I am grateful to have worked with so many great clients in my career. My goal is to improve lives by improving the Structure of those lives. As such, I have received hundreds of wonderful reviews. Since no one practitioner is perfect for every client's needs, I will gladly suggest other practitioners or modalities to those clients who need them. This is part of my dedicated and honest service to you. Learn how I may help you through these success stories. -- Jan
Testimonials
Jan is an exceptional practitioner with a gift for tissue and muscle manipulation. She has helped me immensely and supported my recovery from surgical complications. I would HIGHLY recommend her to anyone seeking deep tissue bodywork and a calming steady energy. -- R. March 2024
excellent results - my arms and shoulders not only felt better, my shoulders actually looked more like they used to look as the top bones did not stick up as much as before the massage. Looked more "normal". So glad I found you. -- Sept 2023
Still not sure how she did it, but Jan relieved chronic hip and low back pain I've dealt with through 7 years of training and racing middle and full distance triathlon, in just one session. I've sought help from multiple sources over the years to no avail, until now. I'm in disbelief at the results. -- EA, July 2023
Jan is amazing! If I could see her every day, I'm convinced I would be free of pain completely. She is highly proficient technically and also just a really nice person. -- WJ, May 2023
Wonderful experience
Jan was very welcoming and professional. It was my first time experiencing Myofascial release therapy and Jan took the time to explain what it was and the benefits of it. The experience was like no other I've ever had in a very positive way. I can see it helping me in various trouble areas of my body. Looking forward to my next visit. Thanks!! -- GM May 2021
Jan is Wonderful
At 71 (in body, not heart and mind) I suffer from arthritis and have had falls lately resulting in cervical spine surgery and most recently a torn rotator cuff. I have told my surgeon that Jan should be part of post-op rehab! My neck had been tense for a year and I immediately felt a wonderful release... it brought me to tears! Her method is unlike any massage I've had before but unbelievably effective. I will see her as soon as possible after my shoulder surgery. She is amazing!! -- MS December 2020
Myofascial Release
I had shoulder surgery and have been constantly stiff and in pain. I was skeptical but my PT recommended Jan, and I was happily proven wrong. I went in with crunching under my scapula that was very painful, loud, and severely limiting my range of motion. I left the same day with minor clicking when I Iowered my arm. I'll definately be seeing Jan more through this process. I feel like I can finally focus on regaining shoulder function, instead of just trying to manage pain. -- B.T. January 2020
Amazing pain relief
I was referred to Jan Shaw by a physical therapist who had tried everything she could do to help tendinopathy in my legs, with limited success. In 2 sessions with Jan, I had so much relief I was able to go on vacation and do lots of walking. She has also helped my chronic neck and back pain, pain in a finger, and will soon work on my knee. There is no pain during treatment, Jan is very gentle. She has helped me more than PT, trigger point shots and medication. I can't recommend her highly enough. -- JB December 2019
TMJ and TN relief
"For years I have been dealing with TMJ disorders and trigeminal neuralgia. After my first session with Jan, there was relief. Now 6 sessions later, I am free from all prescription medications for pain and neuralgia. Myofascial release is an interesting technique and one that Jan is adept at administering. Jan is a credit to the medical profession and someone that I recommend highly. Don't wait!" -- BC November 2017
Ten Years...
