to reach a point right before and after the massage. I am incredibly happy that I am not in pain anymore and would suggest ANYONE to at least try it once. You don't have to lose anything except the pain. read more

I've had a lot of massages in the past but I definitely have to say when I saw Tristan on a visit to San Diego it was probably the highlight of my trip. For work I'm on my feet for up to 9 to 10 hours a day and at the end of the day my entire back and traps/shoulders are in a huge tight knot and feel like they are on fire. Just absolute soreness and stiffness I cannot find a comfortable position for sleep. I made an appointment with Tristan for a 60 minute session but requested for a 90 minute session. I was very happy he was able to accommodate me and let me tell you it was worth it. Well worth it. I left feeling like a brand new person with absolutely no pain or stiffness in my back shoulders and traps. My workouts for the next week was the proof Tristan's work was well worth it. I also slept like a baby that night. If you're looking for absolute quality and awesome massage, please do not hesitate in booking appointment with either Tristan or his dad. You'll definitely thank yourself afterwards. read more

I was experiencing a pinched nerve in my neck and back. Also, terrible pain in any position, loosing sleep, and arm going numb for three weeks. I reached out to Mr. Alex and he was so kind to listen and have compassion for my misery. He offered me an appointment by cutting his lunch short. Extremely kind, compassionate, and empathetic. I accepted the offer. The visit with me was amazing. He said it would be intense and it was in a good way. I could barely move my neck and arm when I arrived and in one hour I was already at 50%. One week later all pain and numbing arm was gone. I still have pain but it's 50% better. I have a follow up appointment and I am looking forward to it. Highly recommend Mr. Alex. Thank you for improving my quality of life!! read more

Came here because people I know got relief. I thought I'd see what Alex would say about an issue I had. I had gone the medical route and all they want to do is give me drugs. Did have a cortizone shot in my SI joint that only gave me 2 months of relief. Wanted to see if we could fix the root of the problem. Alex is knowlegeable and explains what is going on with your body. This is not a relaxing massage but a massage to deal with chronic tension and stress. Sometimes it hurts as he has to make the muscles more flexible. Try massaging concrete..LOL. He also knows of the different layers of tissues. Had no idea. Amazing how our bodies adapt which causes other issues. After a few sessions, I had relief from the constant pain with my SI joint only to get a different body part hurting, my ankle. Go figure! Alex identified the problem and has been working on me. Unfortunately, it is a slower process in getting relief as I use my feet everyday, due to work, walking an average of 3-5miles a day. This affects my tendons. I have every expectation Alex will help me get better. Yes, I have to pay out of pocket but his prices are reasonable. I see it as an investment in my health and quality of life. read more

What a tremendous blessing Alex (What-a-Relief) has been. I came in barely able to walk. My leg was in too much pain to keep going with even the simplest daily activities. Couldn't even sleep well due to having to move to avoid pain. Within a few weeks I was 50% better and eventually, I'd say, an 80% improvement... I can walk, sleep soundly, climb up stairs, hike, bike ride--everything I did before my leg starting going bad. And he taught so much about STAYING physically mobile. I am forever grateful. read more

This review is for Alex Nunez, he's the man, what a relief massage therapy is way better than any spa or massage or anything I've been to, he CURES you, without the surgery part lol. Thank you Alex for your professional hard work you've provided for me and our whole church throughout the years. Jesus Sanchez :) read more

I highly recommend this studio for anyone looking for a healing massage. I've been a regular customer for the past 7 years and I love coming here because the guys really focus on releasing chronic muscle tension. They practice a pressure plus motion approach which takes the deep tissue massage to another level - because they not only aim to improve circulation to the muscles deepest levels, they incorporate movement so the massage gets even deeper. I'm a pretty active person - do yoga, run and weight train regularly, and at the same time - I have a very sedentary job. Both Tristan and Alex have worked with me to improve my range of motion, flexibility and strength so that after a 10-hour work day on my computer I can get up and move into an advanced workout session. Alex, the founder of the location, has been a massage therapist for many years with a wealth of knowledge and skill. While his son, Tristan, is newer albeit highly motivated and strong enough to make up for the years of practice. Together they make a great time. Overall, they are competitively priced, always on time, professional and have a clean environment. They are well-educated about the anatomy and can pretty much address any symptoms related to muscles. Bonus, they have a ton of clients with all sorts of issues and they are comfortable working with patients of all ages and ailments. read more

I have had back pain and migraines for as long as I can remember. It was a daily battle everyday to get up and when I did I was in constant pain. After finding massage therapists online and seeing the type of relief they could bring, I wanted to see if I could find someone to help me. What a relief has been a lifesaver! I never knew that a lot of my pain could be worked on without medicine or surgery. Alex has been able to teach me how to take back control of my life. Not only does he do massage therapy but he teaches you techniques to empower yourself. Once I brought home his techniques, I have been able to control my once debilitating migraines before they start. Not to mention, I don't think I have ever been so relaxed in my life. For once, I'm not in excruciating pain and my body is able to start healing itself again. I cannot thank Alex and Marlys enough for their help and kindness! read more

