Massage Therapy · Bristol
Massage Therapy and Sports Massage in Bristol
Introductory Massage Offer — £40
First Consultation and Massage (usually £54))
Massage therapy in Bristol, delivered at Hanham Hall by Aaron Lightbody, a Level 5 qualified remedial and sports massage therapist. Aaron specialises in pain relief, injury recovery, and long-term soft tissue health. We treat sports injuries, muscle tension, postural strain, and a wide range of MSK conditions, with personalised treatment and a straightforward, no-pressure approach.
Since 2020
Serving Bristol & Hanham
220+
Verified Patient Reviews
5.0 ⭐
220+ Google Reviews
Level 5
Qualified Therapist
Bristol Massage Offer
Introductory Massage Therapy Offer
First Consultation
and Massage Treatment
· The Hanham Clinic, Bristol
and Massage Treatment
· The Hanham Clinic, Bristol
£40
Usually £54
Introductory rate
First Consultation and Massage
- Full Health and Symptom Discussion
- Postural and Physical Assessment
- Personalised First Massage Treatment
- Aftercare Advice and Stretching Guidance
- Treatment Plan and Recommendation
Your First Appointment
Your Initial Massage Consultation
Here is exactly what to expect at your first massage appointment. Every new patient receives a full assessment before treatment begins.
1
Discussion of Health and Symptoms
Your appointment begins with a detailed conversation about your health history, lifestyle, and current symptoms. This allows Aaron to understand your needs and design a treatment plan around your specific goals.
2
Postural and Physical Assessment
A brief postural and physical assessment identifies areas of tension, restriction, or muscular imbalance. This ensures your massage is targeted rather than following a generic routine.
3
First Massage Treatment
Based on the assessment findings, your first personalised massage treatment begins. The technique used — sports massage, deep tissue, therapeutic, or trigger point — is selected to suit your condition and comfort level.
4
Aftercare Advice
After your session, Aaron will provide practical aftercare guidance including stretches, self-care tips, and lifestyle recommendations to help you extend the benefits between appointments.
5
Your Treatment Plan
If ongoing treatment would benefit you, Aaron will outline a clear plan covering expected session frequency and goals. You are never committed to a fixed number of sessions upfront.
Our Treatments
Your Initial Massage Consultation
Our chiropractors assess and treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions affecting the spine, joints, and soft tissues. Whether it is a recent injury or a long-standing issue, we identify the root cause and create a personalised plan to get you moving again. We always start with an initial consultation, where we establish the cause of your pain and agree a plan of action.
Sports Massage and Deep Tissue
Firmer, targeted techniques to address muscle fatigue, overuse injuries, and soft tissue strain. Suitable for athletes and active people as well as those with physically demanding occupations. Supports recovery, improves performance, and helps prevent future injury.
Therapeutic Massage
Gentler techniques to ease muscle tension, improve circulation, and reduce everyday aches. Well suited to stress relief, general recovery, and patients who prefer a less intensive approach. Each session is tailored to your comfort and individual needs.
Trigger Point Therapy
A focused technique that targets painful knots and tight bands within muscles that cause local or referred pain. Reduces discomfort, improves mobility, and restores normal muscle function. Particularly effective for chronic tension and injury-related muscular restriction.
Why Choose Us
Why Choose The Hanham Clinic for Massage Therapy in Bristol
Clinical massage therapy delivered within a fully equipped MSK clinic, by a qualified therapist who treats the cause rather than the symptom.
Clinically Qualified, Not Spa-Trained
Aaron Lightbody holds a Level 5 Diploma in Remedial and Sports Massage Therapy, the highest vocational qualification in this field, alongside a Life Sciences diploma from the Open University and specialist gait analysis training. Every treatment is adapted to clinical findings, not delivered from a fixed script.
Assessment Before Every Treatment
Every new patient receives a full case history, postural assessment, and movement assessment before treatment begins. This ensures your massage targets the right tissues and is adapted to your specific presentation rather than following a generic technique.
Part of an Integrated MSK Clinic
Massage therapy at The Hanham Clinic sits within a full MSK clinical environment. If your condition needs input from chiropractic care, diagnostic ultrasound, or other services, they are available from the same team in the same building. No referral required between practitioners.
