Cardiff Back Pain Massage
for Painful Lumbago
We offer tailor made sports massage treatments for low back pain, sciatic pain and lumbago. Our specialized sports massage treatments are suitable for people of all ages and physical conditions. We aim to address your personal discomfort and help give you symptomatic relief. Every person is different - we do not intend to 'label' your discomfort - just provide simple everyday self-help tips and practical ways to gain relief.
Aromatherapy essential oils may be blended to ease the effects of the inflammation associated with your particular type of back pain. Sciatic nerve pain may also be addressed with various trigger point therapy treatments and myofascial soft tissue manipulations may best suit the release of the trapped sciatic nerve.
Constant ('dull') back pain may also be treated with hot stones therapy. This may help improve your lack of mobility, reduced range of motion, shooting pains and 'pins and needles' numbness.
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CNHC Registered and fully recognised by most insurance companies. The CNHC is a government sponsored registration body for complementary healthcare practitioners.
What can you expect?
Some complementary therapy benefits may include easing your pain, relieving fatigue, helping you to relax, lift your mood and give you a feeling of well being. Our therapeutic massage treatments are tailor made for your health needs and stress levels - it's up to you to decide: revitalize, repair, uplift & re-energize yourself, or de-stress and relax?
As our spectrum of professional knowledge, range of massage treatments and 26-years of expertise is so wide, you may gain benefits in many fields. This may further support you on your healing journey, alongside conventional medicine.
The Department of Health advises all GPs to direct patients seeking Massage Therapy to seek out only CNHC (the Complementary & Natural Healthcare Council) registered therapists.
Sports massage, Remedial massage, Swedish massage, Shiatsu massage, Hot Stones massage, Reflexology and Aromatherapy massage are all accepted by Health Shield
Sports massage, aromatherapy massage and Acupressure are accepted by Westfield Health
Please see their TCs.
Guidelines published by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) in 2016 recommends that patients with persistent, non-specific lower back pain (with or without Sciatica) have access to a choice of different manual therapies, including massage, as part of a treatment package including exercise, with or without psychological therapy (s1.2.7). The NICE guidelines state that "The effect of a full body massage in patients with chronic lower back pain lasted at least a year after the end of treatment". It went on in s1.4.1 to advise GPs to "consider offering a course of manual therapy, including massage, comprising up to a maximum of nine sessions over a period of up to 12 weeks". The research went on to include chronic neck pain, chronic back pain and cervicogenic headache.
Shorter versions of the back pain sports massage may be performed without oil, over your (light cotton) clothing. This will mainly involve Shiatsu and sports massage trigger pointing. When performed in this way, this back pain sports massage routine may be quite deep and invigorating, when needed.
For longer sessions of the back pain sports massage treatment, special hot stones therapy massage uses a highly specialised blend of Aromatherapy essential oils that will be tailor made to suit your personal needs (mainly anti-inflammatory oils).
For long term use, aromatherapy products with specially selected aromatherapy essential oils, may best suit back pain sports massage clients.
Back pain sports massage is recommended at any time of the year, as needed - for sciatica, lumbago, lumber and low back pain.
Back pain sports massage client testimonials:
"World Class - Olympic standard.. I've visited City Marshall several times. Having ran in two Olympic Games and having a silver medal in one I'd say I've got some very credible knowledge and experience in world class massage therapy. I've had some of the best therapists in the world treat me in the past and I must say that Philip at City Marshall is one of the best therapists I've ever had. You get what you pay for and that's Olympic standard.... The best! I look forward to visiting again soon!"
Jamie Baulch, Welsh Olympic silver medalist 9 July 2015 - TripAdvisor
I walked in, stressed with musclular pain and an aching back. My mind was racing and I was unable to shut down. The next day I felt like a new woman - my aches and pains had disappeared and I felt renewed. Have already recommended Phil to another family member.
Climber Kadie Davies 10 October 2021 Google
We recommend "Phil the muscles". Phil is a massage magician. He has sorted out tendonitis, back pain and tennis elbow in our family. You come out feeling like new.
