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Simply: I use my feet as the main tools of the massage.

It’s not the same as “walking on people.” Instead, barefoot massage uses the broad, grounded pressure of the feet to deliver a deeper, more even sensation than hands can provide. Clients often describe it as deeply relaxing and satisfying, and their first experience with the level of pressure they crave.

Here’s what my clients often tell me after their sessions:

• "I couldn't even tell you were using your feet for most of it."

• "It was so slow and really sunk in."

• "I’ve never had a massage that deep before."

• "It didn’t hurt as much as I expected."

• "I fell asleep way faster than I thought I would."

First-time clients often leave the studio feeling deeply relaxed and “spaced out.” They frequently report sleeping exceptionally well that night, experiencing an improved sense of well-being for days afterward, and being surprised by how effective and long-lasting the results are.

In some cases, clients have returned months later to share that chronic issues they’d been struggling with—sometimes for years—were significantly relieved after just one session. While I can’t guarantee miraculous results, sometimes all it takes is a foot in the upper traps while your neck melts under gentle traction to turn things around. (I do guarantee improvement!)

Most people curious about barefoot massage find it to be a great fit.

That said, I designed my practice around clients that are big bodied. The work is best performed on clients that are larger than the LMT —and I’m not petite, typically weighing 180–190 lbs.

This is awesome because traditional massage spaces are not always comfortable for larger bodies. My mat is 42” wide—a full foot wider than the standard 28–30” massage table. Your arms won’t slip off the sides, and you’ll have room to change positions without worrying about falling off.

Working on the floor also eliminates the subtle wobble common with most massage tables. The groundedness creates a sense of safety, helping you fully relax into the massage.

While barefoot massage is a great option for many, there are some circumstances where I may need to refer you to another excellent LMT.

This is not a comprehensive list; my intake form is thorough and provides a basis for making informed decisions about your safety.

Situations barefoot massage is contraindicated:

• Pregnancy

• Cancer in active treatment

• Osteoporosis

• Certain blood pathologies including risk of DVT, clotting issues, aneurism, and stroke.

• Acute or chronic renal disease

• Sequestered spinal discs (unless fused)

In some cases, even after treatment of these conditions and clearance from your physician, barefoot massage may still not be the best choice for you. Fortunately, in Pittsburgh, there are many excellent LMTs offering modalities that might be a safer and more effective fit for your circumstances.

Situations that may require additional information, or are safe with modifications to the session:

• Surgery

  • Minor surgeries require 6+ weeks to heal.

  • Major surgeries may need 6-12 months to heal. Get cleared by your physician for exercise and massage.

  • Cosmetic Implants/Enhancements need 9+ months to heal before barefoot massage is safe.

• Fractures. Bones must be fully healed and cleared by a doctor.

• Some medications, such as prednisone, cancer drugs, radiation treatments, or proton pump inhibitors, may lead to bone density loss. Let’s discuss your specific situation to ensure safety.