I booked thru a deal and I was not impressed by the lack of table side professionalism and constant chatter. There were many awkward pauses and I felt objectified laying naked on the table, so much to the point where I felt like parts of my body were being touched inappropriately. The table was also not very temperate and there wasn't a proper changing room near her studio which is actually more of a closet. I will never return to this lady and would not recommend her. I'd rather go to pretty much anyone else. My body felt in a lot of pain after this massage and to the point where I had to revisit my pt as it threw me off. It felt as though harm was caused to me, and on top of it it's not cheap. read more

My husband recommended Michelle (we are both professional musicians). She is not just a lovely and kind person, but incredibly knowledgeable about anatomy and knows exactly what she is doing! Additionally, she is highly intuitive and empathic and always goes the extra mile to help! Michelle views each patient as a whole and does not simply treat single ailments. She always asks before adjusting temperature or switching on/off/changing music, she is wonderful to talk to but will also anticipate if a patient prefers quiet. I am deeply grateful for her care and support and can wholeheartedly recommend her! read more

After living 30+ years under the impression that "massage" = smelly oils, Peruvian flute music and gentle hands coaxing you into dreamland, I may have just been born again. Michelle actually WORKS on your body. You're probably not going to pass out and start drooling (like you normally do), since she uses great strength and precise pressure to get to the root of what ails you. But the after-effects feel fantastic and are well-worth the periodic intensities that signal bad stuff leaving your body. read more

Do you want to feel 4" taller? Would you like to see the circulation return to your face? Would you like that knot in your should that has become a well-known companion to disappear? Well, you may not have the crazy, messed up back that I have after years of running a landscaping business, but I'm sure your problems can be obliterated by the capable and strong hands of miss Michelle Maloy. I wish I had started seeing her a long time ago. And trust me, you'll feel the same way. Yes, it's painful. Yes, I am still sore the next day. And yes it is completely worth it. --Come prepared to take it easy for awhile after the massage. Don't plan a big night out. Expect to spend some down time recovering the next day. -- My first visit produced a complete relief of pain in my left hip, due to overuse and repetitive motion. My second visit helped to release much of the tension in my upper back, neck and shoulders (too many reasons to list for this problem). Michelle is sassy, skilled and intuitive. She will put you at ease right away. She is very responsive for bookings and makes great recommendations for complimentary practitioners. She approaches her work from a holistic perspective and gives great tips for self care after the massage: "homework". I don't need an hour of relaxation, I need to feel relaxed as I move through my sometimes stressful life. Michelle is a fabulous ally in the process of making that happen. read more

Yes. Yes yes yes. I just finished my first session with Michelle and it blew me away. I feel more aligned, light, and balanced than I have in a long time. Michelle is very friendly, approachable, skilled, and knowledgable. I instantly felt comfortable in her office and in her hands. The session was very engaging, with Michelle keeping me posted on what was going on, what she was doing, pointing out things to look for/feel, and dropping info about my T1 and first rib alignment (which I didn't even know were connected, shhhh) and my "pectoral fascia" like it was no big deal. The session really helped me see how different parts of my body are connected and affect each other in ways I've never thought about: like she worked on my pecs and armpits to address shoulder pain and the backs of my knees to loosen up my lower back. She also helped me notice ways I habitually misalign my body (like by always looking down at my phone/tablet/computer instead of holding it up in front of my actual face) and to pay more attention to how I stand/sit/carry myself, in general. The craziest thing is that she fixed a 3-year-old ankle injury that had lingered on despite seeing two doctors, a physical therapist, and having a few rounds of X-rays. I never even dreamed that injury would be addressed in this session, and I walked out pain-free and with full range of motion for the first time in years. Remarkable!! Needless to say, I'd recommend some QT with Michelle to anyone with pain, misalignment, or just general malaise... and I will certainly be back! read more