Carole W, Cardiff 13 October 2020 on Trip Advisor
I went to City Marshall with a lower back problem, having tried 3 years of Pain killers, physio, Osteo, chiropractors and an MRI, all to no avail. Drawing on his vast years of experience and different therapies he specialises in, Philip examined me and put together a personalised treatment plan, including lifestyle and diet to address and resolve my issues.
I can’t recommend City Marshall highly enough.
Also very professional and flexible, especially during the current COVID restrictions.
John Bullon, Cardiff 1 October 2020 on Google
My husband went for back and neck pain because of his work and he really gave us some really good advice and the treatment was explained thoroughly. His diagnosis and treatment were spot on .. highly recommend.
Dogsday17 Newport, Wales 15 May 2017- on Trip Advisor
"Lower back pain and lumbago pain - now gone! As I live in Swansea, I can only visit Cardiff every 2 or 3 months. When I do, i always make sure to book Marshall Massage well in advance. Thai massage, deep tissue sports massage and even reflexology treatments - all are amazing for my back pain relief. In the last two years I have been learning so much from every sessions and always go back home feeling fantastic. The once chronic lower back pain that I learned to live with since my early 30s - is now totally gone. He taught me about posture at work, sleep posture and even about anti inflammatory ways of eating. If you have back pain, be sure to visit them. Make sure to book your treatment with plenty of notice. Well worth every penny. "
"Fantastic!! I have been visiting Phillip for the last year - I have chronic psoriatic arthritis and I suffer from excruciating back pain. On my first visit, I spoke with Phillip, explained my issues and what I wished to achieve from my visit. Phillip explained in detail what he thought would be the best course of action and we took it from there. I have found Phillip to be extremely professional in his work, I have benefited a great deal from his expertise and I enjoy visiting him. He has a great deal of knowledge and is happy to explain anything I'm unsure of, or anything I wish to know more about. I would recommend his service to anybody - from those looking for help with body issues to those wanting a relaxing massage. Thanks Phillip!!"
Rachel B, Cardiff 3 August 2015- on TripAdvisor
"I just wanted to let you know that my back and neck are so much better. From crying with the pain before seeing you, to enjoying going to the cinema last night, its just fantastic! I bought the pillow you said about from Argos and it feels good for my neck and back. Thanks to you I am getting to have a normal life and we will never be able to thank you enough"
Julie Timothy, 4 July 2015- via text
"Sciatic pain discomfort - myofascial release. I have enjoyed my visit to Marshall massage therapy clinic in Cardiff. He appears to have 20 years of great experience in sports injures, and pin-pointed my needs and addressed them within 15 minutes of seeing me. We focussed on myofascial release of my trapped sciatic nerve. It is now two months later - and there is still totally no pain! We had two times a full hour session, and both times, I was given an extra 15 minutes or so of free time when we further discussed diet, nutrition, ways of strecthing and general well-being. Marshall is an exceptional talent and you should seek him out on your visit to Cardiff."
Lyndhurst S London, 15 June 2015- on FreeIndex
"I've had a back problem for 15 years that Philip got rid of after my first session with him.
Been a further 2 times and my back is so much better! "
Mozzer86 Cardiff, 15 January 2015- on TripAdvisor
"Trigger point therapy. Phillip has really helped me with the upper back tension I have been dealing with since an L4-L5 microdiscectomy in May 2013.
I had suffered with severe sciatica for over 2 years and this has resulted with a whole mess of problems in my upper back since. I am a 26 year old male and I have had 5 x 1 hour sessions with him, mainly concentrating on trigger point therapy. It has been brilliant and I am feeling that I am in less pain and more comfort. Very welcoming and friendly relaxing atmosphere.
He is an extremely knowledgeable practitioner and has helped on advising me with diet and posture also and is more than happy to answer any questions I have no matter how small (even by the odd text to ask about certain food/vitamins etc). I am still not completely how I want to feel in regards to pain, however there is definite improvement and I will be going back to him in the future. The price is justified for the quality of the therapy and for me has been worth it. Phillip is a genuine therapist who really listens and cares and he by far outstands from any therapy I have had in the past. "
Mark R, Cardiff 7 January 2015- on TripAdvisor
"I have had 3 sessions so far with Phillip, who is treating me for back problems which are very painful. After the first session, the constant pain in my arm had lessened significantly; after 3 sessions, I am now able to sit comfortably and in different positions. I have also been able to discuss nutrition and posture with Phillip. The first couple of massages were a little painful as my muscles were in such poor condition, but the massages themselves are becoming more relaxing now as the muscles are mending. I'm very impressed, and I think that the treatment is working well. I intend to keep up with regular maintenance massage once the immediate problem is resolved."
