Professional, thorough, affordable, very experienced massage therapist with multiple modalities for all types of aches. He takes your temperature, screens you for symptoms, and takes extra steps to keep you safe. I feel very fortunate to have Nicola as a part of my overall “health team”.
Great experience and very thorough with determining what is best for your personal needs. Once in Nicola’s studio, you feel right at home discussing past injuries and your current state. I’ve also never had a massage therapist contact me the next day to see how I was feeling. If you’re lucky enough to set up an appointment with him, I highly recommend it!
5 months ago-I came to Nicola’s new Santa Barbara and in need of an athlete-focused deep tissue therapist who would work with my needs and high demands I put on my body – he answered my prayers! I quickly found that he is focused on the individual and works to keep his clients feeling good and able to do what they love. Nicola does not use a one size fits all approach – he asks me where I need the work and uses his experience to find areas of my body that I didn’t even know the needed treatment. Not only is he a great therapist, but also a kind and great guy to spend 60-90 min with. He is a therapist that quickly earned my trust but keeping my healthy through some pesky and troublesome injuries. Highly recommended!!
5 months ago-I discovered Nicola thanks to these Google Reviews, so figured I’d leave my own to help out others in need of his fantastic deep tissue work.
As a runner and cyclist, I’m always battling some nagging injury, but after Achilles surgery last year, I was in some serious pain. I’d tried seeing numerous massage therapists in the area, but Nicola was the only one who could intuitively find and treat my imbalances. He seems to not only have a sixth sense for finding knots and tight spots but knows the exact pressure and depth to help release these trouble spots.
Not only am I running and cycling again pain-free, but his 1.5-hour sessions have helped improve my performances since meeting Nicola. I’d recommend him to anyone, especially any hard-charging athletes out there; Nicola certainly knows his stuff!
The best deep tissue work I’ve had in Southern California hands down! I am a professional athlete and I have had many experiences where the masseuse was not able to apply enough pressure, that’s not the problem with Nikola at all. He was very knowledgeable about the different muscle groups and he also has tools that can truly maximize your massage experience. I highly recommend anybody in the Santa Barbara area and in need of the best bodywork you could possibly find to go to Nikola!
Thomas Hervey6 reviews · 1 photo
Very personable and professional. Great deep tissue massage. He’s understanding of your desired pressure level. Will be visiting again.
Best massage therapist in town. I recently moved to SB and Nicola is the third massage therapist I have seen. I am a chef that stands for long hours hunched over; I tweaked my back so bad one day I couldn’t even bend over. No one in town could get me an appointment, but I called Nicola and he understood my problem and made time to see me.
Nicola and I talked about my back issues and I mentioned the “frozen shoulder” symptoms I occasionally have after two shoulder dislocations. Nicola helped relax my shoulder and target muscles no other massage therapist has touched before. After we talked through different exercises I can do while finishing with a heat and ice treatment.
Before I came to Nicola another reviewer gave him the name of “Nicola the knot assassin” I have to say that couldn’t be more true. Highly recommended.
-I came to Nicola with severe tightness in both calves that had been in horrible shape for years. I was having a hard time even going on walks because I was so knotted up. In just 1 session Nicola was able to loosen up the muscles so effectively (it was a bit painful but necessary) I can now almost touch my toes! With his great advice on self-massage, ice, and using a roller, my calves are like they used to be 15 years ago, I feel great about it. Thank You, Nicola!!!!!
Tobin Jarrett PoppenbergLocal Guide · 15 reviews · 58 photos
-After a slew of disappointing massages from other therapists, I got a massage from Nicola on Monday and it was extraordinary. He’s truly a master. I recommend him if you’re someone who needs deep work but finds that most others don’t seem to get deep enough or have the strength or intuitiveness to massage you as you need. Plus, he is kind, welcoming, and easy-going. I felt totally comfortable with him, which was important, since being massaged is a vulnerable thing. Many thanks! I will be back whenever I visit Santa Barbara!
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- Xavior H.
- Santa Barbara, CA
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- Xavier H.