This is not your typical spa massage to help you feel relaxed. This is more like physical therapy with long term benefits. Alex has a great understanding of the body and what causes pain. My 12 year old son used to get headaches quite often. Alex did some massage for him and taught him how to do some self massage in the same area. It's been 3 years now and his headaches haven't returned. I've had many pains up and down my body and Alex has been able to alleviate them. I highly recommend What a Relief Massage if you have any pain in your body. read more

I was just sitting here thinking about what type of services I get regularly and why? I get massages regularly because I carry all my stress in my neck, shoulders and back and ultimately they help my muscles to relax and feel better. I was referred to Alex at What A Relief Massage a few years ago by my old personal trainer at the gym. I had pulled a muscle in my left shoulder blade and needed INSTANT relief. I ended up going to see Alex at his location in Rancho Bernardo and was amazed at how much better I felt the next day after seeing him. I usually get deep tissue massages from day spas. Alex uses a different kind of technique...not so much a relaxing massage but a healing massage! For the past year and a half I have been seeing Alex once a month for an hour to help relieve the tension in my neck and shoulders. I'm sitting here now in quite a bit of pain and think it's time to go see Alex! :) Honestly, if you suffer from headaches, muscle aches, sports injuries or anything similar and are looking for treatment...call Alex! :) Thank you so much for always making me feel better and able to tackle my daily duties in life in less pain!! read more

Wow, 5 stars!! Tristan was incredible!! He worked out multiple knots on my back and found some I didn't even know about. He was very knowledgeable about how to stretch out the muscles I needed t work on and even after the massage was done, he sat with my and showed me stretches I could do at home and even gave me a tennis ball to stretch on. 10/10, will be going there again soon read more

So I've been getting massages since I was 10 years old, I am now 27, and What a Relief! Massage Therapy will probably be the only place I ever go for a massage now on. I was diagnosed with scoliosis when I was 9 years old and have since then had spinal fusion surgery from my T1 to my L3 (majority of my spine). I suffer from nerve damage due to disc degeneration and massive muscle spams in my thoracic and lumbar spine. Also due to my spinal rotation, I also suffer from hip pain. I have worked in the service industry for 12 years and suffer from chronic wrist, ankle and foot pain as well. Needless to say, whenever I have any amount of money to spend on my health, i spend it on massage. Until now, massage therapy has given me immediate yet short lived relief of all my pains. Ironically, I have been experiencing the exact opposite effect with What a Relief. When Alex and Tristan say this is Massage Therapy, they mean it. It's THERAPY people. First off, you don't get undressed ready to be lathered up. You keep your clothing on because the massage style here actually targets your problem areas and works on FIXING them. At times it becomes a little intense if you're like me and you ask for 'deep pressure', but Alex and Tristan will help guide you through breathing and help you relax into the pressure. This usually leaves me with, of course, instant relief from the initial pressure from my knots, but it also ends up leaving me a bit sore. The best part though, the pain is GONE for days and sometimes weeks!!! For someone who suffers from chronic severe pain, I can not express to you "what a relief" this truly is! I recommend Alex and Tristan for massage therapy if you are looking for someone to actually fix your problems and keep you read more

I've used Tristan several times for pain and injuries that others told me I would have to live with. Tristan has helped me made my elbow tendinitis go completely away and took away my low back pain with the work he has done. I couldn't recommend What A Relief enough to my friends and family in pain. As a matter of fact, I have sent three people here with problems they thought they would just have to deal with after doctors couldn't help them. All three of them got help and relief from their chronic pain. read more

I saw Tristan because I had pain in my back and neck that I first noticed after waking up one day, but which persisted until I couldn't move my neck very well. Toughing it out had only made it worse, so I decided to check out What a Relief! based off of Yelp reviews. It sounded like the perfect place to actually help my pain instead of just making me temporarily feel good. Tristan worked on my neck, shoulders, and back and was very professional while still being friendly and easy to chat with. The massage room was nicely lit and relaxing. All I wanted was to be able to move my neck again and Tristan achieved that for me and more. Immediately following the massage, I felt sore, but the next day I felt much better. He recommended some stretches to help which has been immensely useful, since this isn't the first time I've had neck pain like this (in fact - I just remembered to write this review because I used to stretches to help loosen my neck today and it worked!) Without a doubt I would recommend this place for anyone seeking relief and better understanding of their pain. read more

