Why I Started Metropolitan Massage

Like many people, my journey into massage therapy began not as a career goal—but as a personal solution to a persistent problem.

In my early 20s, I was passionate about weight training and active in multiple sports. That passion came to a halt when I developed a Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) in my shoulder. The pain was intense, and my range of motion deteriorated to the point where I could barely lift my arm above my head. A doctor told me that if I continued training, surgery might be my only option—but with only a 50% success rate, it wasn’t a risk I was willing to take.

For six years, I avoided exercises that could aggravate my shoulder and tried various rehabilitation methods. Still, I only regained about half my shoulder’s normal function. Then, a friend encouraged me to see a specialist. I went reluctantly—more to appease him than anything else—but that visit changed everything. Rather than a torn ligament, the doctor diagnosed a mineral buildup and recommended a series of therapeutic injections. After just one treatment, my range of motion jumped from 50% to 75%. I was amazed—and hopeful.

But that optimism faded when I received an unexpected bill for the full cost of the treatment. Insurance had denied the claim, leaving me to cover it out of pocket. A second injection, necessary to complete the healing process, would be just as expensive. It was a frustrating setback.

Still, I was determined to get better. This time, I turned to massage therapy. I had tried massage before, but hadn’t seen results—until I came across a therapist with the right skill set. Her work targeted the precise area of my injury, and over a series of sessions, my shoulder improved dramatically. Combined with corrective exercises and stretching, I ultimately achieved full recovery. That experience changed the way I viewed massage: not as a luxury, but as a critical part of healing.

Years later, I reinjured the same shoulder during a mud run in North Carolina. Once again, I tried light rehab exercises, with minimal results. Only after returning to massage therapy—and finding another highly skilled Licensed Massage Therapist—did I experience meaningful progress. That reinforced a lesson I’ve never forgotten: not all massage therapists are the same. Technique and specialization matter.

That insight was the foundation of Metropolitan Massage. I started this company with a simple mission: to help others prevent and recover from Repetitive Strain Injuries—whether caused by lifting weights, typing at a desk, or working on an assembly line. We believe massage should be accessible, effective, and tailored to the real physical demands of our clients’ lives.

To build on that mission, I conducted extensive research—diving into peer-reviewed medical journals and studies on the effectiveness of massage therapy. The evidence is clear: when done correctly and consistently, massage can significantly reduce pain, restore range of motion, and support long-term wellness. While some studies remain inconclusive due to poor methodology or limited scope, the broader picture strongly supports what skilled therapists already know from experience: massage works.

Today, even many insurance providers recognize the therapeutic value of massage and include it in their coverage options. While approval varies by policy, it’s worth checking whether your benefits allow for doctor-prescribed massage therapy.

At Metropolitan Massage, we don’t believe massage is a cure-all—but we know, firsthand, how powerful it can be. Whether you’re recovering from an injury or simply trying to stay ahead of the daily aches and strains that come from hard work, our team is here to support your wellness journey with care, skill, and professionalism.

We hope to be part of your story too.