- Santa Barbara, CA
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anonymous
4/8/2011 |
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Nikola is the best there is, period. After a bad motorcycle accident, I had suffered for years with a numbness occasionally mixed with a pulled muscle feeling right beneath my right scapula. This had been the side that I landed on after flying (8′ up and 30′ out) into the air from a bad head-on collision with a stalled car. After too many so-so visits to massage places in town, and several visits to chiropractors, I had all but given up on fixing my problem. I was just about to settle with just having to live with the aches and pain until I met Nikola. He targeted my issue very well and worked deep into the muscle. After about 6 sessions, the pain was almost completely unnoticeable. Another 6 months or so of monthly sessions, no pain at all, and 100% blood flow, injury completely undetectable. Switch gears if you will, I run my own business, and like most business owners tend to carry a lot of stress in my shoulders. Nikola the “knot-assassin” knows exactly where to go, and what he needs to “clean-out”. And so here we are, I’ve been going to Nikola for over 3 years now, on a monthly to semi-monthly basis and I have to agree with Xavier below; each and every time, Nikola has repeated his policy, “If they’re at any time is too much pressure, you will let me know, right?” He looks you in the eye to make sure you are not just dozing off thinking about other things. Further, “If there is any pain or tingling sensation anywhere on your body, you will let me know?” Like Xavier mentions, he knows us, he knows our bodies, he knows what we can handle, and probably knows where we “build-up”, yet time and time again, he has reminded of his policy, even when we look at him like, “yeah ok, get on with it”. Nikola of Riktr Pro Deep Tissue is hands down the best massage therapist I’ve ever encountered. And this is from someone that comes from a family of a massage therapist.
I took a chance of seeing Nicola as I didn’t know much about him but I am really glad I did. I had a hamstring strain and wasn’t able to participate in my usual sports and fitness routine, plus I had a big surf trip coming up so I was desperate to get help. I described my issue, he did a little recon. and then went to the source of the problem and went at it with vigor. He needed to go deep and he did, no beating around the bush. I’ve had four 1.5 sessions and it is so much better. He described to me in detail a whole protocol of how I can help myself with certain simple bodywork tools, stretches, etc…There aren’t many masseurs who go the extra mile like that and it showed me that he really cares. His work has allowed me to go back to doing the things I love to do. He is a real healer.
I am a contractor with years of all things associated w/contracting and my hands have not been able to grip for several years. Along with other body-related issues. I’ve seen Nicola for about a year, and yesterday after a fabulous treatment I am able to close my hands tightly again, I’m thrilled! Along w/his great personality my mobility is greatly improving, he is truly great at his craft.
5/15/2011
My massage experience with Nicola (aka Nicola or Nick) was utterly out of this world! I really appreciated the time he spent before the massage to get down to what my real issues and pains were. The massage itself was incredible, I honestly have never had anything remotely close to this massage before in my life. I have a long list of back neck problems and he dealt with all of them beautifully. He was very understanding of my problem areas and really helped put me on the healing path. I was referred to Nicola by a friend and immediately called after my massage to thank them for bringing this massage genius into my life! Thanks Again, Nicola! I will be seeing you again very soon!
12/22/2010
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- Bradley C.
- Santa Barbara, CA
Nicola’s deep tissue massages are amazing! If you need someone to really dig deep and work out stubborn knots that are hard to get, this is the one for you. I had chronic back pain and headaches for years and tried numerous people with no success. After 4 sessions with Nicola, the headaches were almost gone.
The sessions were not for the faint-of-heart! It hurt to get those knots in the back, and muscles in the neck, to loosen up. And Nicola grinds on darn hard. But the bottom line is – it worked, and I’m feeling better. What I respect most about Nicola is that he is more than just a masseur. He is truly a student of the human skeletal and musculature systems, which helps him pinpoint the root of a problem. I have great respect for anyone who works that hard to achieve such excellence at their craft-
- Douglas A.
- Los Angeles, CA
10/14/2009
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- Thomas C.
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- Montecito, CA
- 5 ★★★★★ Ratings
I called Nicola (aka Nicola, Nick) after waking up to find that I could not move one morning! My upper back had completely locked, pinching a nerve, and I needed help fast. As an athlete, I rely on therapeutic massage to overcome injury and stay healthy and know that proper therapeutic massage is hard to come by. Nicola was excellent in every regard. He was professional, courteous, thoughtful, and had good energy. He arrived with everything he needed and took the time to understand what was wrong before he got to work. Please note that this review covers an intense, therapeutic session. I told Nicola not to hold back as I needed serious help to unlock my back, and he really worked hard. This is no fu-fu spa experience- Nicola bent, stretched, and dug his way through layers of frozen muscles and at times brought me close to tears. But the results were incredible- he really got things loosened up, and by the next day I was back to about 80% mobility and able to compete again. I STRONGLY recommend Nicola, but again caveat that this massage is not for the weak of heart. Nicola is a gifted healer, and you need to trust him and let him work his magic. I will certainly use him again (although I hope under less dire circumstance!). His results are great, he is fairly priced, and he is a pleasure to work with.
