MADISON – Eric Williams wants to help people feel better and live better as a result. He has opened Heal Therapy Studio at 16 Main St. in downtown Madison.

When Williams worked as a surgery assistant, nurses suggested that he consider massage therapy. One nurse with severe scoliosis said massage had helped her greatly.

He learned massage could help people with chronic pain and headaches and found a massage school primarily focused on teaching orthopedic/neuromuscular massage — not just Swedish massage.

“I wanted to be an actual therapist,” Williams said.

Williams completed 650 hours at Healing Arts School of Massage in Five Points (when it was open) to earn certification. “I received excellent training there. Now I recommend Madison School of Massage,” he said.

In addition, he received a degree in sleep disorders medicine and a certificate in surgical technology, along with many years of continuing education.

At Heal Therapy Studio, Williams offers deep tissue/therapeutic massage, including any combination of deep tissue, sports, neuromuscular/orthopedic and myofascial release. His massage techniques include LaStone Hot Stone, Swedish, Reflexology and Prenatal.

Williams knew he wanted to work in Madison, after enjoying downtown since he was a youngster. In 2000-2001, he worked part time at his massage studio downtown above J’s on Main. Then, Dana Burrows, owner of Studio 106, told him space was available at 16 Main St.

“Massage offers many benefits,” Williams said. “Benefits most people are familiar with are temporarily lowering blood pressure, reducing stress, relaxation of mind and body, promoting blood flow and sore/stiff muscle relief. However, some of us are trained to help with chronic pain, injuries, headaches and prenatal issues.”

Williams is having ‘a good day’ when he sees a client’s relaxed look, and aches are gone. “I really feel good when I see their body symmetry change and their hips and shoulders are even,” he said. “On returning, a client tells me their headaches are better, they’re sleeping better, or chronic pains are gone, I feel very blessed and fortunate to do this work.”

“I work on anyone from grandmas to NFL players. Most people come for a mix of therapy and relaxation. Some clients come for just a physiotherapy session,” Williams said. “I have a lot that I pull out of my toolbox. I’ll use most of it during a session. I do not perform the same routine every time on each client.”

During a session, Williams’ clients can expect both western and eastern approaches, like acupressure. “I’m not a healer; your body is. I’m just undoing roadblocks, so your body can heal itself. I’m also not afraid to send you to a doctor or another therapist if I believe I can’t help your issue.”

Heal Therapy Studio is open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., 7 days each week. Clients can call or text Williams. For services and prices, visit vagaro.com/healtherapystudio. He accepts walk-in appointments.

For appointments, call or text 615-418-9690 or visit vagaro.com/healtherapystudio.