Tristan is truly amazing! My husband & I have been getting massages for years- seeking out therapeutic, healing massage for our issues. A friend of mine (and fellow migraine sufferer) contacted me to tell me how much Tristan & his dad Alex have helped improve her migraines. Well, we decided to give it a try & wow she wasn't kidding! This massage is honestly the most professional, healing, unbelievable experience we have ever had. There is no one better! We highly recommend him & his practice to all of my friends. read more

My husband and I went down to El Cajon this past Saturday and my husband was able to get a last minute massage therapy session. Being that my husband is very active, he felt 100% times better afterwards. I have been to What a Relief Massage before and it's not a relaxing massage (although you can request for it to be) but their specialty is a way to relieve tension that we carry on an everyday basis. They really dig down deep to the cause of pain. Did you know that even if you relax your jaw....the muscles there are still very tensed? Alex was able to give tips for "at home" exercises or ways of massage when needed until your next appointment. He is amazing. Office is always clean and private. I have been to relaxing massages at spas but nothing compares to going to What a Relief Massage! read more

I've been seeing Alex for many years. He was highly recommended by my primary care physician when I was having lower back problems which he quickly identified as being related to my SI. I've seen him for several other injuries and he always comes through. Very knowledgeable about the anatomy and very patient with you. No regrets whatsoever. read more

This massage therapy has helped tremendously. I am looking forward to continuing my sessions along with rehabilitating my back. I had the pleasure to meet Tristan, who is extremely knowledgeable about the human body. He has given me great things to work on when I'm not in office. With only the first session, I felt a huge difference in the pain levels of my lower back. I will definitely continue to go and refer anyone who has a stubborn pain that they want gone. My overall experience was amazing and I know yours will be too. Have a good visit at What a Relief! read more

Over the period of about 4 months Alex was able to clear up a very long standing problem with my left leg, ankle ,and foot. He has a skill that is unbeatable in finding the area that holds tension and releasing the tension and getting it back to normalcy. What he practices is definitely medical grade massage and I will be returning with any future problems. I cannot recommend Alex highly enough. I am very grateful to my neighbor for telling me about his studio. B read more

Alex magically makes it all better! Trust me, you won't be disappointed! So knowledgeable, so professional and so effective. His ART techniques are good for everyone young and old, active or not active. Plus he's a great guy, he really truly cares!! Make that appointment now!! read more

Alex and Tristan are awesome massage therapists. I've been to see both of them and they are equally qualified. My last four massages have been with Tristan. He is very intuitive and insightful, but he also listens well and asks for your feedback. I feel it is important to work together with your therapist and I found it easy to work with Tristan. The work both Tristin and Alex do is like no other massage I have experienced. It is truly a healing massage. Tristan was able to work thru some deep tension I have carried in my thighs for years. I think it is also very important to be able to trust your therapist especially since I am a woman, and both these therapists have been nothing less than professional. Check them out. You will not be disappointed. read more

What a Relief! Massage Therapy Center - Plenty of free parking. - Massage Therapy Near Me - La Mesa, California

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These guys are the secret to my health and vitality. I am turning 70 in a few months, and these guys keep me going. They solve my pain problems and have even solved some medical issues that the doctors had given up on.........I highly recommend them! read more

I depend on Alex at What A Relief Massage Therapy to keep me healthy. Carrying my stress in my upper back and shoulders for years, I have finally found some quality relief from the tension and pain. Alex's method is unique. I have never experienced such complete treatment. This is the place to go if you are in pain and want lasting help! read more

I was referred to Tristan by my nephew . He had some issues that Tristan was able to help. I met with Tristan a few times. Thinking back I had issues with my shoulder since a 2006 car accident. I was treated by chiropractors, massage therapists and physical therapists over the period of ten years. Working with Tristan and my trainer (Nick Komidina, K Fitness ) over a period of 6 months, the pain is completely gone. i will be going back to see him because I do heavy physical work. Need the kinks worked out. read more

This place is just what the name says: What A Relief! If you've tried everything, and you still have pain, you HAVE to try this place!! They seriously know how to work out the kinks. Their specialty is Medical-grade Massage and it works. Not just "fluff", this is seriously great massage! You have to go! read more

This place is on a completely different level than your typical massage parlor. Alex and Tristan listen carefully to your needs and effectively target your sore and tense muscles with amazing precision and technique. You will feel like a million bucks when you leave. Whether you have specific areas of your body that need work or you just want a good ol' massage it is worth every cent! read more

