I started seeing James last summer when I returned to the gym after a long hiatus. Between isolation at home, a lack of exercise and stretching, and long hours sitting at a computer, my back and neck were a mess. I didn’t have a lot of experience with sports massage, but my personal trainer enthusiastically recommended James, and I decided to give it a shot.
James listened to me carefully when I explained why I was there, asked a lot of questions about my prior history of injuries and surgeries, and then got to work identifying trouble spots. Every visit he checks in with me to see how I’m feeling, slows me down a bit, and decides how he is going to approach our session. Each session is different, and he brings a variety of techniques to the table (hehe) He also recommends things I can do in between sessions to improve my health, including stretching exercises, tricks to disrupt my focus so I will move around more during the day, and even visiting a chiropractor that specializes in the Graston technique. He keeps tabs on the work my chiropractor is doing with me and incorporates that into my massages.
James is capable of being as gentle or intense as is needed and adjusts well to the situation and personal tolerance. There have been times when I was tempted to kick him on the face, but he definitely knows when I want to push through some discomfort, and when I need things to be a little more laid back. That makes it really easy to trust him, and I’ve never regretted the results either way.
The result is that my back is more flexible and mobile than it has been in over a decade. Thanks to my wellness team, including James, my trainer, and my chiropractor, I feel as comfortable and confident in my body as I did in my early thirties! My dogs had gotten accustomed to me being hampered by back pain, and they are still adjusting to a new reality in which I can keep up with them when they stage their cross country jail breaks.
In summary, I would definitely recommend James. Great service from...
Read moreAfter struggling for months with a debilitating infraspinatus injury that even physical therapy at Emory couldn’t resolve, I found my way to James Dustin—and I honestly don’t say this lightly: he changed my life.
From the very first session, James brought not only expert knowledge of muscular and fascial systems, but also an intuitive, compassionate presence that made me feel truly cared for. His work went beyond just massage—he helped me heal. He took the time to listen deeply to what was going on in my body, and tailored each session with precision, care, and an impressive understanding of biomechanics and trauma recovery.
But it’s not just his skill that makes James special—it’s his heart. In 2024, he generously organized and sold raffle tickets to raise funds for equipment to support Hurricane Helene survivors in Appalachia. I was lucky enough to win the raffle, but witnessing his willingness to help others was the real gift. His generosity and community spirit are just as strong as his hands.
James brings this rare balance of professionalism and warmth—he’s knowledgeable, playful, sincere, and makes you feel like you’re in the hands of someone who truly loves what they do. If you’re looking for someone who can meet you where you are, help you heal, and make you laugh along the way, look no further.
Endlessly grateful for his work. Highly, highly recommend.
– Cliff Trammell,...
Read moreThis was my initial visit to Mr. Dustin. James is a very experienced, professional massage therapist . He took the time to ask me questions about areas of my body that were of concern to me. After the initial questions, I went into the massage room, which was a relaxing, soothing space at a perfect temperature. Over the next 90 minutes James worked on me thoroughly and deftly identified all the problem areas ( some of which I hadn't realized I had ). He worked many areas deeply, yet it was not painful. By the end of the session my body felt more relaxed and "open." He noted the limited range of motion in my shoulders and showed me stretches I could do to improve that. James clearly understands what each client needs and tailors the session to their specific issues. Today, the day after the session, I feel better and less restricted than I have in a long time. I am very impressed and will be returning for scheduled therapy...
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