I have been visiting Michelle every 1-2 months for about 5 years. There are different styles of massage and each person needs to figure out which style they need. Michelle gives strong, deep, knowledgable massages. These are just the kind I love! It's hard to describe but, I could tell as soon as she touched my shoulders the first time: Michelle has knowledge about how your muscles work. Additionally, she loves giving massages, and she pours herself into giving them. She works extremely hard. You can practically feel the energy pouring out of her and into you. That is why I am always very happy to pay her fee: as far as I'm concerned it's cheap! 5 years ago, she really helped me. My back was seriously tight and it was causing me a lot of distress: I had pains in my chest and I didn't know what was wrong with me. It turned out, I had bad posture, my workstation had poor ergonomics, and my muscles were super tight. Michelle made it graphically clear to me how tight my muscles were, by giving me the best massages I've ever had! I wasn't dying, I just needed to understand my body better. I look forward to Michelle's massages very much. She is a gifted massage therapist and honestly, anyone would be lucky to receive a massage from her. read more

There are a million types of massage. This is the kind of massage that hurts like a mother#*%#% and then afterwards you realize that your body was bent out of shape and now it isn't. She focuses on "trigger point" massage. I couldn't really describe it other than it's kind of like acupuncture without the needles. I always have tight hip-flexor joints and quads. Lately, snowboarding, I have tightness in my left shoulder and neck as I'm always looking that way as I ride. I went yesterday and all that tightness is gone. She basically makes your muscles release their tension. Doing that is generally speaking a painful exercise - you'll know it when she finds the places that are tight. But then afterwards its like your legs, back, whatever are relaxed and far more flexible. read more

I have been seeing Michelle for quite some time. But, I haven't been seeing her as frequently as I'd like. Each time is definitely not for the squeamish. She really knows how to unkink your muscles, but you have to be willing to endure the pain..but it's soooo good afterwards. She knows all about how your muscles interact and knows how to alleviate your pain points. She'll also educate you on self-maintenance when you can't make it to an appointment. Do yourself a favor and book an appointment in advance and you'll probably ditch your current MT. read more

Michelle is without a doubt the best massage therapist I've ever been to, and I've been a competitive athlete all my life. I had a nasty injury about a year ago, and some imbalances lag and bother me so I go to Michelle and to sort out the kinks. What I like most is that she'll go right to the problem - not just massaging a sore muscle but going directly to the source. My hip flexers were tight, she's all over my iliac crest (attaches parallel with my belly button) and next thing I know my hips have released and I have full range of motion again. Michelle is extremely passionate about what she does, and will do whatever it takes to fix her clients. Which..as it turns out, can be very painful..so be warned! She's also pretty blunt and will say whatever is on her mind without sugar coating it, so don't expect to be coddled mentally or physically. If you want a relaxing aromatherapy massage, this isn't it. That said, you wouldn't feel 1/100th as good after an aromatherapy massage as you do with Michelle. I've referred a number of friends to her - a former college athlete with a shoulder injury, a weekend warrior type, and a much older woman with back problems. They've all come back with glowing reviews and have thanked me for the referral. Massage therapy is not cheap, but her prices are solid and definitely worth it. read more

Due to Michelle's magic hands and elbows, my mind is too relaxed to do all of the thinking, so my muscles are dictating this review. My visits to Michelle have been motivated by stressful times, hip-flexor pain, and general tightness. Not only does Michelle guide me through our massage - coaching my breathing and helping me to loosen up - but she also advises me on ways to maintain a healthy balance of stretches, breathing techniques, and exercises in my everyday life. Her healing practice extends beyond the massage table. Thank You, Michelle. read more

I have had the priviledge of being worked on by some excellent massage therapists in San Francisco and I am happy to add Michelle to this list. She has a clear sense of what the body needs and a great understanding of body mechanics. Michelle not only works through your body's "issues" she addresses the root causes and has constructive advice for bringing the body back into balance. I can't say enough great things about Michelle's massage! She has a true talent ... a gift. read more

Been going to her for years. She kills with the armpit moves, but a day or two later you realize the brilliance of her technique. Want cushy feels-good-now-but-tomorrow-back-to-normal massage? Look elsewhere. Want something healing and worthwhile? Michelle's for you. read more