Julie S.
http://www.insiderpages.com/member/5357608839
07/02/09:
Goleta, Ca
Riktr Deep Tissue Massage is A+’
5 ★★★★★ Ratings
A friend of mine recommended Nicola. I’m an athlete and I need weekly massages. Nicola is the best MT I have ever been too. Don’t even bother with anybody else. His deep tissue techniques really helped my sore muscles. He can massage your muscles softly or get in deep and hit those trigger points, ouch. Anyway, I would highly recommend him if you are looking for someone with very strong hands and great therapeutic massage techniques. A+
Judy L.
Santa Barbara, Ca
The best massage!
This was a wonderful massage from start to finish! I have experienced many different types of massage, from Swedish to Cranial Sacral to Deep Tissue, but Nicola uses a blend of many styles, and he was able to really loosen up my painful areas effectively. The benefits of the massage lasted for several days. Nicola is the best! Highly recommended ~ two thumbs up!
- Pros: Intuitive bodyworker
- Cons: None
Ewy A.
Hi Nicola. Thank you Thank you. My shoulder did not hurt last night and I thought. Well, it will start in the morning. NO, I feel perfect and totally pain-free. You are a miracle. Rami is right. You are the best. Thanks again. See you soon. Ewy
Ron Z.
Santa Barbara, Ca.
My shoulder really felt strong the next day and I felt like I could start rebuilding muscle.
Forgot to tell you, after my operation (is that what you call your service?), the next day was the best my shoulder had felt in months.
I have to say you know your stuff.
Thx,
Ron
Santa Barbara, CA
Nicola is a master. he is so skilled at his craft. his intuition truly seems to guide him to stress points in the body. I did not realize how much I needed a massage, until the end of the session. the release of stress and muscle tension was truly significant. I cannot wait to continue on my new journey to health with Nicola’s assistance.
A++++ Get ready to become transformed by Nicola of Riktr Pro Massage
Donna F. 5 Star
I walked away from a new woman from a session of deep tissue massage with Nicola. He is amazing! His patience and concern over my needs were refreshing. The session started with reflexology which targeted a couple of problem areas he massaged with extra effort. I was extremely tight and full of knots and Nicola worked my muscles until they were back to normal. Nicola has very strong hands and as an athlete, he has the strength and ability to work out any stubborn muscles. I highly recommend Riktr Massage if you are searching for a professional, strong, and therapeutic massage. I give him an A+++++++ rating.
Riktr Deep Tissue Massage is THE BEST
josh g. 4 Stars
Nick was very professional and personable. ?He offered me something to drink and make sure I had what I needed to become comfortable in his workspace. The work I massage I received was very therapeutic. If you have knots or have very tight muscles, nick is definitely the guy to go see. He will most definitely be strong enough to apply the pressure needed. He also offers package deals if your int-rested in multiple sessions. witch is great if your wallets are a little tight. overall I recommend this deep tissue massage to athletes. Not only will it reduce the chance of injury but help with the recovery time of your muscles. Thanks, nick
Kirra G
My massage experience with Nicola was utterly out of this world! I really appreciated the time he spent before the massage to get down to what my real issues and pains were. The massage itself was incredible, I honestly have never had anything remotely close to this massage before in my life. I have a long list of back neck problems and he dealt with all of them beautifully. He was very understanding of my problem areas and really helped put me on the healing path. I was referred to Nicola by a friend and immediately called after my massage to thank them for bringing this massage genius into my life! Thanks Again, Nicola! I will be seeing you again very soon! Kirra G
Kristin
Santa Barbara, Ca.
