You'll think the masseur's thumbs are made of cast iron as she works on your bedraggled thighs and calves and puts the spine back in your back.

Any stress or knotted muscles you came in with won't know what hit them.

It's not really a criminal assault, of course - it's actually "xtremely" soothing: 90 memorable minutes of intense attention using a blend of sweet almond-based and orange-essence oils.

These welcome resins re-energise the body, says spa supervisor Panlapa Niamngern, who brought 10-plus years of experience with her when she joined S Medical Spa when it opened in 2005.

Next, try to Oxygenation Facial, which involves marine and plant proteins and natural oxygen to replenish and nourish the skin.

S Medical Spa - which runs on the motto "rejuvenation through integrated health care" - was established by Dr Pakilai Thavisin, one of only three Thai doctors certified by the World Society of Anti-Ageing Medicine.

Spa treatments meet medical treatments, and innovative equipment and techniques are the norm in its programmes for anti-ageing, beauty care, weight management, detoxification and plain old relaxation.

Don't just take our word for it: Last year it was named Asia's best medical spa and one of the world's top 10 by Asia Spa magazine.

By Urban Escape

Daily Xpress

The S is for sensational

>>  What: S Medical Spa

>>  Where: Wireless Road, next to the Hilton Nai Lert Park Hotel

>> Must try: Xtremely Intense Massage, 90 minutes for Bt3,000; Men's Stress Management, 150 minutes for Bt4,700; Hydrotheray, 50 minutes for Bt3,500

>> Call (02) 253-1010 or visit www.SMedSpa.com.

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