Honestly, I dont know where to begin with Michelle. Her technique of using trigger points and specific nodules on your body are unlike any other massage therapist I have been to before. The amazing part during our sessions is how many times I could say "that's a little to much pressure", but to my amazement the nodule she is focusing on is so tight the amount of pressure she is applying is less than opening a can of soda! As our session continues, I can feel the difference in every additional movement ( I can come into her office unable to turn my head, only to come out with full range of motion, less stress, and an amazing nights sleep). Located in the heart of the mission, her office is beautifully decorated and a short walk from BART. Her building is also home to many other small locally owned business's worth taking a look at after your session. One of the reasons why I love going to Michelle over other massage therapists is because of her detailed knowledge of the human anatomy, her never ending sympathy and passion for her profession, and most importantly: Results that are immediately evident. If you are someone like me who suffers from chronic back pain (both mechanical and stress caused) and are looking for a solution I cannot recommend anyone more competent then Michelle Maloy. read more

Michelle is as good as it gets. I saw several massage therapists before finding Michelle, and I feel so lucky to be one of her clients. She's a skillful, intuitive, and effective practitioner. At the start of each massage, she checks in with me verbally, then physically, and can tell with gentle pressure just what areas need to be worked on. No two massages are ever the same -- each one is tailored to what my body needs that day -- and I'm consistently blown away by how clearly Michelle can read the body. Beyond that, she's a wealth of knowledge in terms of anatomy, and I fully trust her to give my body the most effective and deep massage possible without hurting me. I've also learned a lot from her about how to take care of my body between massages. From her reading of my body, she's recommended specific stretches and foam rolling techniques that help prolong the time between massages and make me feel better overall. read more

5-star masseuse but a complete flake on appointment scheduling - I always have to schedule 3 times just to see her once. But she has been treating me for years, and really knows everything there is to know about musculature, so if you have the patience to schedule, get canceled by her at the last second, reschedule, get canceled again, and reschedule again to get in to see her, I do recommend. If you have a particular problem/pain she will trace to the source and resolve it. It just takes a tremendous effort to get to see her, particularly on Fridays and Saturdays, when she appears to reschedule the most. read more

Michelle is an excellent CMT. As a long-time sufferer of RSI and related back and neck pain, Michelle's precise and strong work really brings me some relief. Not for those who want a light massage! If you really want a deep massage (and you know who you are) Michelle is the CMT fo ryou! read more

MIchelle has the touch and she uses it with strength and precision. Her pristine office provides a peaceful sanctuary. If you're looking for a deep therapeutic massage, you found it. read more

Michelle is by far the best masseuse I've come across in the Bay Area, and I've had a lot of massages the last few years, being a "weekend warrior" who likes to compete in marathons, bike, etc. My legs tighten up pretty badly and I usually need some serious deep tissue work every week or so... something more than a finger painting/fall asleep from relaxation massage. That's where Michelle comes in. I'll be honest, she'll make you cry during a session with her deep tissue, but her technique and knowledge of the muscles (being a kinesiology major myself) is impressive. She's light years ahead of of some other highly rated massueses on yelp (which will remain nameless). Not only is she a good masseuse, but she tries her best to help me out with ways to keep my muscles loose... which is two-fold, it makes my muscles less tired, and makes her job easier the next time I come in. Trust me, if you need a good deep tissue, someone to work the kinks out of your achy tired muscles, Michelle's your gal. read more

Knots whimper at the sight of her. Kinks burrow behind bone in a futile attempt at escape. I swear her fingers are more muscular than my thighs. If you have chronic pain or your shoulders resemble the vast granite slabs of an Ansel Adams photograph, she will work you into Squeeze Parkay. You may not like it much while you're on the table, but you will remember her in your nightly prayers for the ability to walk again. read more

Michele is the real deal. If you want a therapeutic, rehabilitating massage, go see her. She has a keen awareness of the human body. Her knowledge of anatomy is outstanding. She is physically and emotionally in tune with your body. And she doesn't hold back. This isn't a sissy massage. She will work you and heal you. Michele truly cares about your well being. Trust her to do right by you. read more

