A visit to the Via Medical Massage website reveals a clear theme. The words that stand out all point to serenity: tranquility, peace, relaxation, soothing, warmth, and ease.
That’s no accident. In the world of pain management and therapy, it’s clear Via Medical Massage aims to create supportive and holistic surroundings. By blending medical expertise with spa-like comfort, founder Debbie Dugan said, "The unique advantage we have is we can relieve pain in this very high-comfort environment."
Originally from California, Dugan put down roots in Nebraska. With more than 20 years of experience in medical massage, she has earned a range of credentials, starting as a licensed massage therapist, then obtaining a lymphedema therapist certification, and later returning to school to become a physical therapist assistant. Via Medical Massage was founded in 2019 when Dugan recognized the potential impact of combining her considerable skill sets.
Via Medical Massage offers more than traditional massage. They treat patients through life events, including cancer treatments, post-surgery (such as breast augmentation and reconstruction, c-sections, or orthopedic surgery), and help patients prepare for and recover from childbirth. They also treat swollen legs, mastitis, and abdominal swelling through manual lymphatic drainage. They also specialize in treating chronic pain through a combination of visceral and lymphatic massage as well as trigger point release therapy.
Via Medical Massage cares for clients at three locations in Elkhorn and Lincoln. Dugan oversees a staff of eight, all holding various credentials in their massage specialties. Her all-female team is near and dear to her heart, as is continuous training. "Everyone has a voracious appetite for learning. We're all trained as massage therapists first, and then we've added supplemental education. Anything I can provide them in terms of education, they love it."
The diversity of their services is astounding. Dugan and her staff strive to provide care for almost everyone. They firmly believe in the benefits of medical massage for all. To that end, Dugan works to make their services financially accessible. Referrals from doctors are not required, nor is private insurance. She accepts HSA and FSA and keeps services at a straightforward flat rate.
Transparency and trust are paramount at Via Medical Massage. "My top core value for everyone is trust. My staff must not only build an incredible rapport with someone when we meet them, but they must also trust us enough to help them when they're in a delicate situation. I really emphasize trust, soothing and comfort," Dugan stressed.
Building partnerships with other medical professionals in the community is also important. Dugan is drawn to using massage to complement other therapies and treatments, helping her clients achieve better results in recovery and beyond. Above all, the goal is clear: be a vital member of her clients' healthcare team to help them heal and thrive.
What's next for Via Medical Massage? Dugan said, "Having a massive impact on the massage industry. Making sure patients know this is a safe and effective option with highly skilled teams. Keeping my promise to the community to have highly skilled therapists motivates me. We want to be known as the best in Nebraska."
They’re well on their way.
If you’re seeking assistance with medical massage therapy, visit viamedmassage.com to get started.