I have been suffering from headaches and migraines for years. I was becoming immune to aspirin and Imitrex (an RX) as I was taking them too often. I also have some lower back symptoms and cramping. Through another class Member at my Club, I was referred to Alex Nunez. He is a Muscle Therapist, unlike anything I ever experienced. This is for the individual wanting to improve their chronic pains and improve muscle use and over-all well being. I have had 4 sessions to date and I cannot tell you how pleased I am with my results, Alex is an expert in this filed as well as a wonderful gentleman. He explains the process and how he intends to work with you in very clear terms. I look forward to completing my initial plan and will then be going to continue on a maintenance plan. I truly am impressed with this approach, as I do not wish to treat myself with pills! I strongly recommend this therapy, I have had other Chiropractic Services, Physical Therapy, and Massage Relaxation. This is better than all of the other methods! I swear......... read more

I am a cyclist and was in training to ride in a century ride and then a double century until too much pain in my hip stopped me. I have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis and may eventually need a new hip; however, the massage I received from Alex has stopped the pain and I am almost back to normal. I could hardly walk without pain and was taking pain pills 24 hours a day; however, Alex has worked on my hip and leg and the improvement is unbelievable. He advised me that he could help my muscles become healthy and pain free; however, I did not really believe him until it actually happened. I am a happy camper now. read more

Highly recommend if you are suffering from pain or stiffness. Alex and Tristen are know what they are doing and I grateful for the relief I've gotten from tight neck and back muscles. Do try them! read more

I went to What A Relief! for the first time this morning, and was blown away at Tristan's ability to locate muscle tension that I wasn't even aware of and what could be the source of knee pain that I have been experiencing during exercise. It will take some time to see for sure how much of my knee pain has been directly related to this tension (I will write a follow up down the road), but it felt like a very productive first step and I am eager to go back. Overall it was an incredibly enlightening experience, and I look forward to incorporating regular maintenance visits into my workout/training routine. I would highly recommend this studio for a healing/recovery massage, and I would strongly encourage someone who is experiencing pain during exercise to give these guys a try. read more

Went to see how they dealt with shoulder injuries as well as necks. Both Tristan and Alex were incredibly welcoming, informative, and processional. They sought the true cause of the issue and developed a game plan on how to correct it. Highly recommend what a relief! read more

Alex and Tristin are great therapists. I have seen them both and they defiantly know exactly how to treat any symptom I've complained about. I usually go to the El Cajon office because it's closer to me. I did drive out to this location before because I was in so much pain and knew I wouldn't get relief from anyone else. If you suffer from any type of muscle pain, I highly recommend you giving them a try. I believe you won't regret it. read more

I have been seeing Alex for massage for several years. He is not only a fantastic Massage Therapist, but an outstanding person. His techniques for reducing pain are amazing. And when you aren't in pain, he can give a terrific relaxation massage. As a Massage Therapist myself, I wouldn't go to anyone else! read more

Tristan, is a friendly young man, has really good and strong hands, knows what he is doing, and where to touch. He helped me getting off the stress by deep tissue massage. Also, giving information how to stretch and strengthen your body. About the location, it is nice and quiet, easy to find with enough parking lots, rooms are private with relaxing music, warm friendly conversation. I Strongly recommend going there. read more

Tristan is a life saver! I suffer from chronic back problems that pain meds can't help, and he's able to find the muscles affected and actually provide relief that lasts. I have had trouble finding someone strong enough and knowledgeable enough to get to the source of the problem, but I no longer have to look because Tristan has both the strength and the knowledge to help me. read more

I love Tristan! He knows exactly what he's doing and even explains why other muscles or tendons are affected and how everything connects, which I appreciate. Talk about someone wise beyond his years! I was referred to Tristan and What A Relief by a friend of mine that knows her shit. No, really. I've never known another person who has more issues than she does or has seen more doctors or specialists than her. She referred me to Tristan because she couldn't massage a knot out of my shoulder (she goes to massage school). Tristan has been working it out, along with other pains I have. On my first visit, he helped my hip flexor, which has been bothering me for years and I even saw a chiropractor about earlier this year. The chiropractor was awesome in getting it adjusted, however it still kind of hurt. Tristan is also helping with keeping it in place. It's not a massage like at a spa, it's more like therapy and on the spot treatment. Literally treating the spot that's bothering you. Try them, because trust me you'll go back. read more

I came here the other day and was greeted with with upmost respect. Tristan was very professional and very friendly. I highly recommend Tristan to other clients. He was able to understand my problems that I expressed and was able to help me. I highly recommend Tristan to anyone having problems or just needs a nice massage. Very professional. read more

My daughter recently had intense pain in her IT band and adductor muscles from extensive ballet training. She was unable to put weight on her leg and walking was miserable for her. She tried putting ice on it and resting her leg to help it heal with no results. I took her to see Tristan and within 1 day she was walking pain free. After 4 sessions, she was completely healed and has been pain free ever since. He also taught her how to stretch her muscles after dance class and gave her helpful tips to keep her muscles healthy. Taking her to What A Relief was the best thing we did for her. read more