Find answers to our most frequently asked questions below. If there is anything not covered here please get in touch and we will be happy to help.

📅 Booking and Pricing

How do I book an appointment?

You can book online anytime via our bookings page. Simply choose your treatment, select a duration and follow the steps to choose your date and time. If you prefer to talk first, call or WhatsApp us on 07912 609143.

How much do treatments cost?

Prices vary depending on the treatment and duration. As a guide, most 60 minute treatments are £50 and 90 minutes are £70. You can see full pricing on our bookings page.

What is your cancellation policy?

We completely understand that life happens. If your circumstances change, just get in touch and we will always do our best to rearrange your appointment or provide a full refund. We just ask for as much notice as possible.

Do you offer gift vouchers?

Yes! Our gift vouchers are personalised and delivered by email instantly, making them the perfect last minute gift. You can purchase one on our gift vouchers page.

Do you offer a VIP membership?

Yes. Our VIP membership gives you regular massage at a significantly reduced rate, with added perks on joining and on your birthday. Find out more on our VIP membership page.

Do you accept cash?

We take payment online in advance when booking. This helps us prepare for your treatment and ensures a smooth, relaxed experience from the moment you arrive. If you have any questions about payment please get in touch.

Can I call to ask a question before booking?

Ema is often treating and unable to answer the phone. The best way to get in touch is to send a message via WhatsApp or email. If you need a call back, just say so in your message and Ema will call you at a convenient time. For same day bookings, drop a message first as Ema usually needs around 4 hours notice, but if she has availability she can sometimes accommodate sooner.

🌸 Pregnancy Massage

Is pregnancy massage safe?

Yes. Pregnancy massage is safe and beneficial when carried out by a qualified specialist. Ema has over 25 years of experience and is trained specifically in pregnancy and maternity massage. Her Level 6 Distinction dissertation was on pelvic girdle pain in pregnancy, and she works closely with midwives across the region. Find out more on our pregnancy massage page.

Is pregnancy massage safe in the first trimester?

Yes. Ema is trained and insured to treat from just a few weeks into pregnancy. Every client is assessed individually and Ema will always advise honestly if she feels it is not the right time to treat. If you are in your first trimester and would like advice or to book, just get in touch and we will be happy to help.

What position will I be in during a pregnancy massage?

You will be lying on your side, fully supported by soft V-shaped pregnancy pillows. This is the safest and most comfortable position. You will always be well covered and your modesty maintained throughout.

What if I go into labour or need to cancel my pregnancy massage?

We completely understand that pregnancy is unpredictable! If you need to cancel or reschedule for any reason, just get in touch and we will always rearrange your appointment or provide a full refund. No quibbles, no fuss.

How often should I have a pregnancy massage?

This depends on your individual needs. Many clients come monthly in the second trimester, fortnightly in the third, and weekly in the final four weeks. Ema will advise you on the best schedule at your first appointment.

Can I have a pregnancy massage if I have a high risk pregnancy?

In many cases yes. Please consult your doctor or midwife first and obtain a release form. Many doctors and midwives actively advocate for pregnancy massage and Ema has the experience and training to treat many high risk clients safely. She understands the red flags and will always refer you back to your medical team if needed. Get in touch and we will advise you.

Do you offer postnatal massage?

Yes! Ema has treated clients just a couple of weeks after giving birth. Every client is assessed individually and Ema works closely with your medical team to make sure the timing is right for you. Postnatal massage is wonderful for muscle recovery, scar tissue work, feeding posture and general wellbeing after birth. Find out more on our postnatal massage page.

💆 Clinical Massage and Pain Relief

What is clinical massage and how is it different to relaxation massage?

Clinical massage is a targeted, evidence based treatment for pain, injury and dysfunction. Unlike relaxation massage which focuses on general wellbeing, clinical massage uses advanced techniques to address the root cause of your pain. Find out more on our clinical massage page.

What conditions can you treat?

We treat a wide range of conditions including back pain, sciatica, neck and shoulder pain, pelvic girdle pain, foot and ankle pain, migraines and TMJ jaw pain. If you are unsure whether we can help with your condition, just get in touch.

How many sessions will I need?

This varies depending on your condition and how long you have been experiencing it. Many clients feel significant improvement after just one or two sessions. For chronic or long standing conditions, a course of treatments is usually recommended. Ema will advise you at your first appointment.

