Strong Hands.
Precise work.
Remedial, deep tissue and sports massage in Albion, Brisbane. Rafael finds what's causing the pain and works it until you can move freely again.
- Health Fund RebatesYour invoice will have everything you need to claim
- Dry Needling IncludedAt no extra cost, whenever it helps
- Book any timeLive availability online, 30 to 120 minutes
Where does it hurt?
Pick an area to see how Rafael treats it. Every session starts with a short chat about what's going on, then the treatment is built around it.
Headaches
Tension headaches that start in the neck, jaw and upper shoulders.
Read moreNeck, shoulders and upper back
Stiff necks, desk posture, tight traps and shoulders that won't drop.
Read moreLower back pain
Aching or locked-up lower back from lifting, sitting or training.
Read moreSciatica and hip pain
Pain running from the glutes down the leg, and hips that won't let you sit comfortably.
Read moreSports massage and recovery
For running, swimming, golf, tennis, lifting and team sport: before an event, after one, or through a training block.
Read more
Treatments and prices
Every treatment is remedial: deep tissue, myofascial release and trigger point work, chosen for what your body needs that day. What remedial massage involves.
One area only: upper back, lower back, legs or feet. Good for a single problem spot.
Focused treatment for specific problem areas such as chronic pain, stiffness or an injury.
More time for several problem areas or long-standing pain. Rafael's pick
The most thorough option, for complex or multiple areas of concern.
Dry needling included, at no extra cost. Rafael uses it in any treatment where it will help. About dry needling
Session bundles
| Five 60-minute sessions | $595 |
| Ten 60-minute sessions | $1,155 |
| Fifteen 60-minute sessions | $1,555 |
Bundles are for one person and are not redeemable for cash.
Add to any treatment
| Dry needlingFine needles for stubborn trigger points | Included |
| Cupping10 minutes of suction cups to release stubborn tight spots | $25 |
| Hot stones, one areaHeat to relax muscles before deeper work | $25 |
| Kinesiology taping, one areaSupport for a sore or recovering area after you leave | $10 |
| Body brushFull-body dry brush before the massage | $10 |
Sunday appointments have a 10% surcharge and public holidays 15%. Changes and cancellations need at least 24 hours' notice.
Book online
Hi, I'm Rafael
I trained as a physical education teacher before moving into massage, so I work from how muscles move, not just where they hurt.
Most people come to me with a specific problem: a neck that won't turn, a back that locked up, pain down the leg that stops them sitting. I start by asking what's going on and checking how you move, then use deep tissue, myofascial release, trigger point work and dry needling on the areas that need it. I'll check the pressure with you as we go, and tell you what I found and what will help between sessions.
I train too. I hold a purple belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and a brown belt in karate, so I know first-hand what hard training does to the body. I see plenty of athletes, including members of the jiu-jitsu academy my studio is in.
- Diploma-qualified remedial therapistQ Academy, Brisbane
- Association memberMassage & Myotherapy Australia
- Massage therapist since 2019Remedial, deep tissue and sports massage
- Physical education teacherDiploma
Rated 5.0 on Google
Read every review on Google, or leave one after your visit.
After years of massages throughout Brisbane, Rafael is the best I have come across! Genuinely the strongest hands I have found, he knows exactly where to target.
I came in with really bad back pain and left feeling like a new person. He listened to what was going on, found all the tension points, and worked through them with the perfect pressure.
I am a physiotherapist and a client of Rafa myself. He will exceed all expectations if you like the traditional (best) deep, hands-on approach to massage.
Give someone a massage
Gift vouchers are bought online and sent straight to you or the person you're giving it to.
Before you book
Anything else? Text Rafael on 0426 104 676. He replies between clients.
What happens at the first appointment?
Rafael asks what's bothering you, how long it's been going on and what makes it worse, then checks how you move. The rest of the session is treatment focused on what he finds. You'll leave with an idea of what's causing the problem and what will help.
Will it hurt?
Deep work can feel intense in tight areas, but it shouldn't be more than you're comfortable with. Rafael checks the pressure with you throughout. Tell him at any point if you want it lighter or firmer.
What should I wear?
Your underwear stays on at all times, as Rafael follows the Massage & Myotherapy Australia code of practice. You'll be covered with towels throughout, with only the area being worked on uncovered. Wear something easy to move in, as Rafael may check how you move first.
Can I claim on my health fund?
Yes, if your extras cover includes remedial massage. After your session you'll get an invoice with all the details your fund needs, including Rafael's provider number. Claim through your fund's app or website. Check with your fund how much you'll get back.
Which length should I book?
Choose 30 minutes for one area, 60 minutes for one or two problem areas, 90 minutes if you have several areas or long-standing pain, and 120 minutes for a full, thorough treatment of complex or multiple problems. 90 minutes is the most popular choice for a first visit.
How do I find the studio?
The studio is at 51 Sandgate Rd, Albion. Go in through the entrance to Lemos Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy. Make yourself comfortable in the reception area; there are chairs where you can sit and relax until Rafael is ready for you.
Is there parking?
Yes. There's on-site parking for Lemos BJJ clients, with more spaces at the back of the building, and street parking nearby.
What's the cancellation policy?
Changes and cancellations need at least 24 hours' notice. Sunday appointments have a 10% surcharge and public holidays 15%.
Find us
- Address
- 51 Sandgate Rd, Albion QLD 4010
Entrance through Lemos Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy - Text
- 0426 104 676 (texts only, Rafael is usually with a client)
- Hours
- By appointment. See live availability when you book online.
- Follow