Works Alongside Your Chiropractic Care
Many patients at The Hanham Clinic combine massage therapy with chiropractic treatment. The two approaches complement each other well. massage addresses soft tissue tension while chiropractic works on joint mechanics. Both can be coordinated to maximise your results.
Patient Testimonials
What Our Patients Say
5.0
★★★★★
220+ Google reviews
220+ Google reviews
I saw Aaron today and I feel so much better my lower back has been agony for days I feel so good now I can walk so much better and I’m looking forward to seeing him again next week and I will keep on seeing him for damaged disc maintenance
Excellent therapeutic massage! The therapist is highly skilled and focuses on posture and body alignment rather than just a basic massage. I felt heard and my specific issues were addressed. Highly recommend!
Brilliant clinic! Aaron has worked wonders with myself, after numerous attempts at seeking help at my local GP and not getting any answers I decided to try a chiropractor I’ve known Aaron for many years and only ever heard good things. Since starting treatment 6 months ago I’m now able to stop having time off work and start enjoying life again not waking up in pain! It’s a very professional clinic and always have a warm welcome by all staff members.
Aaron at the practice is outstanding, professional and very knowledgeable often explaining the treatment he is providing. I have been seeing him due to my frozen shoulder, and what a difference he has made. I am now able to move the shoulder something that I could not do before. The intense pain and dull ache that I felt has disappeared. I have so much more movement in the shoulder and arm, I’m sure I will gain full movement and I believe this is solely down to the expertise of Aaron and The Hanham Clinic. The reception staff are welcoming and helpful. I would definitely promote The Hanham Clinic: Chiropractor & Sports Massage.
Soft Tissue, Remedial & Sports Massage Therapist
Aaron Lightbody
- Level 5 Diploma in Remedial & Sports Massage Therapy
- Diploma in Life Sciences, The Open University
- Trained in Gait Analysis & Movement Assessment
- Sports Massage & Remedial Massage Therapist
Aaron is a skilled Remedial and Sports Massage Therapist dedicated to helping his clients achieve optimal health. With a Level 5 Diploma in Remedial and Sports Massage Therapy and a Life Sciences diploma from the Open University, Aaron combines a strong scientific foundation with advanced therapeutic techniques.
At The Hanham Clinic, Aaron is committed to delivering personalised care to clients of all activity levels. He is fascinated by all aspects of soft tissue therapy and has a particular interest in addressing posture and movement mechanics. Aaron has experience in treating sporting individuals as well as managing chronic pain and other conditions that affect those of more advanced age.
Aaron will tailor each session to his client’s specific needs, focusing on easing muscular tension, supporting injury recovery, and enhancing overall mobility and wellness. In addition to his professional training, Aaron is a dedicated runner, bringing a personal understanding of fitness and biomechanics into his work.
Recently, he has undertaken further training in gait analysis to further support his clients in optimising movement patterns, preventing injuries, and improving alignment.
Known for his empathetic approach, as well as his hands-on techniques, Aaron strives to provide an all-round approach. He helps his clients achieve their health goals with confidence and care.
Our Coverage Area
Areas We Serve Across Bristol
Our massage therapy clinic is based in Hanham (BS15) with easy access from across Bristol and South Gloucestershire.
Bristol
Clifton
Downend
Fishponds
Keynsham
Longwell GreenEmersons Green
Lyde Green
Kingswood
More Information
FAQs About Massage Therapy in Bristol
Everything you need to know about massage therapy at The Hanham Clinic. If your question is not answered here, call us on 07946 426514 or email info@hanhamclinic.co.uk
Who will carry out my massage treatment?
All massage treatments at The Hanham Clinic are provided by Aaron Lightbody, our in-house soft tissue therapist. Aaron holds a Level 5 Diploma in Remedial and Sports Massage Therapy and a Life Sciences diploma from the Open University. He has additional training in gait analysis and movement assessment, and a particular interest in posture, soft tissue mechanics, and injury recovery.
What should I expect at my first appointment?
Your first appointment begins with a full case history covering your reason for visiting, relevant medical background, and your treatment preferences. Aaron will then carry out a brief physical and postural assessment before discussing his proposed approach with you. Your first treatment takes place in the same session, with your full consent, and will be adapted to your comfort level throughout.
What are the benefits of massage therapy?