Michelle can tear down your broken body and put it back together better than you can ever imagine. Not a massage for wimps, but if you really want your body to recover and strengthen, she is the One. She is extremely intuitive and has the ability to find the sometimes small causes of larger problems. She has even shown me preventative exercises and stretching techniques to maintain healthy muscles. As a person, Michelle is an honest, smart, and funny person who tells it like it is. My back, shoulders, armpits, neck, gluts, legs, cheeks, feet and forehead thank her! read more

Ever since my old contortion days, I've always had chronic lower back pain, subsequently exacerbated by sitting for bird on end in front of a computer everyday. Last night, Michelle Maloy blew my mind (and body) with trigger point massage therapy (which I didn't even know existed) and I woke up this morning for the first time since I can remember with my back feeling better! For all of you past and current athletes, I highly recommend going to see her. She's a god damned miracle worker. 7 thumbs up! read more

Michelle brought me back from the dead! Her precision, unbelievable care, strength, knowledge of the body, attention to detail, multi faceted technique and million dollar hands put her at the top of my rehabilitation team. I had a terrible motorcycle accident in January and have had a team of specialists helping me get back to life as I knew it. Michelle has been the driving force in regaining the use of my right hand, arm, back and neck. I recommend her to anyone looking to heal and/or maintain a healthy body. She is the one. read more

Michelle has studied kinesiology (how the body moves) and understands the mechanics of why you hurt better than any massage therapist -- and 99 percent of doctors and physical therapists, for that matter -- that I've met ... and I've encountered scads during years of experience with chronic pain. Even better, she's a whiz at releasing the pain through trigger point massage, which I've come to believe is the best type going -- at least when it's administered by Michelle. To complete the experience, Michelle is warm, charming, and full of helpful suggestions for stretches and home remedies to ease your aching parts. read more

Michelle knew just what to do to help me and my pain become one again. She's thorough and experienced and has just the right touch and will adjust to whatever pressure you like. She has a compassion that few others have. You can't go wrong here!!! read more

This is not a place for a relaxing massages. I have had severe knots in my neck/shoulders (bad sitting position) for a while. Would sometimes have shoulder cramps when i wake up in the morning as well. Within a couple of minutes, Michelle was able to relieve my shoulder and back tension. It was painful during the massage since my muscles were so tight but that particular night, I slept like a babe. I would definitely visit Michelle again. read more

I found her on google because she was close by. I had lower back pain from a rough week at work. She gave the most painful massage I ever had but it worked! My pain was gone. The Thai one I'd had a few days before didn't fix my problem. Shes easy to talk to and honest. And worked really hard on me even though I was the last client of the day. I used to think massages were just useless pampering until she worked on me. I will definitely return. read more

If your body is out of whack and needs fixing Michelle should be your go to CMT. Her massage is intended to address the issues and it will hurt! I haven't asked (or wanted) a relaxing swedish massage, so I'm not sure what she'd say or do if asked, but you might want to consider one of those "day spas" meant for pampering if that's what you are looking for. Michelle has helped me with my hip flexors, gluts and pretty much every tight muscle in my lower body due to running. My recent visit focused on my neck and back. She finds all the right places and works them until you want to cry uncle! She is super responsive and flexible with scheduling too! read more

Michelle is a fantastic massage therapist. I exercise 4-5 days per week, so after a few months, my body is pretty tight. Every 4-5 months I'll book two 90 min sessions with her. One for my hips/lower body, and the other for my shoulders. I walk out of her office feeling like a new person. Not only do I feel more relaxed, but I'm about 10-15% stronger. She knows what she's doing. read more

If I ever want to treat someone to something very special, decadent, and impressive, I buy them a massage with Michelle. She is seriously committed to her craft and you'll feel it. This is not Swedish massage. This is for working out the serious kinks. Bid tension adieu as she pulls those tendons back where they belong! Next, you'll remember what a relaxed head feels like - ahhhhhh - and you'll unclench your jaw for the first time in 3 months. She will go where you need it, have no fear. A lovely person and a great healer. read more