Rhian Atkin, Cardiff 28 December 2014 - on FreeIndex
"Plagued by neck and back pain, which persisted despite trying a range of different therapies and exercises, I was very pleased by the effect of just a couple of treatments at City Marshall. The care and attention, and ability to destress painful muscles, are outstanding - in fact I am amazed at what they can do. My singing voice has been transformed by tension reduction in my back."
John Martin Evans, Cardiff 20 December 2014 - on FreeIndex
"I would highly recommend Philip based on my excellent experience. I'm particularly impressed by how much information he gathers in order to really tailor the treatment to the individual. Most massage places I've been have felt quite generic and rushed where here is someone who offers a wealth of knowledge and obviously likes seeing positive results in his clients. Every massage/session has been very relaxing, informative and I've come away with obvious benefits. Excellent treatments."
Oliver Mc, Cardiff 30 October 2014 - on FreeIndex
"For the last couple of years I've been dealing with lots of tension and pain on my back. Tired of seeing many different GP's and taking painkillers, I called Philip […] My pain has improved a lot and I also feel lighter and able to carry on with my day without issues."
Jennifer Ruiz Cardiff 23 March 2014- on FreeIndex
"Went with an ongoing back issue. Had the best massage therapy I've ever experienced and problem solved. Will definitely go again and recommend to anyone. Maybe a little more expensive than some retail masseurs but you get what you pay for. And for a comparative service and result it's very reasonable."
Karl Roberts, Maesteg 17 March 2014- on FreeIndex
"For ten years I was not able to reach my ankles, bend my knees without pain or clip my toe nails. I thought I never would. The NHS said its age! After 3 sport massage sessions I am pain-free, very loose and I can clip my toe nails with ease. I feel amazing and I know that in 2 or 3 more sessions I will feel even better. Thank you so much."
Aled Jenkins, Pontypridd 23 January 2014 - on Yell.com
"I cannot recommend Philip enough. I have suffered for 7 years with horrendous shoulder, back and neck pain, causing restricted movement and also lack of circulation into my fingers (always went white when cold) - after 2 sessions I have had no more white finger (and it has been freezing) and considerably reduced pain. I know I will need a few sessions due to being this way for so long, but Phillip is AMAZING and I now feel there is a light at last at the end of my tunnel. I cannot recommend City Marshall enough, I was near breaking point, he really does have healing hands....I can't thank you enough.....thank you for making me smile again :-)
Julia Allen Cardiff 21 November 2013 - TripAdvisor
"I went to Phillip originally with a back injury which had plagued me for years. Phillip was able to sort this out for me in just a couple sessions (acupressure and reflexology) which were extremely relaxing and helped me cope with the stress and anxiety. Phillip is very knowledgeable and I would recommend him to anyone"
Alice S Cardiff 17 October 2013- on TripAdvisor
"Whether you are suffering from pain, want to keep everything in check or simply want to fully relax, I can highly recommend City Marshall. I first attended when suffering from pains in my leg when running. Philip cured me via sports massage but also used acupressure when needed. "
David Lewis Cardiff 24 March 2013
"sports massage with trigger point therapy for lower back pain - Had the specialised back pain massage at city marshall in central Cardiff. The combination of sports trigger point therapy and Philip's deep insight into acupressure was very effective. The muscle tension, even after the first massage, was much reduced. After the third massage treatment we added more elements of yoga stretches and worked on my ROM mobility. Extremely professional and also deeply reassuring. Philip certainly cares and adds aromatherapy blends as well as some elements of reflexology to the over all effect. My back pain is now much reduced and I am much calmer at work. Highly recommend this blend of therapy to anyone with lower back pain or lumbago".
James Baker Cardiff 29 January 2013
My experience with City Marshall was phenomenal. When I first started out I had upper and mid-section back pain. After only a few sessions I started seeing positive changes. In addition to the Shiatsu massage I went for, there was a good mix of Thai and yoga stretches during each session which made a world of difference. Overall I had a great experience here and will continue with them!
