ART is a patented, state of the art soft tissue system/movement based massage technique that treats problems with muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia and nerves. Headaches, back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, shin splints, shoulder pain, sciatica, plantar fasciitis, knee problems, and tennis elbow are just a few of the many conditions that can be resolved quickly and permanently with ART.
These conditions all have one important thing in common: they are often a result of overused muscles. Firm but gentle pressure using long smooth strokes, kneading, and circular movements on superficial layers of soft tissue is applied to improve circulation, ease muscle aches and tension, improve flexibility and bring a sense of overall well-being to the client.
These conditions all have one important thing in common: they are often a result of overused muscles. Firm but gentle pressure using long smooth strokes, kneading, and circular movements on superficial layers of soft tissue is applied to improve circulation, ease muscle aches and tension, improve flexibility and bring a sense of overall well-being to the client.
Reviews (19)
Susan J.
Aug 19, 2020
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I got a massage with Melissa a long time ago and meant to review right away. She is so capable and understanding and has such a strong yet calm energy. I felt so at ease communicating and did not feel that my requests were high maintenance which usually happens in pain and sensitive. Thank you Melissa for making me feel better.
Dave D.
Jan 30, 2020
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Chad C.
Jan 06, 2020
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Melissa is a phenomenal massage therapist! I've had some serious injuries and serious surgeries, but she took the time to ensure she only helped my physical condition instead of making it worse. She has a great ability to read her clients needs and will happily adjust her pressure as asked. I cannot recommend her enough. If you're hoping for pain relief or relaxation (or some combination), this is THE lady to go to!
Pat M.
Jan 02, 2020
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John D.
Dec 18, 2019
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Melissa is absolutely fabulous! I was referred to Melissa last month by a friend who raved about her. I just finished my second session with Melissa. She is truly gifted as a massage therapist.
A long career of hard work left me with some low back and other issues. I enjoy staying active, but couldn't find relief from other medical sources. After my second session with Melissa my body is feeling amazing. She massaged away my aches, pains and stress. Fantastic!!
She asks the right questions to focus on your concerns and to get the results that help. I highly recommend her. She
A long career of hard work left me with some low back and other issues. I enjoy staying active, but couldn't find relief from other medical sources. After my second session with Melissa my body is feeling amazing. She massaged away my aches, pains and stress. Fantastic!!
She asks the right questions to focus on your concerns and to get the results that help. I highly recommend her. She
Nihar G.
Aug 28, 2019
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I had a truly amazing experience with Melissa. She has a profound understanding of body mechanics and is skilled in various massage techniques. It only took her a few minutes to identify my problem areas and I was provided a custom massage that felt personalized. She is also very kind, caring and wonderful to talk to. I highly recommend paying her a visit. She will heal a bit of your soul along with your aching body.
Kelly G.
Jul 23, 2019
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Chantel W.
Apr 17, 2019
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Melissa is very skilled in her massage techniques. I was comfortable & relaxed even though she was working on my areas of concern. I loved that she does not do a "text book" massage. It showed me that she is experienced, talented, & educated in her field of work. I highly recommend Melissa for pain management, as well as just looking for a great therapist. You won't be disappointed!
Linda C.
Feb 17, 2019
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Melissa is a very professional Massage Therapist. I am a person who is particular about massage therapy and was hapoy to find her so knowledgable.
I was so relieved that Melissa was able to get me out of the pain I waa in when I showed up to my appointment.
I highly recommend Melissa Ricker for her incredible knowledge and abilities.
I was so relieved that Melissa was able to get me out of the pain I waa in when I showed up to my appointment.
I highly recommend Melissa Ricker for her incredible knowledge and abilities.
Michael C.
Feb 02, 2019
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Melissa is fantastic!! Completely professional, and amazingly skillful!!! I never cease to be amazed at her ability to immediately isolate my problem areas, gently relieve the tension, and put me in a state of complete and utter relaxation. I literally MELT IN HER HANDS! Thank you, Melisaa! I am truly grateful!!
Jon L.
Aug 16, 2018
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I was struggling with a lower back/hip issue from an injury during a spin cycling class for 2.5 years. I had tried acupuncture, cupping and several chiropractic visits. Not until Melissa worked her magic did I feel meaningful relief.
I truly thought I would live with my pain and discomfort for the balance of my days. She understood what happened and outlined exactly where my issues were and then work her magic. Bless this woman and her elbows!!!
