TREATMENT IN NW Portland Massage Therapy
Therapeutic bodywork that supports your healing, movement, and overall well-being
Looking for expert massage therapy in NW Portland that does more than just help you relax? At our clinic near Slabtown and the Pearl District, our licensed massage therapists work hand-in-hand with our chiropractic team to provide targeted, therapeutic treatment for pain, tension, and recovery.
What is Therapeutic Massage Therapy?
Massage therapy at our clinic isn’t your typical spa-style massage. Our therapists specialize in medical and sports massage designed to improve function, relieve pain, and restore movement.
We take a goal-oriented approach in treatment, using a combination of techniques like deep tissue massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and soft tissue mobilization—tailored to what your body needs most.
Benefits of Massage Therapy
- Relieves muscle tension and stress
- Reduces pain and inflammation
- Improves mobility and posture
- Supports recovery from injury
- Boosts circulation and healing
- Complements chiropractic care
Conditions Massage Therapy Helps Treat
How We Treat with Massage Therapy
Our massage therapists are part of your care team. They communicate directly with our chiropractors to make sure you’re getting the right treatment at the right time. Whether it’s part of a comprehensive care plan or a standalone visit, massage at our clinic is always focused on getting real, lasting results.
We offer 30-, 45-, and 60-minute sessions based on your goals. Many of our patients rotate between chiropractic, massage, and rehab services to stay ahead of pain and maintain performance.
What Our Patients Are Saying
How Massage Therapy Supports Long-Term Healing
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Meet Your Team
Our massage therapists bring years of experience working with elite athletes, weekend warriors, and everyday people who want to feel and move better.
As part of our integrated care team, they work closely with our chiropractors to create a customized plan for your unique needs—whether you’re dealing with an injury, training for a race, or just want to feel more comfortable in your body.
You don’t have to be an athlete to benefit from this level of care. We’re here to help you feel great and stay active—on your terms.
Dr. Chris Zander
Dr. Zander has developed a reputation for being one of the top Chiropractors on the West Coast and is a past President of the Oregon Chiropractic Association. Due to his training and experience, he has had success with patients that felt other specialties, including Chiropractic, had not helped them in the past. He is dedicated to treating patients safely and effectively to get them well, stay and live happy healthy lives.
He has worked with a wide range of patients, from individuals managing common aches and injuries to professional and collegiate athletes, including NHL draft picks, PGA Tour golfers, Olympians, and athletes from NFL, NBA, MLS, NWSl, and X Games. Regardless of background or activity level, Dr. Zander brings the same thoughtful care and attention to every patient.
Dr. Zander earned degrees in biology and chemistry from the University of Illinois and his Doctor of Chiropractic from Western States Chiropractic College, where he is now an adjunct professor. He has practiced in the Pacific Northwest since 2006 and collaborates with a trusted network of healthcare providers to ensure each patient receives the right care at the right time.
Dr. David Higginson
With nearly two decades of chiropractic experience, Dr. David brings a broad and well-rounded background to the clinic. Over the course of his career, he has practiced in a variety of settings, including owning and managing his own clinic, working as an associate chiropractor, and teaching as an attending physician at a chiropractic university. For the past ten years, he has focused extensively on pediatric and prenatal chiropractic care as part of a specialized clinic.
Dr. David earned his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Western States Chiropractic College in Portland, Oregon, graduating Cum Laude. His clinical skills include both diversified and low-force spinal and extremity adjustments. He holds certifications in sports chiropractic, instrument assisted techniques, pediatric and prenatal care, soft tissue therapy, and physical therapy modalities such as rehabilitative exercise and electrotherapy.
Originally from British Columbia, Dr. David moved to Portland in 2002. Outside the clinic, he stays active with his family, coaching and cheering on his three teenage sons in ultimate frisbee and basketball, enjoying the outdoors and walking his pug with his partner.
Shinichiro, LMT
Shinichiro is a graduate of East West College and is eager to share his knowledge with the Backsmith Community. He provides personalized, intuitive based massage therapy for our patients. He utilizes a variety of different techniques such as Swedish, Deep Tissue and
Myofascial.
Originally from Kyoto, Japan, Shinichiro has lived in Portland for the past few years. In his free time, he enjoys playing with his dog, swimming, playing the piano, and relaxing in the hot springs.
Oddessa, LMT
Oddessa is excited to join the Backsmith team after her return back home to the PNW. Her work includes Swedish, Deep Tissue, Myofascial release, assisted movement and CranioSacral Therapy. She loves to learn and is continuing to develop her understanding of the embodied experience. In her spare time she enjoys walks with her rescue hound and practicing yoga.
Delaney, LMT
Delaney is a graduate of East West College of the Healing Arts with a deep passion for bodywork and holding space for healing. Her practice is grounded in presence, intuition, and informed technique. She offers a range of modalities including assisted stretching, trigger point therapy, relaxation, deep tissue, and Craniosacral – each session tailored to meet the unique needs of the individual. Delaney sees massage as a collaborative process and an honor to be part of each client’s healing journey.
Outside of the treatment room, you can find her outdoors – camping, backpacking, hiking or making music with friends.
Adriana, LMT
Adriana Sundari is a Licensed Massage Therapist and graduate of East West College of the Healing Arts. Her work focuses on supporting the body’s natural healing processes through therapeutic touch that calms the nervous system, releases tension, and restores functional balance. She is trained in cupping,Swedish massage, deep tissue, myofascial therapy, trigger point work, and Thai massage (table and mat), allowing her to address chronic tension patterns, pain, and movement restrictions in a way that complements chiropractic care.
Adriana approaches each session with intention and presence, tailoring her work to the individual needs of each patient. In addition to her clinical training, she has a background in yoga, breathwork, meditation, and dance, which informs her nuanced understanding of movement and body mechanics. She is currently enjoying learning Brazilian Zouk, a partnered dance style, at VMAC Dance Studio.
Yesenya, Front Desk
After previously working at Portland Backsmith Chiropractic, Yesenya is thrilled to be back with the team. She enjoys helping patients feel at ease, supporting the flow of the office, and contributing to the positive energy that makes the clinic special.
Outside of work, Yesenya loves creative projects, photography, journaling, and spending time outdoors—especially near the coast. She’s grateful to return to a familiar place and be part of a community focused on healing and whole-body wellness.
Karina, Office Manager
Karina was born and raised in Northern California and moved to the beautiful PNW in 2007. She played collegiate soccer at Warner Pacific College in Portland, where she graduated with a bachelors in psychology. Her love of sports inspired a career in the healthcare industry and her passion for people’s well-being inspired a career in patient care.
In her spare time Karina enjoys spending time with her wife and doodle and of course, catching a Portland Thorns or Timbers game.
Frequently Asked Questions
Wear comfortable clothing. For most sessions, you’ll be draped appropriately, and your therapist will guide you depending on the area being treated.
Our therapists work within your comfort level. Some techniques may feel intense, but they’ll always communicate and adjust to your needs.
Not at all. You can see our massage therapists as a standalone service or as part of a care plan—we’ll help guide you.
Some plans do cover massage. We also offer affordable time-of-service rates and packages for those paying out of pocket.
Service Areas
We proudly serve the following areas in Portland:
- NW Portland
- Slabtown
- The Pearl District
- Nob Hill
- Downtown Portland
- Goose Hollow
- All Surrounding Portland Communities