Massage therapy has well-documented physical and psychological benefits. Patients commonly report:
- Reduced muscle tension and discomfort
- Improved range of movement and flexibility
- Faster recovery from physical activity or injury
- Better sleep quality
- Reduced stress and improved general sense of wellbeing
What is the difference between sports massage and therapeutic massage?
Sports massage uses firmer, more targeted techniques to address muscle fatigue, overuse, and injury. It is suitable for active people and athletes, and for anyone experiencing physically demanding work or training. Therapeutic massage uses gentler techniques and is well suited to general tension, stress relief, and recovery from everyday aches. Both are available at The Hanham Clinic and can be combined within the same session where appropriate.
Can massage and chiropractic treatment be combined?
Yes, and many patients at The Hanham Clinic choose to use both. Massage works on soft tissue tension while chiropractic addresses joint mechanics and spinal function. The two approaches complement each other well. Both services are provided here and no referral is needed between practitioners.
Does massage feel uncomfortable?
This depends on the type of massage and your personal preference. Therapeutic massage is generally relaxing and comfortable throughout. Sports and deep tissue massage may involve firmer pressure that can feel uncomfortable at times, particularly where muscles are already tight or sore. Aaron always works within your comfort level and will adjust pressure throughout the session to suit you.
Do I need a GP referral for massage therapy?
No. You can book directly without a referral from your GP or any other healthcare professional. If your condition is complex or may benefit from further clinical investigation, Aaron can discuss the options available within the clinic, including chiropractic assessment or diagnostic ultrasound.
How many sessions will I need?
This varies depending on your condition and how your body responds to treatment. For acute issues, improvement is often noticeable within 2 to 4 sessions. For chronic tension or ongoing maintenance, many patients benefit from regular monthly treatment. Aaron will give you an honest recommendation at your first appointment and will not ask you to commit to more sessions than are genuinely needed.
Get Started Today
Ready to Move Better and Feel Stronger?
Book your appointment at The Hanham Clinic today. Same-week availability, flexible hours, and a team that genuinely cares about your recovery.
Or email us: info@hanhamclinic.co.uk
The Hanham Clinic · 1A–1B Hanham Hall · Whittucks Road · Bristol · BS15 3FR
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Find us
Visit us at Hanham Hall, Bristol
The Hanham Clinic
Units 1A & 1B, Hanham Hall
Whittucks Road, Hanham
Bristol, BS15 3FR
Whittucks Road, Hanham
Bristol, BS15 3FR
07946 426514
info@hanhamclinic.co.uk
info@hanhamclinic.co.uk
Monday:
8:00am – 8:00pm
Tuesday – Friday:
8:00am – 7:00pm
Saturday:
8:00am – 1:00pm
Sunday:
Closed
From Hanham High Street, turn onto Whittucks Road at the Blue Bowl pub and continue for approximately 300 yards, passing Hanham GP Surgery on your left. Free parking is available on Roman Way and Rogers Court, both on your left. Hanham Hall is the large white Grade II listed building set back from the main road. Access to the clinic is via the double doors on the far side of the building, overlooking the lawn.
All Our Services
Specialist Services, All Under One Roof
From hands-on chiropractic care and sports massage to diagnostic imaging and guided injections, The Hanham Clinic brings together a comprehensive range of musculoskeletal services, meaning you rarely need to go anywhere else.
Chiropractic
Expert hands-on care for back pain, sciatica, neck pain, and a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. Evidence-based, GCC-regulated, and tailored to you.
MRI Scans
Our brand-new open-design MRI scanner provides detailed imaging for complex MSK conditions. Fast access, specialist reporting, from £299. No GP referral needed.
Shockwave Therapy
A non-invasive treatment using acoustic energy to stimulate healing in tendons, ligaments, and chronic soft tissue injuries. Highly effective for conditions that haven’t responded elsewhere.
MSK Ultrasound
High-resolution diagnostic ultrasound for musculoskeletal injuries, enabling accurate diagnosis and treatment planning without the wait for hospital imaging.
Massage Therapy
Targeted soft tissue therapy to reduce muscle tension, aid recovery, and address the root cause of injury. Ideal alongside chiropractic care or as a standalone treatment.
Guided Injections
Precision injections delivered under live ultrasound guidance for maximum accuracy. Suitable for joint pain, bursitis, tendinopathy, and more.