Shiv Mand Cardiff University 17 January 2013
"I suffer from constant daily back and hip pain due to osteoarthritis.
And I didnt realise just after the treatment that I was no longer in pain.... This wonderful reprieve lasted approximately 3 weeks. I am so impressed that I have recommended him to family/ friends / work colleagues, and have asked family to not buy presents for Christmas for me, but to able me to attend this exceptional method of pain relief without popping pills."
Teresa Lloyd-Cox Cardiff 9 November 2012
Philip is an outstanding therapist who employs a range of methods along with massage to heal and treat aches and pains. I went to him with a pain in my upper back that I had had constantly for two months. Using hot stones, massage and reflexology he has managed to remove my pain in two to three treatments. I recommend him to you very highly.
Gabrielle Cardiff 25 July 2012
"After years of worsening back tension, a few visits to City Marshall have worked wonders. The stress in my neck, back and shoulders was extreme. Spa therapists had said I was one of the worst cases they had seen! Not only is Philip releasing the tension in my back and shoulder muscles, he also applies an holistic approach to treatment, drawing on his expertise across multiple disciplines. Philip has advised on back support at work; alleviated fluid retention; blended a warming massage oil and suggested targeted exercises to help. His treatments are therapeutic indeed. Philip is calm and considerate and ensures a comfortable environment. I would have no hesitation recommending him to others, I can not praise him highly enough."
Helen Stenton Caerphilly 18 April 2012
"I'm a professional dancer on tour here in Cardiff. I had been suffering with a trapped nerve for 2 months and had treatment by 2 physio's in London. Didn't help me at all. However after one hour treatment with Philip it's completely gone... Really wonderful!"
Jonny Bowles London 31 August 2011
Some techniques that may be used in back pain sports massage are:
- Soft tissue release & gentle kneading
- Deep tissue manipulation, cross fibre and friction - when needed
- Myofascial tissue release, both soft and deep tissue trigger pointing
- Lymphatic drainage massage and Hand ‘Walking’ technique
Back pain sports massage benefits may include:
- Mental and physical relaxation
- A true sense of restored well-being & balance
- A positive boost of energy and release of stress / tension
- Maximising the supply of nutrients by increased circulation
Who can benefit from back pain sports massage?
- Any body of any age regardless of physical condition or fitness
- Stress, tension, anxiety, headaches and restless poor sleep
- Muscular spasms including stomach or lower body cramps
- Muscular aches and pains: sciatica, shoulder, neck, knee & back pain etc.
- Recovery from injury and from a training session
- Repetitive Strain Injury & Carpal Tunnel
- Tennis / Golfer’s elbow & Tendinitis
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Occupational & postural aches
- Hot & cold Stones Therapy – a wonderfully relaxing touch with significant recovery speed
- Essential oils – an Aromatherapy blend to suit your needs – anti inflammatory and anti spasmodic
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Aromatherapy products – tailor made soaps, shampoos, creams, gels, facial sprays, after shaves and deodorants – carry the feeling home with you in a jar!
- Reiki chakra Balancing – 15 to 30 minutes achieving an even deeper sense of harmony
Prices are for reference only, as the back pain sports massage will be tailor made:
- VIP back pain sports massage with hot stones (90 minutes) £ 150
- Premium back pain sports massage (60 minutes) £ 100
- Shorter back pain sports massage (45 minutes) £ 85
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each additional UPGRADE* £ 15
KINDLY NOTE – BEST PREPARATION FOR A BACK PAIN MASSAGE:
- CLOTHING: you may remain wearing your own underwear or receive a disposable one
- MEALS: avoid eating a heavy meal within 2 hours of the planned back pain massage treatment
- DIET: you are respectfully advised to avoid consumption of alcohol, caffeine and nicotine on the day of your back pain massage treatment, to allow better toxic by-product elimination
- AFTER CARE: as a back pain massage is generally balancing and harmonising, you may return to work or drive home as usual
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Kindly note, for those receiving the VIP Hot Stones back pain treatments, you are strongly advised to use our kitchen downstairs, and help yourself to a soothing herbal tea, to allow further time to relax prior to returning to work or driving home