Benefits
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Targeted Work
Focused pressure on the area identified in the assessment
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Posture Support
Mobilisation techniques ease the back and shoulder line
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Ease of Movement
Joint and muscle flexibility are supported
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Regular Care
Planned sessions for long-standing tension
About
Medical massage is a focused session for chronic muscle tension in one specific area and, unlike a general relaxation massage, it begins with a short assessment. It works on the areas most affected by long hours of sitting or repetitive movement: the back, the neck and shoulder line and the lower (lumbar) back. The word "medical" describes the approach: this session is not a medical treatment and does not replace treatment recommended by your doctor.
What happens during the session?
- Assessment: You talk your therapist through the movements and positions you find difficult, how long the tension has lasted and whether you have had any injuries.
- Preparation: The area is prepared with a warm or cold application.
- Targeted work: Localised pressure, joint mobilisation and myofascial release focus on the area identified in the assessment.
- Closing: The session ends with calming strokes, followed by herbal tea.
The session lasts 50 minutes with firm pressure; the intensity is adjusted to the area and to how it feels at the time.
Who is it for?
It suits people who spend long hours at a desk, often feel stiffness along the neck and shoulders, or have back and lower-back tension linked to posture habits. When tension is concentrated in one area, this session is more effective than a massage spread over the whole body.
When to consult your doctor first
In the following situations, consult your doctor before your session and let us know when booking:
- A diagnosed herniated disc in the lower back or neck, or a spinal or joint condition
- Pain radiating into an arm or leg, numbness, tingling or loss of strength
- A recent fall, blow or injury
- Osteoporosis, a clotting disorder or blood-thinning medication
- Pregnancy, fever or an acute illness
Medical massage or another massage?
- Deep Tissue Massage: slow, firm work on tension settled along the whole back and shoulder line rather than in one specific area.
- Sports Massage: adjusted to your training schedule, with a focus on large muscle groups and flexibility.
- Spot Massage: a shorter, lighter 30-minute option focused on a single area.
- Classic Swedish Massage: when your goal is overall relaxation rather than one area.
After your session
- Mild tenderness in the treated area for 24–48 hours is normal.
- Drink plenty of water and avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise on the same day.
- If the pain increases or a new symptom appears, see your doctor.
About Medical Massage
Is medical massage a medical treatment?
No. Medical massage is a spa treatment focused on muscle tension in a specific area; it does not diagnose and does not replace treatment recommended by your doctor. If you have a diagnosed condition, we recommend consulting your doctor before your session.
What is the difference between medical massage and deep tissue massage?
Medical massage begins with an assessment and focuses on one identified area, such as the neck and shoulders or the lower back, using techniques like joint mobilisation. Deep tissue massage works on tension settled along the whole back and shoulder line with a slow pace and firm pressure.
Can I have a medical massage with a herniated disc?
Consult your doctor first. If your doctor agrees, mention your diagnosis when booking so the session can be planned accordingly. If you have pain radiating into an arm or leg, numbness or loss of strength, a medical assessment is essential before any massage.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on how long the tension has lasted and on your daily habits. A single session can bring a sense of relief; for long-standing tension, a regular plan of several sessions tends to work better. Your therapist will suggest a plan based on the first assessment.
How long does a Medical Massage session take?
A Medical Massage session takes 50 minutes. You can choose the duration that suits you when booking.
Who is Medical Massage suitable for?
Medical Massage is suitable for those with chronic muscle tension, guests with posture-related back tension, those who often feel neck and shoulder stiffness and people who work long hours at a desk. Please let us know before your appointment if you are pregnant, have had recent surgery or have a chronic condition.
Which areas does Medical Massage focus on?
The treatment focuses on back, neck, shoulders and lumbar region. You can agree your priority areas with your therapist at the start of the session.
What is included in a Medical Massage session?
The session includes hot/cold therapy, localized pressure, mobilization techniques and herbal tea.
Where in Istanbul and Izmir can I book Medical Massage?
Medical Massage is available at the Aqua Plus branches in Bagcilar, Fatih, Sisli, Zeytinburnu, Pendik and Bayrakli. All branches are open seven days a week (10:00 – 22:00 / 23:00); choose the branch nearest to you when booking.
What are the benefits of Medical Massage?
Key effects: targeted work, posture support, ease of movement and regular care. How long the effect lasts varies by person and with regular treatment.
How do I book Medical Massage?
You can book online by selecting a branch, date and time slot, or contact the branch directly by phone or WhatsApp. We recommend booking ahead to avoid waiting at peak times.
Where to Get Medical Massage
Medical Massage is available at all six Aqua Plus branches. Choose the one closest to you; the booking form opens with the branch and service already selected.
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ISTANBUL · BAğCıLAR
Medical Massage in Bağcılar
Near: Güneşli, Kirazlı, Yenibosna
M1B metro line (Bağcılar–Kirazlı), the Mahmutbey–Bağcılar axis and the Basın Ekspres connection; metrobus via Yenibosna/Şirinevler.
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ISTANBUL · FATIH
Medical Massage in Fatih
Near: Çapa, Aksaray, Vatan
Reachable via the T1 Kabataş–Bağcılar tram (Fındıkzade / Çapa–Şehremini stops) and the M1A metro line (Aksaray).
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ISTANBUL · ŞIşLI
Medical Massage in Şişli
Near: Mecidiyeköy, Gayrettepe, Esentepe
The M2 metro (Şişli–Mecidiyeköy), M7 metro (Mecidiyeköy–Mahmutbey) and the Mecidiyeköy metrobus stop are within walking distance.
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ISTANBUL · ZEYTINBURNU
Medical Massage in Zeytinburnu
Near: Cevizlibağ, Topkapı, Maltepe Mahallesi
Reachable via the Zeytinburnu M1A metro / T1 tram interchange, the Cevizlibağ metrobus stop and the E-5 highway.
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ISTANBUL · PENDIK
Medical Massage in Pendik
Near: Kaynarca, Sapanbağları, Kurtköy
Reachable via the M4 metro line (Kaynarca–Pendik), the Marmaray Pendik station and the D-100 / coastal road.
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IZMIR · BAYRAKLı
Medical Massage in Bayraklı
Near: Adalet, Mansuroğlu, Manavkuyu