My name is Kristin and I’m 26 years old and have had back problems for years. I called Nicola because my girlfriend recommended him to me. I’ve had a lot of massage over the years because of my back and neck problems. The massage therapists that I’ve seen in the past never really went deep enough to help my issues and so I have not been getting massage very much. Anyway, I’ve never experienced anything like Nicola’s trigger point deep tissue massage. He took the time to explain everything to me and told me that it would be VERY uncomfortable- boy was he right. I was sore for three days but after he did his magic on my low back and neck I felt so much better…better than I’ve felt in years. I’ve gone back to see him many times and he has many different styles of massage that can really relax me. I’ve sent my grandmother to him and she loves him. Nicola is also kind and is generous with his time. Nicola is a fantastic massage therapist and I would highly recommend him to anyone.
Bill
Ventura, Ca
This guy is the real deal. He is a healer. I have three grown daughters who know how I want to be massaged and how long I’ve been suffering. 10 years since 2000. I have taken literally pounds of medicines and I will not do that again. My pain management doctor told me, walk it off, Bill? that will be the last time she sees me professionally. I will return to Nicola. Time and time again I am certain. He is a find. He’s very professional, polite, intuitive and he will massage you. It is no wimpy massage either. You get exactly what he tells you. Expect it. He sits with you prior to the massage and goes over the areas in question and what are the feelings that are going on. My last visit was primarily for my leg and he stayed on it the entire time. He seems to understand what is hurting. He told me to expect a little pain and I felt fine, it did feel tender a few days afterward, but my leg is so much better and more functioning. I was a skeptic, Nicola made me believe in the power of massage.
Aug 1, 2010
A truly powerful deep tissue and healing experience. I found Nicola’s nice studio easily in the foothills in Santa Barbara. He greeted me outside when I drove up and had me fill out some paperwork. He took the time to find out what my needs were and what I was looking for in my massage. I told him that I had a lot of knots in my neck. He explained to me that Deep Tissue massage can be uncomfortable but that the benefits would be there for me. Boy was he right. He worked me and the upper body for 2 hours and boy was it on the edge of being very painful but it hurt so well. I was sore of about 2 days after he worked on me but my neck and shoulders felt so much better after months of problems. He also gave me a great face and head massage. Nicola is a gifted healer and I highly recommend him.
Joey E.
Denver, CO
Feb 16, 2010
I’m a businessman and called Nicola from the Santa Barbara Independent Ad I saw. He was very pleasant to talk to and booked me that afternoon. WOW – I’ve been all over the United States and have had many I thought “deep tissue” massages but Nicola’s massages are over the edge fantastic. I’m an athlete and I needed some deep work and Nicola delivered. He said that he had a lot more to give but he backed off just enough to fix my sore muscles. If you like really deep work -call Nicola – he is friendly and an amazing healer. Joey E. Denver, CO
Hi Nicola,
Thank you so much for the relaxing massages yesterday! My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed them and will definitely call you again next time we visit Santa Barbara.
We already drove back to Las Vegas today but really had a great time in SB. Thanks for recommending the Cold Spring Tavern. We did go there for lunch and enjoyed
all of the history surrounding the place.
Have a great upcoming week!
Elaine D. Las Vegas
These are some of the noteworthy athletes and celebrities Nicola has worked on. (They are listed in no particular order.)
Larmar Houston is 22 years old, 300 pounds, and has size 14 feet and is one of the nicest persons that I’ve have met. Larmar played for Texas and is now with the Oakland Raiders. What did Larmar say about his bodywork “That was the best massage that I’ve ever had, too bad you don’t live in Oakland.”
Bill Spooner February 23, 1957, and is currently an NBA referee. He has officiated over 1,000+ regular-season games and 50+ playoff games. Spooner served as president of the high school referee association in 1982, his friends call him “Spoonman” and he holds the distinction of having the largest forehead of any current NBA referee. What did “Spoonman,” say about his bodywork ” That was a great massage, thanks my legs really needed that!”
*Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting with a qualified healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition. The information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended as diagnosis, treatment, or prescription of any kind. The decision to use, or not to use, any information is the sole responsibility of the reader. These statements are not expressions of legal opinion relative to the scope of practice, medical diagnosis, or medical advice, nor do they represent an endorsement of any product, company, or specific massage therapy technique, modality, or approach. All trademarks, registered trademarks, brand names, registered brand names, logos, and company logos referenced in this post are the property of their owners.