Will the massage be painful?

Clinical massage can involve some discomfort when working on tight or painful areas, but it should never be unbearable. Ema always calms the nervous system first, ensuring you are relaxed before working into any painful areas. She will always check in with you and adjust the pressure to suit your needs. Many clients describe it as a "good pain" that brings real relief.

Why does pressure on a trigger point sometimes feel scratchy or sharp?

Some clients describe pressure on a trigger point as scratchy or sharp. Ema keeps her nails short, so this sensation is not from scratching. It is the body's response to the trigger point itself, and it usually eases off while she maintains steady pressure on the area.

What is an orthopaedic assessment?

Every treatment begins with a thorough orthopaedic assessment before any hands-on work starts. Ema will review your consultation form, ask you questions about your pain history, when it started, what makes it better or worse, and any previous treatments you have tried. She will then ask you to perform a series of small, gentle movements to help identify exactly where the pain is coming from and what is causing it. This assessment is what separates clinical massage from a standard massage. It means nothing is guesswork and every treatment is precisely targeted to your specific needs. Find out more on our orthopaedic assessment page.

Do I need to fill in a consultation form before my appointment?

Yes. Completing our consultation form before your appointment helps Ema prepare specifically for you. It covers your pain history, medical background, any previous treatments and your goals for the session. The more detail you provide the better Ema can prepare your treatment plan in advance. The form is quick and easy to complete online.

Do you give advice and exercises as part of the treatment?

Yes, always. Ema believes that self care between sessions is just as important as the treatment itself. After every appointment you will receive personalised advice, self-massage tips, postural guidance and take home exercises tailored to your specific condition. Self care videos are also coming soon to support you further between sessions.

Should I take painkillers before my appointment?

Please make sure any painkillers are out of your system before you come for treatment. Paracetamol and aspirin need at least 4 hours to clear. Ibuprofen and stronger painkillers need at least 6 hours. If your pain is masked, Ema cannot accurately feel what is going on in the tissue and cannot treat it as effectively. If you have taken painkillers at the wrong time do not worry, just get in touch and we will reschedule for a time that works.

What is myofascial release and is it included in my treatment?

Myofascial release is a specialist soft tissue technique that targets the fascia, the connective tissue that surrounds and runs through every muscle, bone, nerve and organ in the body. When fascia becomes tight or restricted it creates pain, limits movement and affects the whole body, often in areas far from where the problem originates. It is one of the core techniques Ema uses in every Advanced Clinical Massage session alongside trigger point therapy, neuromuscular therapy and orthopaedic assessment. For those who want a full body myofascial release as a dedicated course of treatment, this is also something Ema offers. Find out more on our myofascial release page.

🔬 Clinical Massage vs Physio, Chiropractor and Osteopath

What is the difference between clinical massage and physiotherapy?

Physiotherapists are highly skilled practitioners who work with movement, function and rehabilitation. A typical physio appointment often includes assessment, exercise prescription, advice and some hands-on work. With Ema you get a thorough orthopaedic assessment, a full session of advanced hands-on soft tissue treatment, personalised self care advice and take-home exercises, all in one appointment. Ema is trained with Jing Advanced Massage Training, whose therapists are specifically trained to treat chronic musculoskeletal pain using advanced soft tissue techniques that get to the root cause rather than managing symptoms. Clinical massage and physiotherapy complement each other well. Many clients see both and find the combination accelerates their recovery significantly.

What is the difference between clinical massage and chiropractic?

Chiropractors focus primarily on the spine and joints, using spinal adjustments and manipulation. Ema's approach is entirely soft tissue based with no cracking or manipulation. Where a chiropractor works primarily with the skeletal structure, Ema works with the muscles, fascia and soft tissue, which is very often where chronic pain actually originates, even when it feels like a joint or bone problem. Ema also provides a thorough assessment, dedicated hands-on soft tissue treatment and personalised self care guidance in every session. Many clients come to Ema specifically because they want effective hands-on treatment without spinal manipulation. Clinical massage and chiropractic can work very well together too.

What is the difference between clinical massage and osteopathy?

Osteopaths take a holistic view of the body and use a combination of soft tissue work, stretching, joint mobilisation and manipulation. Like Ema, they look at the whole body rather than just the painful area. The key difference is that Ema specialises entirely in advanced soft tissue and myofascial work, trained to the highest level available in the UK with Jing Advanced Massage Training. Where an osteopath uses a broad range of techniques including manipulation, Ema goes deeper into the soft tissue than most osteopaths will. The two approaches complement each other well and many clients see both.