I truly thought I would live with my pain and discomfort for the balance of my days. She understood what happened and outlined exactly where my issues were and then work her magic. Bless this woman and her elbows!!!
Mike M.
Jul 29, 2018
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Melissa is the best. I had been looking for a sports massage therapist for a while, could not find one i liked until i went to see Melissa. She knows the body as well as you can. she took care of my shoulders and back in a way no one else has before, I left there with a high. I keep going back, it is absolutely worth it. she is very cool and fun to talk to. check out Melissa for your massage you will be happy you did.
Christina D.
May 20, 2018
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This review is long overdue. After living in the area for over 5 years and trying over 10 different local massage therapists ranging from small, individual practitioners to expensive high end resort masseuses, I found Melissa. Her therapy FAR exceeds that of any massage I've ever had and her treatments have made a significant improvement to various forms of acute back, neck, and shoulder pain I've experienced. This is not your typical inexperienced spa rubdown - she is a professional with an exceptional level of training in sports medicine and her trigger point therapy targets the source
LaTonaya B.
May 17, 2018
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WOW!!! Melissa Ricker,NMT is an AWESOME massage therapist with healing hands. Great energy, great attitude. She is very knowledgable about the body mechanics & body work. She tailors the massage to fit the needs for whatever prevention & rehabilitations your body needs. She takes the aches & pains away & provides total relaxation. She's in a great location, plenty of parking, offers gift certificates, takes major credit cards & reasonably priced. Place is very clean, relaxing & great energy. I highly recommend making appt with her. ENJOY!!!
Johnny M.
Mar 03, 2018
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Absolutely amazing.
I was seeing Melissa Ricker for massage therapy every month for nearly a year. My body and core was breaking down due to poor working posture and health habits, but after just a few sessions, Ms. Ricker was able to bring me back from the brink of broken!
Kind, compassionate, strong and detailed - Melissa Ricker will put you back in touch with your body and good health.
I was seeing Melissa Ricker for massage therapy every month for nearly a year. My body and core was breaking down due to poor working posture and health habits, but after just a few sessions, Ms. Ricker was able to bring me back from the brink of broken!
Kind, compassionate, strong and detailed - Melissa Ricker will put you back in touch with your body and good health.
Eugene N.
Nov 22, 2017
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I have done a lot of triathlon training and Melissa has helped me get through a lot of aches and pains for many years. She has a vast knowledge of body mechanics and Active Release Therapy which has allowed me to keep going me going. She is super friendly, funny and makes sure that you are comfortable with the amount of pressure she applies. She is great at both sports massages as well as relaxation massages.
Ness B.
Oct 20, 2017
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Melissa helped with a neck injury due to a misunderstanding with a mechanical bull. My neck was stiff and getting worse. She worked her magic and now I can move my neck! YAY!!! She also taped me up which I have not done before and it really helped stabilize my neck.
I put a call into her and left a message. She called me back soon after and was able to see me immediately. I have been to almost every masseuse in Dana Point and she knows how to really release those tight muscles.
Thank you Melissa!!!!
I put a call into her and left a message. She called me back soon after and was able to see me immediately. I have been to almost every masseuse in Dana Point and she knows how to really release those tight muscles.
Thank you Melissa!!!!
Kelly C.
Aug 13, 2017
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Melissa made me feel very comfortable with her right away with her knowledge of body mechanics and disarming sense of humor! It felt like connecting with an old friend. She gave me a truly customized massage and let her intuition guide the process. I was in deep shoulder and neck discomfort and she gave me tips to use after the session to assist in staying more in balance. I left the session feeling soothed and released to better be present with others. I highly recommend Melissa for therapeutic massage!
Mahdi S.
Aug 01, 2017
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Melissa is the best massage therapist in the area. I've tried many masseurs in the past couple years, here in the States and outside of the country. But believe me, nothing could get near to existence, in compare with her service and technic.
Not only her personality is positive and energetic, which is important to have a good therapy experience, but also her skills are tremendous; her hands are strong to the muscles and gentle to your skin. She knows all the single parts of your body and applies the right pressure on each of them to release tension from your body.
My sister is a long timer
Not only her personality is positive and energetic, which is important to have a good therapy experience, but also her skills are tremendous; her hands are strong to the muscles and gentle to your skin. She knows all the single parts of your body and applies the right pressure on each of them to release tension from your body.
My sister is a long timer
