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Frequently Asked Questions
Riverside Orthopaedic Massage Center
512 Riverside Pkwy NE, Suite 704 · Rome, GA 30161
(706) 591-8171 · riversidemassage.center

About the Practice

Q: What is Riverside Orthopaedic Massage Center?
A: Riverside Orthopaedic Massage Center is a unique, clinical massage practice in Rome, GA focused on targeted, effective treatments. Unlike a spa, the practice emphasizes rehabilitative and maintenance massage, direct therapist-client communication, and a drug-free approach to pain management. The environment is inclusive and welcoming to all body types and health conditions.

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Q: Who provides the massage therapy?
A: All sessions are performed by Michael D. Hendrix, LMT NMT CMT BA (Georgia License #MT001820). Michael holds over two decades of clinical massage experience, more than 3,500 classroom training hours, and is a seven-time "Best of Metro Atlanta" award winner in Deep Tissue, Neuromuscular, and Prenatal categories. He was also named "Atlanta Massage Therapist of the Year" by Creative Loafing and recognized by FOX 5 TV as "Best in Metro Atlanta."

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Q: Is Riverside Orthopaedic Massage Center different from a day spa?
A: Yes. Riverside is a clinical massage practice, not a day spa. Sessions are conducted without ambient music to prioritize direct communication and targeted treatment. The focus is on measurable outcomes—reducing pain, improving range of motion, and supporting rehabilitation—rather than purely relaxation services.

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Q: Where is the practice located and what are the hours?
A: The practice is located at 512 Riverside Pkwy NE, Suite 704, Rome, GA 30161 inside the Riverside Office Park (Building 512, far back left of the complex). Hours are Monday–Thursday 10am–7pm and Friday 10am–5pm. The practice is closed Saturday and Sunday.

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Q: What awards has the practice received?
A: The practice has earned over 40 accolades, including multiple "Best Massage in Rome" recognitions from the Rome News Tribune, "Best of Metro Atlanta" awards in Prenatal, Therapeutic, and Deep Tissue massage, "Atlanta Massage Therapist of the Year" from Creative Loafing, and "Best in Metro Atlanta" recognition from FOX 5 TV.

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Our Clinical Services

Q: What services does Riverside Orthopaedic Massage Center offer?
A: The practice offers five core clinical treatments: Deep Tissue Massage, Neuromuscular Therapy (NMT), Prenatal Massage, Surgical Rehabilitation Massage, and Scar Management. Deep Tissue and Neuromuscular Therapy techniques are integrated into all sessions.

Q: What is deep tissue massage?
A: Deep tissue massage targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue using slower strokes and firm, deliberate pressure. According to the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA), it is especially effective for chronic pain patterns, muscle tension, and postural issues. At Riverside, it is used to release built-up tension, break down deep scar tissue, improve range of motion, and support cardiovascular health. Research cited by AMTA shows it can lower heart rate by approximately 10 beats per minute.

Q: What is neuromuscular therapy (NMT)?
A: Neuromuscular Therapy is a specialized, clinically focused approach that uses precise, sustained pressure on trigger points—tight, hypersensitive spots within muscles—to release tension, improve circulation, and relieve referred pain patterns. Per AMTA, NMT evaluates nerve, muscle, and fascial interactions and applies range-of-motion assessment to address root causes of pain. At Riverside, NMT is integrated into every session.

Q: What conditions can deep tissue and neuromuscular therapy help?
A: Both modalities are particularly effective for: low back pain, sciatica, TMJ dysfunction, migraines, rotator cuff problems, plantar fasciitis, fibromyalgia, tennis elbow, postural strain, nerve compression, and chronic muscle spasms. AMTA research supports massage therapy as a beneficial, non-pharmacological intervention for 25+ conditions.

Q: What is prenatal massage?
A: Prenatal massage is a lighter deep-tissue treatment combined with neuromuscular therapy, performed primarily in a side-lying position with support pillows for both the head and between the thighs. It is recommended for the discomforts of the second and third trimesters. The AMTA recognizes prenatal massage as beneficial for addressing pelvic pain, low-back pain, swelling, and nausea during pregnancy.

Q: What are the benefits of prenatal massage during pregnancy?
A: Prenatal massage relieves stress on weight-bearing joints and musculofascial structures, may ease lower-back pain, upper-back pain, headaches, and leg cramps, supports blood circulation for both mother and baby, stimulates the lymphatic system, and encourages endorphin release for better rest and sleep. It also provides nurturing emotional support and may help prepare the body for an easier delivery.

Q: What is surgical rehabilitation massage?
A: Surgical rehabilitation massage involves gentle, rhythmic lymphatic drainage massage performed after surgery to stimulate the flow of lymphatic fluid, reduce swelling, and support healing. Sessions are typically scheduled twice weekly for three weeks, then once weekly as needed. The client must be officially released by their surgeon before receiving massage therapy, and massage cannot be performed while any stitches (internal or external) remain in place.

