Walking into Burke Williams for a spa day, I expected the usual—soft robes, cucumber water, and maybe a deep tissue massage to work out the knots from my latest Netflix binge. But this wasn’t your grandma’s spa experience. The place had leveled up, blending classic relaxation with medical-grade treatments that promised real, science-backed benefits. Think of it as a spa 2.0—where zen meets zing, and your therapist might also be checking your vitamin levels.
Medspas are popping up everywhere, straddling the line between wellness retreat and mini-clinic. They’re not just slapping on fancy mud masks anymore; they’re offering things like IV nutrient drips, laser facials, and even injectables—all under the supervision of licensed pros. But here’s the kicker: not all states regulate these spots the same way. In California, where I got my treatment, a nurse practitioner can administer certain therapies, but in other places, you might need an MD in the room. So yeah, do your homework before you let anyone near you with a needle.
The Treatment Breakdown: What Actually Happens
My session started like any spa visit—soft lighting, calming music, that faint eucalyptus scent in the air. But instead of heading straight to the massage table, I had a quick consult with a nurse practitioner. She walked me through the benefits of a B12 shot, which, for someone still recovering from a fender bender (thanks, L.A. traffic), sounded like liquid gold. Better sleep? More energy? Sign me up. The shot itself was quick—just a tiny pinch—and then it was off to the massage room, where the therapist worked out the tension that had been camped out in my shoulders since, oh, 2020.
Why B12? The Science Behind the Shot
Vitamin B12 isn’t just some trendy add-on; it’s a legit workhorse for your body. It keeps your nerves happy, helps build red blood cells, and plays a big role in energy production. If you’re low on it—which can happen if you’re stressed, eating a plant-based diet, or just getting older—you might feel like a zombie even after eight hours of sleep. The shot delivers a concentrated dose straight into your muscle, bypassing your digestive system (which can be sluggish at absorbing B12 from food or pills). For me, the effects weren’t instant, but by the next morning, I woke up feeling like I’d actually slept instead of just closing my eyes for a few hours.
The Massage Factor: More Than Just Feels Good
Pairing the B12 shot with a massage wasn’t just a clever upsell—it was a smart combo. Massage therapy doesn’t just melt away stress; it boosts circulation, which helps distribute nutrients (like that fresh dose of B12) throughout your body faster. Plus, if you’ve ever had a massage after an injury, you know it’s not just about relaxation. My therapist focused on my back and neck, areas that had been stiff since my accident, using a mix of deep tissue and myofascial release to loosen things up. By the end, I wasn’t just relaxed; I felt realigned.
The Big Question: Is It Worth It?
Here’s the thing: medspa treatments aren’t cheap. My B12 shot and massage combo cost more than a standard spa day, and if you’re adding things like IV therapy or laser treatments, the price tag climbs fast. But if you’re dealing with fatigue, recovery, or just want a more targeted approach to wellness, the investment might make sense. For me, the energy boost and better sleep were worth it—especially compared to the alternative (chugging cold brew and praying for the best). That said, if you’re just looking to unwind, a classic spa day still does the trick. But if you want results that last longer than your post-massage glow? A medspa might be your move.
Leaving Burke Williams, I felt like I’d hacked the system—a little bit spa, a little bit science, all wrapped up in one seriously rejuvenating experience. Whether you’re a skeptic or a wellness junkie, there’s no denying that medspas are changing the game. Just remember: no matter how fancy the treatment, always make sure the person administering it knows what they’re doing. Your body (and your B12 levels) will thank you.