"TEN YEARS I suffered with pain in my right hand. Aching, burning, throbbing, numbness. I was nevr convinced it was carpal tunnel but went to physical therapy and had severely painful injections in the base of my palm. One day last spring I was in so much pain I called around to see if anyone could help me find some relief. Jan responded to me. She had 30 minutes at the end of her day. Thank God, and Jan. After 6 short sessions I have been pain free for months now."-- B.D. September 2017
Personal Training Testimonials
Training for fun and survival "After seeing Jan for training and massage for many years. I developed a serious infection which resulted in a 3 month hospitalization. The doctors believe my survival and recovery were in large part a result of the strength I had developed from my time with Jan. And I just thought I was having fun. Glad to be working with such a competent, experienced, and caring professional. Glad to be back!" — LA
Workouts work! "I have been taking weekly one-hour work-outs with Jan Shaw for more than a year. I was amazed when a few months ago I had the first normal bone scan in years. At 61, I could stop taking those "bone drugs" and feel much more in control of my health. The routine of going once a week to work with Jan has also been good for my self confidence. I appreciate the wonderful massages she gives, but the benefits of working out are more important for me. I appreciate her skill and care." — AM
I feel like I have found a home. "I was so excited when I learned of Jan's existence that I couldn't wait to get an appointment and see what it was all about. After my first consultation with Jan I knew that this was a decision that I would be grateful for for the rest of my life. Thank you for what you do! " — JR July 2012
" Jan Shaw, the personal trainer is phenomenal at working with "couch potatoes" like me who want to be more active, and people with just about any physical problems. She's wonderfully motivational without being at all like a drill sergeant. I always walk out of there feeling 100% better than when I walked in. I can't say enough good things about it!" — Beverley, Feb 03, 2010
“I so appreciate the help I have received. Jan has kept me from having to have surgery or, at least, shots for the pain from spinal stynosis. I am going and doing most everything I want.” — DH
Well worth the time and money. “A clean, quiet, professional office. Jan is a delightful professional who listens and engages many years of experience to achieve the results you are looking for. If you have a specific trouble area, especially challenging complaint, or can’t quite understand why your body won’t keep up with your game plan – Jan is the one to see. As an athlete herself, Jan listens with experience and sets a game plan that ensures success.” — Joan
Caring and Concerned “Jan is one of the most caring professionals I’ve ever met. She is deeply committed to helping her clients achieve their goals and is very invested in helping them recover and return to good health. Her personal concern and interest in her clients is commendable!” — JM May 2014
Therapeutic Massage Testimonials
Amazing
When I first came to Jan I was in a lot of pain. I've suffered from chronic pain for the last 6 yrs following an injury. I have got a lot of pain relief using the myofascial release technique. I really enjoy Jan. She is such a genuine and sincere person. I would recommend anyone to give her a try. I don't think you'd be dissappointed. -- BS, August 2018
Neuropathy
This (massage treatment) has helped me more than all the medicine I've taken for 15 years! —ER 2017
Shoulder Pain and Finger Numbness Relief You recently treated me for a sore shoulder that I mentioned having (alongside numb index finger). I had two myofascial release appts. with you... I came in for my 60 minute appt. right after a morning Sprint class, when I think my muscles were warmed up and it was a good time to work further on the painful area. All this to say that I'm feeling much better. I immediately noticed ~80% less pain in the shoulder after you worked on it. The rest of the pain went away after the next few days. The numb/tingling finger was still present, but as each week went by, I have noticed less numbness and no tingling. I can finally say in the last 2-3 days I can no longer feel the numbness in the finger. So everything took time, but I can certainly point to that day as the start of things getting better. I wanted to thank you very much... I will recommend you to anyone else I think can benefit from this therapy. I appreciate your skill. — NF May 2017
"The myofascial release is a very beneficial treatment. After just two 30-minute sessions, I was able to sleep an entire night without waking up from back pain. I would highly recommend it!" —Kelly
"Today was the first time in months I've been able to get out of bed without my knee hurting. Jan was able to produce immediate results during my session. I look forward to continued results." — Benjamin
Best therapist in the midlands "I have recommended jan shaw to many of my friends and colleagues. They have always thanked me and been completely satisfied" — Nancy D. January 2010
Myofascial Release “A wonderful non invasive, non intrusive treatment rendered by a knowledgeable; and well experienced massage therapist. The hour’s session was both relaxing and restorative. My chronic lower back pain receded to a minimum; and was still at that level the following day. Highly recommended. Thank you Jan (Shaw) for helping me feel better.” — Robert M.
A Miracle "I do not understand how this is possible but I have a neurological condition, BMS,that has been constant pain for over 10 years and Jan gave me relief when no one else could. She is a saint! There are not words strong enough to begin to thank her for this miracle. Having been to every doctor possible, it is amazing that Jan knows a lot more than they do. I can't wait for my next appointment." — LW August 2014
“I have had one session of the therapeutic massage pertaining to the pain in my thumb and wrist area following surgery for my thumb 3 months ago. Once I got past 2 months of occupational therapy, my thumb, wrist, were very stiff and numbness still present. This one treatment has lightly stretched, loosened, my tendons and ligaments and cause a flow of life from my arm to my hand. Today 2 days after the treatment I am still having improvement. I highly recommend this therapy. — N.Smith”
"I had my first massage ever with Jan. It was a MFR massage and concentrated on my sciatic issues. My pain is completely gone and has not returned since my massage. I look forward to more sessions!" —Caryn March 2017
A Client Story
Professional testing to ensure client safety
Jan Shaw specializes in creating exercise programs that are individualized to your personal needs. In my case, because of my age (82) she has developed a program that is based on enhancing my balance and strength and has gradually intensified it in areas that I can best handle.
