About

Established in 2010. Since our opening, we've been proudly serving the physically active community of Philadelphia, from beginners to veterans, from amateur to professional athletes.

 

Services

Frequently Asked Questions

Phila Massages accepts credit cards.
Phila Massages has 4.8 stars.
Phila Massages is open Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun.
Sports massage therapy is a specialized form of massage designed to enhance athletic performance, prevent injuries, and expedite recovery for athletes and active individuals.
We offer a range of sports massage sessions, including:Touch-Up: Focused 30-minute session for specific areas, available to returning clients with an active membership,Maintenance: A popular 60-minute session provided at your location for complete maintenance and performance enhancement, Recovery: A 90-minute session for active recovery from injury, events, or competitions,Injury Support: Specific 60-minute sessions targeting issues like IT Band syndrome, shin splints, and plantar fasciitis.
Prices vary based on the session type. Prices start at $79 for a Sports Massage and range depending on the session's focus and duration.
Yes, we offer therapy from home for returning guests or after your first visit to our office. Prices for therapy from home sessions start at $249 for Maintenance and $299 for Recovery. The complete price depends on the distance our therapists need to travel.
Sports massage is designed for athletes and active individuals to improve performance, prevent injuries, and expedite recovery. It targets muscles used during training, competition, and physical activities.
The frequency depends on your training volume. High training might require once or twice a week, while maintenance or less athletic individuals may benefit from a session every 4-6 weeks.
Training before a massage can be helpful, especially with light to medium pressure massages. Training right after depends on the type of massage you received.
Receiving a massage after an event can promote recovery. However, allow your body to cool down and prioritize replenishing before seeking a massage.
Light to medium pressure massages can be helpful before a competition, but deep tissue massages should be avoided.
Soreness is common after a sports massage due to intense techniques. It varies based on factors like tolerance, duration, and muscle condition. Communication with your therapist is key.
Wearing athletic attire like shorts and a sports bra is recommended. If forgotten or not preferred, our therapists provide draping for your comfort.
 

Reviews & Patient Experiences

Overall Rating

Based on 10 Experiences

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Reviews for Phila Massages

Jennifer Walker-Crawford

August 15, 2023

I went to Phila Massage because I injured my back. I went from barely able to stand up to feeling like I could actually walk normally. Best sports massage I have ever had.

Heidi Young

August 2, 2023

Joseph was incredibly knowledgeable and took the time to take care of all of my tension spots. By far the best massage I've ever had, and he was fun to talk to.

Stephanie Armstrong

July 14, 2023

Phila massages is AMAZING. I’ve been seeing Joseph for a few months now and plan to go regularly from now on. He is highly knowledgeable, very personable and really tailors the experience to your needs. He is also there to give advice and has significantly reduced my muscle pains due to exercise / stiffness. Highly recommend and ask for Joseph!

Lindy Li

July 8, 2023

Joseph Rathman is amazing! He’s an excellent massage therapist and also a fundamentally good person.

Samantha Emkes

May 2, 2023

I have been seeing Joseph Rathman for several months for physical issues I needed to address. He has done wonders for me! I'm a runner, and the wear and tear take a toll. He is a charismatic, funny, and professional therapist with knowledge of Anatomy, Kinesiology, strength & stretching techniques. I have felt such a difference since starting with Joseph. It's no day at the spa, sports massage is no joke, but I walk out feeling a million times better. I highly recommend him for a corrective sports massage!

Brooke Rhea

April 12, 2023

I survived a marathon because of Joseph at Phila Massages! I developed IT band syndrome while training for a marathon and my doctor recommended I try sports massages in conjunction with physical therapy. It was a great pairing! I scheduled sports massages with Joseph every 10-14 days during the 6 weeks leading up to my marathon and after. Joseph consulted with me before each session and asked what my physical therapist was working on so he could target the same muscles / areas. Each session was different based on my needs. As a fair warning sports massages can be very painful if your muscles are tight and overworked. Joseph made the experience as 'relaxing' as he could, including starting with a back massage before working through the knots in my legs. I noticed a difference the day after a massage, there's no doubt I was able to run better because of Phila Massages!

Amanda

April 9, 2023

Absolutely the best spot for a true sports massage. I’ve been coming to see Joseph for months and can really see an improvement, he’s the best!

Abby Brown

January 22, 2023

Holy wow! This was one of the best massages I’ve ever accidentally had! I was in Philadelphia for a quick overnight trip and was in dire need of finding a quick spot to have a deep tissue / sports style massage as I was having a lot of pain in my neck that was radiating into my arms. I was a walk in by accident as they usually only take appointment, but there happened to be an opening and I am so glad there was! I had Joseph, and he was so knowledgeable and passionate about the body, and ensuring you left feeling way better then when you came in. While this style massage is definitely not for the faint hearted (it had been months since having a proper massage so had a lot of knots), it’s extremely effective and worth every penny! I felt so much better after leaving. I highly recommend the 90 minutes to get the full benefit and asking for Joseph if he’s available ! You won’t be disappointed! I hope you enjoy as much as I did ! Will be back for sure when / if in town next. Thanks again, Joseph!!!

Liam S.

January 19, 2023

I always leave feeling amazing, Joseph is the absolute best!

Vera Schulmann

September 21, 2022

I love coming here! I see Joseph every week or two, and he is funny, kind, and very knowledgeable about the body and how the muscles can affect the body! Lately, I've noticed that standing up straight with shoulders back is easier and more natural for me! This is absolutely all Joseph's doing and I will always keep coming back here!