Should I see a physio or a massage therapist for back pain?

Both can be very effective for back pain. A physiotherapist is often the right choice if your pain follows an acute injury and you need a formal rehabilitation programme. Clinical massage is often more effective for chronic or long standing back pain, where the soft tissue has become tight, restricted or dysfunctional over time. If you are unsure, get in touch and Ema will advise honestly, even if that means pointing you towards a different practitioner.

Can I have clinical massage alongside my physio or chiropractic treatment?

Absolutely, and many clients do. Clinical massage works brilliantly alongside other treatments and often accelerates recovery. Ema is happy to work alongside your existing healthcare team and can communicate with other practitioners if helpful.

Does Ema refer clients to other practitioners?

Yes, always if it is the right thing to do. Ema regularly refers clients to GPs, chiropractors, osteopaths and other specialists where she feels another practitioner can help more effectively. Your health and wellbeing always comes first. If after your assessment Ema feels you would benefit more from a different type of treatment, she will tell you honestly and point you in the right direction. This is something Ema feels very strongly about.

Why choose Ema over an NHS physiotherapist?

NHS physiotherapy is excellent but waiting lists can be many months long. Ema typically has appointments available within days. You also get a thorough assessment, a full dedicated soft tissue session and personalised self care guidance all in one appointment, every time. Many clients use Ema while waiting for NHS physio, or alongside their NHS treatment, and find the two work very well together.

🏥 What to Expect

What happens at my first appointment?

Your first appointment begins with a short consultation and orthopaedic assessment so Ema can fully understand your needs. She will then carry out your treatment, tailored specifically to you. After your treatment you will receive personalised advice, self-massage tips and exercises to take home. You will leave feeling lighter, more comfortable and genuinely cared for.

Do I need to undress for a massage?

It depends on the treatment. For relaxation, pregnancy or hot stones massage most people undress to their underwear as the whole body is treated. For clinical massage it depends on the area being treated. For reflexology only the feet need to be accessible. Whatever you decide, you will always be properly covered to ensure your privacy and comfort. We can also work over clothing if you prefer.

What should I wear?

Loose, comfortable clothing is best. For pregnancy massage, if wearing a bra make sure it is easily removable. For clinical massage, clothing that allows easy access to the area being treated is helpful.

What is the treatment room like?

Our clinic sits on the edge of a beautiful woodland park creating a wonderfully calm environment. The treatment room is warm, private and well ventilated. You can also choose to have music played digitally during your treatment.

Is there parking available?

Yes, parking is available at the clinic. We are located at 82 Whitchurch Close, Warrington, WA1 4JZ. View on Google Maps.

What are your opening hours?

Monday: 10:00 to 19:30. Tuesday: 10:00 to 19:30. Wednesday: Closed. Thursday: 10:00 to 20:00. Friday: 10:00 to 19:30. Saturday: 10:00 to 17:30. Sunday: Closed.

👩‍⚕️ About Ema and the Clinic

Who carries out the treatments and what are their qualifications?

All treatments are carried out by Ema Gregory-Scott, owner of Warrington Pain Clinic. Ema has over 25 years of clinical experience and holds a BTEC Level 6 Professional Diploma in Advanced Clinical and Sports Massage, the highest massage qualification available in the UK, achieved with Distinction Honours. She is qualified in IIHHT, ITEC and VTCT and has completed 13 specialist clinical courses with Jing Advanced Massage Training. Find out more on our About Me page.

Is the clinic suitable for elderly clients?

Absolutely. Ema works with clients of all ages and tailors every treatment to the individual. If you have any specific requirements or concerns please get in touch before booking and we will make sure everything is in place for your visit.

What is massage therapy?

Massage therapy is the manipulation of soft tissues in the body including muscles, tendons, ligaments and fascia, using various techniques to help alleviate pain, reduce stress and promote overall wellness.

What are the benefits of massage therapy?

Massage therapy has numerous benefits including reducing muscle tension and pain, improving circulation and flexibility, boosting the immune system, reducing stress and anxiety, promoting better sleep and increasing overall relaxation and wellbeing.

Still have a question? WhatsApp us or call 07912 609143 and we will be happy to help.