Of particular note, on my first visit she was monitoring my vital signs as I walked on the treadmill and when she detected an erratic heart rate she immediately stopped me and insisted that I see my cardiologist as soon as possible. In addition, she followed up by forwarding the results of her observations directly to my cardiologist. As a result, my cardiologist noted the urgency of my condition and scheduled an emergency surgery to insert a pacemaker to regulate my irregular heartbeat. I am convinced that Jan’s concern and prompt follow up saved my life.
This genuine concern for her clients is truly remarkable, and during our exercise sessions I value the way she provides encouragement and direction in such a low key manner that makes each visit totally stress free. JH 2015
Best I have found “Jan is a massage therapist that can do so much more than just relax weary muscles. Jan is a thoughtful listener, experienced professional, and patient healer. My experience was that she could “fix” my muscle challenges and constant joint pain.” — Joan 2014
Runners Repairs “I am a distance runner in the Columbia area and periodically experience tightness in my calves. Jan’s slow release therapy has really helped me get back on the road. This method is painless and typically gets me back in three or four visits. Not like you get with most sports medicine massage therapists. I have recommended them to quite a few running friends and would recommend them to you as well.” — Alan H. August 2014
Fantastic! “I had my first massage ever with Jan. It was a MFR massage and concentrated on my sciatic issues. My pain is completely gone and has not returned since my massage. — Caryn L.
Great massage! "On the recommendation of my wife I went to see Jan at the Balance Institute for a massage. Having had a recent surgery, I was in need of a massage, yet somewhat hesitant due to my healing wounds. Jan did a great job, and was very attentive to my needs/limitations due to my condition. She seemed very knowledgeable about what she was doing as well. I was very impressed, and will be back soon. THANKS! " -schealth October 2013
GREAT treatment “Jan is an incredible healer and helper. During my time on her table my muscles unwound in ways I never imagined – her work showed me just how my twisted muscles could be released to make my walking, sitting and sleeping pain free. This is, quite honestly, a miracle cure and Jan is also a kind person.” — JW
Just what the body kneaded "I suffer from chronic migraines and see a range of specialists. Jan Shaw worked her magic with a myofascial release massage in a problem area and was able to relieve some tension that just didn't seem to want to let up for the specialists. I have and will always highly recommend her." —LB
One of a Kind/Myofascial Release “I had 3 ortho surgeries & went through PT before being referred to Jan. She met me @ my level, worked w/me to meet (exceed) my goals and tailored services weekly. She is truly dedicated & has a caring demeanor. I received relief, an education & had some great conversations! More so than how much better I felt after just a few visits, others noticed how quickly I improved under her care. I would recommend to anyone, she far exceeded my expectations. Getting my groove back!” —T. Moore June 2014
Results for runner "I run 3 or 4 days per week and was having trouble with my legs. I heard about The Balance Institute from runners in my group. I have only had two visits with Jan and it is amazing how much better I feel." — AC
Thank you, thank you! “Jan Shaw is helping me with muscle spasms in my neck. After the first session I had so much relief – I hadn’t been able to turn my head for 4 days and the pain was constant. She did a fantastic job. Really knows her stuff. She’ll be my go-to when I have an issue like this from now on. Highly recommend her.” — AW
A Client Story
Best Trainer I've Ever Had
"I intended to go to The Balance Institute temporarily for just a couple of months. I had multiple fractures to my ankle and my physical therapist suggested that I find a qualified trainer (graduate degree and 5+ yr of experience) who could help me after I completed PT. At the time I could do very limited walking with a cane and couldn’t drive. I belonged to a gym but wanted private one-on-one sessions not in a group setting. A former colleague recommended Jan Shaw and my insurance company listed her as a resource. I met with her and felt comfortable that she could come up with a program tailored to my needs and goals. I decided to work with her until I could walk well without a cane. That seemed like a pretty daunting task at the time. I was a bit cautious because my last trainer (with an exercise physiology degree, too) promised one-on-one sessions and a comprehensive program, but didn’t come through. But Jan seemed sincere and listened to me and she had years of Rehab experience. Jan Shaw has exceeded my expectations. Jan met with my physical therapist and my doctor and made sure that nothing she planned for me would cause problems down the line. I’ve used half dozen trainers over 20 years and no one has come close to Jan’s abilities as a trainer and skills working with people. She does not have the “one size fits all” program that so many trainers use and her goal was not to make me an athlete. I am a middle-aged woman and not athletic. A lot of trainers cater to younger and more able clients and roll their eyes when someone like me pops through the door.
