Those seeking relief from physical and emotional pain may want to try the ancient art of Thai massage which is now being offered at the Posture and Pain Clinic in the Imperial Building on Church Street in Hamilton.

The clinic is owned and operated by Allan Crockwell, who started easing aches and pains for his clients over a year ago.

He is now joined by Tassanee Rickets who is certified in the ancient technique of Thai massage after studying at the Wat Po traditional medical school in Bangkok.

While Mr. Crockwell says others offer similar massages on the Island, Tassanee will be offering the only authentic Thai massage.

Tassanee hails from Ubonratchathanee in north east Thailand and studied the art before marrying a Bermudian.

While in Hamilton one day, Ms Ricketts walked by the sign for Mr. Crockwell's clinic and went in to see what was on offer.

The two conversed, realised how they could help each other, as well as those suffering with pain, and the rest is history.

The massage is usually performed on a floor or mat with the masseuse and client both dressed in loose-fitting clothing, usually shorts and a T-shirt or something similar.

Mr. Crockwell says of the technique: "My whole approach to treatment is to incorporate various different forms of treatment to help my clients reach their full potential as far as health."

He believes that no single form of treatment is a cure all, but that a combination of treatments will help people recover fully.

He says that a Thai massage is a technique that incorporates pressing, stretching, and twisting of the muscles to increase flexibility tone and circulation.

"It is also great for repetitive strain injury, which may be the result of workplace injuries," he says.

Ms Ricketts demonstrates some of the specific points on the arm that she massages to bring relief to sore joints and says a Thai massage goes beyond other types of massage to help people get a far greater stretch.

All can benefit from treatment and Mr. Crockwell says it is great in helping to relieve physical as well as emotional stress.

He also says it is great for sports people as it helps them achieve a greater level of fitness and reduces injuries by making muscles more pliable.

One of Ms Ricketts specialities is an extended 45 minute foot massage from the knee to the tip of the foot in which she uses a special wooden tool to stimulate pressure points: "Reflexology with a Thai twist," she says.

She also says that different points under the foot release blockages in different areas.

The Posture and Pain Clinic also offers more conventional western treatment such as physiotherapy as well as ultrasound and laser therapy.

Mr. Crockwell says they are a full rehabilitation facility with a traditional massage therapist and in future, they will be offering the services of a nutritionist and a second physiotherapist.

"People travel to Thailand to get a massage because of the benefits, but now they can get the same treatment in Bermuda," says Mr. Crockwell.