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Business Details
31 Years
experience
Therapeutic Bodywork & Massage Services in St. Paul, MN
The Highland Backrub has been providing therapeutic bodywork services since 1995, specializing in fully-clothed, oil-free massage techniques that address pain relief and injury recovery. Our experienced practitioners offer diverse modalities including Shiatsu, Deep Tissue, and CranioSacral Therapy, focusing on the interconnectedness of body-mind-spirit. We prioritize convenience with same-day appointments and sessions ranging from 30-90 minutes, designed to fit modern lifestyles.

Our commitment to quality care is reflected in our locally-owned operation and emphasis on client education about bodywork modalities. We maintain a strong reputation for skilled practitioners who deliver results-oriented treatments through our St. Paul location.
Services
Therapeutic Bodywork Shiatsu Massage Deep Tissue Massage Prenatal Massage CranioSacral Therapy MyoFascial Release Thai Massage Reiki Therapy Sports Massage
Details
  • Year established: 1995
Highlights and features
  • We offer same-day therapeutic bodywork appointments with experienced licensed therapists
  • Our practitioners specialize in over 200 bodywork modalities including Shiatsu and Deep Tissue
  • Oil-free, fully-clothed sessions allow immediate return to daily activities
  • Locally owned and operating continuously since 1995
  • We provide targeted pain relief through focused, efficient treatment sessions
What people say
Best Massages in Minnesota Skilled practitioners Effective pain relief Friendly, relaxed staff Convenient same-day appointments
Services
Therapeutic Bodywork
Therapeutic Bodywork encompasses over 200 modalities addressing pain relief and wellness through non-invasive techniques. Our practitioners use fully-clothed, oil-free methods to target specific discomfort areas with pressure ranging from relaxation to deep tissue. This service benefits clients seeking immediate pain relief while maintaining professional attire, offering sessions from 30-90 minutes for busy schedules.
Shiatsu Massage
Shiatsu therapy applies thumb pressure to acupuncture points based on Traditional Chinese Medicine principles. This modality balances energy flow (Qi) to alleviate chronic pain, reduce stress, and improve circulation. Sessions focus on meridian pathways to address both physical discomfort and emotional well-being through grounding, balancing techniques combined with passive stretching.
Deep Tissue Massage
Deep Tissue/Sports Massage uses intense kneading and compression to release chronic muscle tension. This technique increases range of motion by breaking down adhesions in muscle fibers and connective tissue. Recommended for clients with persistent pain patterns or athletic injuries, requiring tolerance for therapeutic discomfort that precedes muscle release.
CranioSacral Therapy
CranioSacral Therapy employs light pressure to manipulate cerebrospinal fluid rhythms affecting the nervous system. This gentle approach addresses neurological conditions, migraines, and stress-related disorders by inducing still points that reset the craniosacral system. Sessions promote whole-body healing through subtle fascial releases and nervous system regulation.
Prenatal Massage
Prenatal Massage addresses pregnancy-related discomforts through specialized positioning and gentle techniques. Focusing on hip, back, and leg pain relief, this service improves circulation and sleep quality while reducing swelling. Therapists trained in prenatal care use side-lying positions and bolster support to ensure maternal comfort throughout all trimesters.
People
Jennifer Lewis
Owner
Jennifer Lewis has owned The Highland Backrub since 2021, combining personal experience with chronic pain management and professional training in massage therapy. A Highland resident and mother of two, she brings community-focused leadership while maintaining active involvement in yoga and martial arts.
Questions
What bodywork modalities do you offer?
We offer Shiatsu, Deep Tissue, CranioSacral Therapy, MyoFascial Release, Prenatal Massage, Thai Massage, Reiki, and over 200 other modalities through our experienced practitioners.
Do you require appointments or accept walk-ins?
We recommend booking online for guaranteed availability, but accommodate walk-ins when possible. Same-day appointments are almost always available during operating hours.
Can I receive massage therapy while pregnant?
Yes, we offer specialized prenatal massage with trained therapists using safe positioning techniques. Sessions address common pregnancy discomforts like back pain and swelling.
What should I wear for my session?
Wear comfortable clothing as all sessions are fully-clothed. Avoid restrictive garments to allow proper movement and pressure application during the treatment.
How long are your typical sessions?
Sessions range from 30-90 minutes based on your needs. Most clients schedule 45-60 minute sessions for focused treatment of specific problem areas.
Do you offer membership discounts?
Yes, we have membership programs providing savings on regular sessions. Members receive exclusive pricing while maintaining flexibility in scheduling and modality choices.
Reviews (4)
Susan Gantriis
May 28, 2022 Report
Great experience. Atmosphere is quiet and comfortable. I had a 30 minute shiatsu massage. Will do a longer one next time.
Nina Johnson
Apr 26, 2022 Report
I love this place! The ambiance is calm and relaxing and friendly. I like that it's clothes-on - I feel less vulnerable, and it makes the time I take out of my day shorter. They have a broad selection of quality therapists who work in a variety of types of body work. My one complaint is that, though online scheduling is convenient, there are some bugs, including when I want to schedule massages for myself and a friend for the same time. Overall I highly recommend this beautiful little locally- and woman-owned small business!
Jen Bulger
Oct 30, 2021 Report
Cory is a wonderful massage therapist. The space is small, but lovely and clean. I very much recommend
Cass Renelle
May 31, 2021 Report
Everyone in the shop wore maskes, everything was clean and sanitized between clients. Super nice, quiet relaxing atmosphere. Chris hit all the spots that were giving me problems. Could feel the increased bloodflow right away. Reasonable price and was able to schedule and go in on the same day. Definitely will come back again. Perfect little hole in the wall, and really nice backrubs.