Incredible healing, completely repairing, and therapeutically invigorating. I have never found a massage therapist who could get out my knots out like Michelle. I come to her a broken man from running, biking, skiing, tennis and she puts me back together. It may be painful during - of course I ask to get as far into the muscles as possible - and the relief is dramatic and lasting. Back and shoulder pain, no problem. Hamstring pulls, piece of cake. Perhaps my favorite part is that I'll have one part of my body in pain and she'll notice that the real problem is somewhere completely different, she'll work on it and voila, disappearing pain. She knows her science and her art like no other. read more

Michelle really knows how to get into those stubborn, constricted, messed up muscles and loosen them up. She took the time to talk to answer my questions about her technique and even showed me how I can self massage to relieve muscle stress. I can't wait to go back! read more

michelle is the most talented and intuitive massage therapist i have ever had the pleasure of received work from. i found her through a personal referral and have sent many people to her, all of whom have had amazing experiences. i cannot recommend anyone more highly! read more

HORRIBLE! I will NEVER go to her again! I read the reviews on Yelp before selecting her and thought she would be good. She left me in alot of pain that continued for days. One pain continued for over a week and I finally went to my chiropractor and one of my ribs had separated from the vertabrae. He fixed it, but when I called Michelle, just to let her know and be aware of what happened, she very rudely threw it back at me, that it was my fault and that I should know, study and read up on bodywork before I talk about what I "think" I know. I've had many massages before and have never had anything like this. I've always had the therapist gently ask how the pressure is and if it's too much, they ease up. When I complained to her that she was hurting me quite a bit, she said "It's supposed to hurt." She wouldn't let me request a Swedish massage. Instead she told me "You come to the office and I'll tell you what you need." She also talked throughout the entire massage. It was anything but relaxing. I can't wait to find someone who KNOWS what they're doing! read more

Michelle was recommended to me by my sister when I was having serious lower back pain after 6 months of having a baby. Michelle worked wonders!! I have since visited her in times of "back crisis" and from the moment I walk in, I know I am in good hands- literally. She is incredibly knowledgeable, experienced and works on your body where it needs it. She is not a standard masseuse who does the usual "back-neck- arms-hands-legs-feet-now turn" routine-- she focuses on what is triggering your pain and really gets in and works it out. What I thought was just a lower back muscle ache really began down in my quads and criss-crossed across my back to my opposite shoulder... who knew? She did. Her touch is very strong and very intense, but she is sweet and funny and makes you feel comfortable by talking you through it, I will forever be a fan and client of Michelle's. I trust her completely and she is the best in my book. read more

If you're looking for a superficial massage, Michelle is not the person you want to see. She has a natural talent for finding all those really deep-knotted areas and fixing them. Her ability to tune in with your body's problems is amazing. For active people that push their bodies to the limits and need a massage therapist that really knows what they are doing, she is your gal. I can't recommend her professionalism and massage skills highly enough!! read more

Michelle is a magician with her hands. She was able to really use her I tuition to get to the sports Injuries that have been bothering me for years! Michelle is such a talented healer. Highly recommend! read more

Michelle Maloy is the BOMB! She has the magic touch to get rid of all your knots and tension. I am a massage junkie, and Michelle is the best massage therapist to ever work on me. This is not some fru-fru massage, you will feel the results. Her trigger point technique is right on, and her fingers find my little sore spots and release my stress. I can't believe how strong she is. Her rates are very competitive, and she does not consider your time started until you are on her table with her hands on you. Not to mention what a great personality she has! If you don't go to Michelle, you are missing out! read more

I had an excellent massage therapist in San Diego and have VERY high expectations for anybody that I am paying to work on my body. Michelle exceeded all of my expectations. She is incredible, one of the most knowledgeable, no-nonsense people that I have come across in my extensive search for a good CMT. read more

This woman is GOOD. My husband and I are massage freaks and my husband is a big guy, in order for a massage to be effective strong hands are required and Michelle has them. I have also found that she intutively and skillfully finds the trouble spots and works them good, even when you didn't know they existed, which is often the case. Her office is calm and relaxing and well decorated, she thinks of everything! read more