Frequently asked questions

The studio is at 3426 20th St in San Francisco's Mission District (94110). There is free one-hour street parking right around the corner on South Van Ness. Text Ben when you arrive and he'll meet you at the door. The studio sits between the 16th St and 24th St Mission BART stations.

No. Pain Solutions doesn't bill insurance directly. Ben can give you a receipt for services (without medical codes) to submit for reimbursement, and many clients pay with an FSA or HSA. Read How I handle insurance and Myofascial release and insurance coverage for details.

If you mainly want hands-on relief for tight or painful areas, book a 60-minute massage. If you want to move better, get stronger, or stop a problem from coming back, start with the free 15-minute personal training consultation.

New personal training clients can book a free 15-minute consultation to talk through goals before the first session. For massage questions, text Ben at 415-518-2125.

It depends on where the problem is, how long you've had it, and often your age. You may feel better quickly, but most lasting results take at least 5–6 sessions combined with corrective exercise. Like a good physical therapist or chiropractor, this work is rarely one-and-done.

Of course. Many clients see Ben only for massage. If your goal is to overcome a pain issue, though, corrective exercise is usually part of the solution, because many conditions come down to motor control and coordination.

No. All sessions are booked ahead through the online booking system, and bookings within 12 hours of the appointment aren't accepted.

No. Deep tissue massage is about intent, not maximum pressure. Ben uses the depth each structure needs and checks in throughout, so you get your preferred level of pressure exactly where you need it. Read Can deep tissue massage make you worse?

Rates are set high enough that Ben doesn't rely on tips. Tips are graciously accepted, but you're equally welcome to treat the rate as flat and come in more often.

Often, yes. Check your benefits, as you may need a doctor's approval. See Using your FSA or HSA for massage therapy.

Training 2–3 times a week usually brings significant results. That can be a mix of sessions in the studio and the home program Ben writes for you.

Plan on $180–$300 for sandbags, kettlebells, TRX and more. Ben fits you for the right equipment and can supply it at a wholesale rate.

When exercise makes things worse, it's usually because the exercises were poorly chosen or someone pushed intensity over quality. Ben starts by finding your movement weaknesses and only progresses you as fast as your body allows.

Yes. Ben has worked with clients across nearly every musculoskeletal complaint, including knee, back, shoulder, hip and ankle pain.