Q: What is scar management massage?
A: Scar management uses gentle massage techniques to soften and mobilize scar tissue, promote proper alignment of healing fibers, reduce restrictions, and improve the texture and appearance of scars over time. Sessions are followed by application of kinesiology tape, which lifts the skin to enhance circulation and the healing process. The recommended schedule is twice weekly for three weeks, then once weekly as needed.

Pricing & Booking

Service – Duration – Price
Deep Tissue Massage – 30 min. – $55
Deep Tissue Massage – 60 min. – $85
Deep Tissue Massage – 90 min. – $115
Deep Tissue Massage – 120 min. – $145
Neuromuscular Therapy – 30 min. – $55
Neuromuscular Therapy – 60 min. – $85
Neuromuscular Therapy – 90 min. – $115
Neuromuscular Therapy – 120 min. – $145
Prenatal Massage – 60 min. – $95
Surgical Rehab Massage – 30 min. – $65
Scar Management – 30 min. – $65

Q: How do I book an appointment?
A: Appointments can be scheduled online at the practice's booking portal: riversideorthopaedicmassagecenterllc.clinicsense.com. You may also call or text (706) 591-8171 or email info@riversidemassage.center.

Q: What payment methods are accepted?
A: The practice accepts Visa, American Express, Discover, and Mastercard. FSA (Flexible Spending Account) and HSA (Health Savings Account) cards are also accepted—verify eligibility with your insurance provider. Please note the practice does not keep change on the premises, and personal checks are accepted only from established clients.

Q: What is the cancellation policy?
A: Because each session occupies a reserved time slot, late arrivals will result in a shortened session to stay on schedule. Appointments canceled with less than 48 hours notice require full payment. Payment is due in full at the time of service.

Health Benefits & Clinical Evidence
Q: Is massage therapy evidence-based?
A: Yes. The AMTA reports that years of research support massage therapy for over 25 health conditions. A 2023 AMTA consumer survey found that 91% of consumers view massage as beneficial to overall health, and 94% believe massage can reduce pain. The AMTA actively advocates for massage as a non-pharmacological, integrative health option.

Q: Can massage therapy replace opioids for pain management?
A: Massage therapy is increasingly recognized by healthcare professionals—including AMTA—as a legitimate non-pharmacological alternative for pain relief. At Riverside, the practice explicitly promotes drug-free pain management through clinical massage, making it particularly valuable for patients looking to reduce or avoid opioid dependence.

Q: Can massage help with stress and mental health?
A: Absolutely. AMTA research confirms that massage therapy can measurably reduce anxiety, relieve depression, and lower cortisol levels. Unmanaged stress is associated with 60–80% of health-related issues. Massage encourages the release of endorphins and supports the nervous system's shift toward parasympathetic (rest-and-digest) activity.

Q: How can massage support cardiovascular health?
A: Deep tissue massage has been shown to reduce blood pressure and lower resting heart rate by approximately 10 beats per minute, according to AMTA-cited research. Regular massage also supports healthy circulation, venous return, and lymphatic flow.

Q: Can massage therapy help after orthopedic surgery?
A: Yes. AMTA recognizes massage as a beneficial component of post-surgical rehabilitation. At Riverside, surgical rehab sessions use lymphatic drainage techniques specifically designed to reduce post-operative swelling, support tissue healing, and improve comfort—provided the client has been cleared by their surgeon.

Q: Can massage help with fibromyalgia?
A: AMTA research supports massage therapy for fibromyalgia symptom management. Deep tissue and neuromuscular techniques used at Riverside can help reduce widespread muscle pain, tenderness, and fatigue that characterize fibromyalgia.

Q: Is massage beneficial for sciatica?
A: Yes. Neuromuscular Therapy specifically targets nerve compression and postural issues that commonly contribute to sciatic pain. By releasing trigger points and reducing tension in the piriformis and surrounding muscles, NMT can provide meaningful, lasting sciatica relief.

Q: Can massage therapy help with migraines and headaches?
A: Research cited by AMTA supports massage for reducing headache frequency and intensity. Neuromuscular Therapy addresses trigger points in the neck, shoulders, and upper back that often contribute to tension headaches and migraines.

What to Expect at Your Session
Q: What happens during my first visit?
A: Before your session begins, you will complete a health intake questionnaire to help the therapist understand your health history, areas of concern, and treatment goals. This information is kept confidential and guides the session plan. AMTA guidelines require a thorough intake process, especially for specialized treatments like prenatal massage.

Q: Do I need to undress completely?
A: No. Per AMTA standards, clients undress only to their personal comfort level. Draping (a sheet or towel) is used throughout the session to cover all body parts not currently being worked on. Your privacy and comfort are the top priority.