It is clear when I arrive for a session that she has a carefully planned program for that session. A lot of trainers fake it as they go along, but she doesn’t. She has a full arsenal of exercises and no two sessions are ever the same. Hers are the most interesting workouts I’ve ever experienced. She pays attention to what I enjoy or want to accomplish. She pushes me without making me feel bad if it takes a while for me to master something. She is so positive that I go there and feel like I can do anything given the time. That said, if I’ve had a tough day or I don’t feel good and I tell her I really don’t want to do a particular exercise she comes up with an alternative. She never shames me for not wanting to do something. I can honestly say that I never dread going to my workouts like I have so often in the past. She’s compassionate and caring, but has whipped me into shape and made me a more thoughtful eater.
Eighteen months ago she started me on the treadmill at 1 mph. In under six months she had me in shape to take a long-planned hiking trip overseas. I have had couple of other unexpected physical setbacks along the way, but she adapted quickly to my limitations and we never missed a beat. Now I can jump rope, take 10-mile hikes and can run (which I didn’t do before I broke my leg!). It’s been an amazing journey with her and my family and I owe her much for helping me get my life back. I am long past my planned two months. If times get tight I’ll have to give up something else. I don’t even want to think about how much lower my quality of life would have been if I hadn’t found her." — Anne L, January 2010
"At 62 being diabetic ,having high blood pressure, being depressed and overweight I went to Jan and found someone who was very knowledgeable and extremely positive and helpful.
Having at one time been a coach myself, I was not sure I would find a trainer I was willing to work with but in my first meeting with Jan I felt understood, respected and comfortable. She was accepting of where I was and seemed to sincerely feel she could help me become healthier and more fit.
From the beginning Jan tested me, assessed my abilities, provided encouragement and support and gently but increasingly challenged me. In creating a program for me she has taken into consideration: me, my interests, my health and my abilities.
As a result, in the year I have trained at the Balance Institute, I have not only improved my physical fitness but have lowered my blood sugars, decreased my insulin, lowered my blood pressure, decreased my depression, improved my eating, and lost a significant amount of weight. I feel much better about my self and have increasingly become committed to taking better care of myself.
I am continuing to work with Jan and recommend the Balance Institute as a place to train under a highly qualified, committed professional who is willing and capable of designing and helping you to follow thru with a program tailored to your needs." — Lynne H. December 2009
Very satisfied with the results I am getting.
"I was trying to do yoga with an instructor and did not have the core strength to do the exercises. The instructor recommended that I go to The Balance Institute, and I have been going there ever since, for at least 2 years now.
I like the way that Jan tailors the exercises to what you need and what you can do without injuring yourself. I am 73 and have bad arthritis, so I cannot be doing a lot of things that are hard on the joints, such as running.
Jan evaluates you before you do any training and takes everything into consideration. She comes up with a plan and it works. I am very satisfied with the results I am getting." — Jackie D. December 2009
"I started training with Jan at the balance Institute 2 years ago and I have decreased my insulin, lowered my blood pressure, begun working out at least 5 days a week, walked in numerous 5K's, lost apx 50 pounds, and started training for a triathlon. Jan has been a great ally in my move towards better health..I started at 2.8 on the treadmill and am now up to running for a short time at 5.0. I feel better physically and emotionally and Jan's positive, gradual, challenging, encouraging, and safe approach has been a tremendous help. I have experienced some plateaus but Jan's patience and persistence has always gotten me back on track. My thanks to Jan and the other great staff" ---2008
"Great place with a fantastic staff. The Balance Institute keeps you motivated to lose weight, get in shape, and feel better. My husband and I initially started going there when he was looking for a trainer to get him in shape. I needed help following an injury I had, a broken ankle, for which I had already done as much physical therapy as I could.
We both started working with Jan, who was easygoing and helpful in suggesting things that could help. The staff at The Balance Institute is fantastic. You go in and feel as if you are part of the family. I also think that it is very comfortable for middle-aged people like us.
My husband and I worked with Jan for a year, maybe more. We were never sore no matter what we did, which was different from other exercising we had done in the past. I also have had the massages at The Balance Institute, which are wonderful.
I have highly recommended The Balance Institute to a lot of people. We definitely plan to continue working with them." — Cas W. November 2009