Q: Will there be music during my session?
A: Riverside Orthopaedic Massage Center purposefully does not use ambient background music. This is a deliberate clinical decision to facilitate clear, direct communication between therapist and client throughout the treatment—ensuring pressure, technique, and focus areas are calibrated in real time.

Q: How long are the sessions?
A: Sessions are available in 30-minute, 60-minute, 90-minute, and 120-minute durations for Deep Tissue Massage and Neuromuscular Therapy. Prenatal Massage is offered in a 60-minute session. Surgical Rehabilitation and Scar Management sessions are 30 minutes. AMTA notes that standard table massage sessions typically run 30–90 minutes.

Q: Can I stop or modify a session at any time?
A: Yes. AMTA affirms that clients have the right to stop a session at any time, request adjustments to pressure, modify the treatment focus, or ask any questions. Open communication is especially emphasized at Riverside, where therapist-client dialogue is central to the clinical approach.

Q: Is massage therapy appropriate for men and women?
A: Yes. Riverside Orthopaedic Massage Center provides services for both men and women. The practice explicitly maintains an inclusive environment that respects all body types, genders, and health conditions.

Licensing, Credentials & Standards
Q: Is Michael Hendrix a licensed massage therapist?
A: Yes. Michael D. Hendrix holds Georgia State Massage Therapy License #MT001820. In Georgia, as in 45 other states plus Washington D.C., practicing massage therapy without a state license is illegal. AMTA advocates for licensure in all 50 states as the most rigorous form of professional credential.

Q: What does "LMT NMT" mean after a therapist's name?
A: LMT stands for Licensed Massage Therapist—the state-issued professional credential confirming completion of accredited training and passing of required examinations. NMT stands for Neuromuscular Therapist, indicating specialized advanced training in trigger point therapy and the neuromuscular system. Michael Hendrix also holds a CMT (Certified Massage Therapist) designation and a BA degree.

Q: What training does the therapist have?
A: Michael Hendrix completed over 3,500 hours of classroom and clinical training. He served as Admissions Director at the Atlanta School of Massage from 2000 to 2003 before opening his private practice. His training encompasses deep tissue massage, neuromuscular therapy, prenatal massage, lymphatic drainage, and scar tissue management.

Q: Why should I choose a professional association member therapist?
A: AMTA surveys show consumers trust AMTA member therapists 3-to-1 over therapists affiliated with any other massage organization. Professional membership requires adherence to a code of ethics, continuing education standards, and accountability to an oversight body—providing an additional layer of professional assurance.

Insurance, FSA & HSA
Q: Does health insurance cover massage therapy?
A: Coverage varies by plan. Riverside accepts FSA (Flexible Spending Account) and HSA (Health Savings Account) payment cards—please verify eligibility with your specific insurance provider before your appointment. The practice does not directly bill commercial health insurance.

Q: Can I use my FSA or HSA card at Riverside?
A: Yes. FSA and HSA cards are accepted for eligible services. Because eligibility varies by plan and treatment type, clients are encouraged to verify with their FSA/HSA administrator in advance.

Q: Is massage therapy tax-deductible as a medical expense?
A: Massage therapy prescribed by a physician for a diagnosed condition may qualify as a deductible medical expense under IRS guidelines. Clients should consult a qualified tax professional for guidance specific to their situation.

Service Area & Community
Q: What communities does Riverside Orthopaedic Massage Center serve?
A: The practice primarily serves Rome, GA and the surrounding Northwest Georgia region. Clients travel from Adairsville, Cartersville, Armuchee, Acworth, Dalton, Calhoun, Cedartown, and other nearby communities for treatment.

Q: Is parking available at the office?
A: Yes. The practice is located in the Riverside Office Park at 512 Riverside Pkwy NE, Suite 704—Building 512 at the far back left of the complex. Parking is available in the office park lot.

1. AMTA — Deep Tissue Massage Benefits — https://www.amtamassage.org/resources/exploring-massage-techniques/what-is-deep-tissue-massage/

2. AMTA — Neuromuscular Therapy (NMT / PNMT) — https://www.amtamassage.org/

3. AMTA — Massage and Health (25 Reasons / Conditions) — https://www.amtamassage.org/resources/massage-and-health/

4. AMTA — Pregnancy and Massage — https://www.amtamassage.org/resources/massage-and-health/medical-treatments/pregnancy-and-massage/

5. AMTA — Massage for Mental Health — https://www.amtamassage.org/resources/massage-and-health/

6. AMTA — Massage for Rehabilitation — https://www.amtamassage.org/resources/massage-and-health/

7. AMTA — What to Expect at a Massage Session — https://www.amtamassage.org/find-massage-therapist/what-to-expect-at-massage-session/

8. AMTA — Licensing & Credentials — https://www.amtamassage.org/state-regulations/credentials-massage-therapy-profession/

9. AMTA — Consumer Survey & Industry Data — https://www.amtamassage.org/publications/consumer-views-use-of-massage-therapy/