Massage Therapy FAQ's
What Is Massage Therapy?
Who Is A Registered Massage Therapist?
How Do I Know If A Massage Therapist Is Registered?
Can Anyone Receive Massage Therapy?
How Can Massage Therapy Benefit Me?
Does Massage Therapy Hurt?
What Can You Expect On The First Appointment?
How Can Your Massage Be Covered?
How Many Treatments Do I Need?
Massage and Pregnancy...
Who Is A Registered Massage Therapist?
How Do I Know If A Massage Therapist Is Registered?
Can Anyone Receive Massage Therapy?
How Can Massage Therapy Benefit Me?
Does Massage Therapy Hurt?
What Can You Expect On The First Appointment?
How Can Your Massage Be Covered?
How Many Treatments Do I Need?
Massage and Pregnancy...
What Is Massage Therapy?
Massage Therapy is the manipulation of the soft tissues of the body including muscles, connective tissue, tendons, ligaments and joints. Massage therapy helps alleviate the soft tissue discomfort associated with everyday and occupational stresses, muscular over-use and many chronic pain conditions. If employed early enough after accidents involving trauma and injury, massage therapy can greatly reduce the development of painful muscular patterning.
~ Massage Therapy Act, 1991
Massage Therapy is the manipulation of the soft tissues of the body including muscles, connective tissue, tendons, ligaments and joints. Massage therapy helps alleviate the soft tissue discomfort associated with everyday and occupational stresses, muscular over-use and many chronic pain conditions. If employed early enough after accidents involving trauma and injury, massage therapy can greatly reduce the development of painful muscular patterning.
~ Massage Therapy Act, 1991
Who Is A Registered Massage Therapist?
Massage therapy is a regulated health profession in Ontario and should be performed by a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT or MT).
A Registered Massage Therapist is an individual who has:
~ Completed competency-based education at educational institutions recognized by the Government of Ontario;
~ Studied anatomy, physiology, pathology, physical assessment, neurology, treatments, ethics and other subjects;
~ Completed a minimum of 150 clinical hours;
~ Successfully completed examinations from and have been "registered" by the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (the
College) in accordance with the Regulated Health Professions Act and the Massage Therapy Act;
~ Maintained their registration by participating in continuing education and a Quality Assurance Program that assists them in the
maintenance of high professional standards and quality care of their clients.
~ Only members of the College are permitted to use the title, Massage Therapist or Registered Massage Therapist or the
designation of RMT or MT.
Massage therapy is a regulated health profession in Ontario and should be performed by a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT or MT).
A Registered Massage Therapist is an individual who has:
~ Completed competency-based education at educational institutions recognized by the Government of Ontario;
~ Studied anatomy, physiology, pathology, physical assessment, neurology, treatments, ethics and other subjects;
~ Completed a minimum of 150 clinical hours;
~ Successfully completed examinations from and have been "registered" by the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (the
College) in accordance with the Regulated Health Professions Act and the Massage Therapy Act;
~ Maintained their registration by participating in continuing education and a Quality Assurance Program that assists them in the
maintenance of high professional standards and quality care of their clients.
~ Only members of the College are permitted to use the title, Massage Therapist or Registered Massage Therapist or the
designation of RMT or MT.
How Do I Know If A Massage Therapist Is Registered?
All Registered Massage Therapists (RMT's) have photo ID cards, issued by the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario, showing the Therapist's registration number. All clients of massage therapy services have the right to view this ID card in order to be assured that you are visiting a Registered Massage Therapist.
If you are booking over the phone you can ask if they are registered and then you can ask to view the documentation when you arrive for the appointment. Registered Massage Therapists can also display this Logo below at their practice to signify that they are registered by the CMTO.
All Registered Massage Therapists (RMT's) have photo ID cards, issued by the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario, showing the Therapist's registration number. All clients of massage therapy services have the right to view this ID card in order to be assured that you are visiting a Registered Massage Therapist.
If you are booking over the phone you can ask if they are registered and then you can ask to view the documentation when you arrive for the appointment. Registered Massage Therapists can also display this Logo below at their practice to signify that they are registered by the CMTO.
Can Anyone Receive Massage Therapy?
Yes, massage therapy is appropriate for individuals of all ages, including infants, children, and the elderly; however, there are some conditions for which massage therapy is not appropriate. A qualified Massage Therapist (RMT or MT) is trained to recognize these cases. Many Massage Therapists treat a variety of diseases and disorders while other Massage Therapists concentrate on certain conditions (fibromyalgia) or groups of people such as athletes, performers, and women during pregnancy (including labour and delivery), infants and children. When booking your first consultation, be sure that the Massage Therapist is the right choice for you.
Yes, massage therapy is appropriate for individuals of all ages, including infants, children, and the elderly; however, there are some conditions for which massage therapy is not appropriate. A qualified Massage Therapist (RMT or MT) is trained to recognize these cases. Many Massage Therapists treat a variety of diseases and disorders while other Massage Therapists concentrate on certain conditions (fibromyalgia) or groups of people such as athletes, performers, and women during pregnancy (including labour and delivery), infants and children. When booking your first consultation, be sure that the Massage Therapist is the right choice for you.
How Can Massage Therapy Benefit Me?
Massage therapy can be beneficial to people of all ages and conditions and is widely used to help obtain relief from many specific problems, including:
~ Anxiety and depression
~ Asthma and Emphysema
~ Cancer
~ Carpal tunnel syndrome (repetitive strain)
~ Chronic Fatigue syndrome
~ Dislocations
~ Fibromyalgia
~ Fractures and edema
~ Gastrointestinal disorders
~ Headaches
~ Inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and bursitis
~ Insomnia
~ Kyphosis and Scoliosis
~ Multiple sclerosis
~ Parkinson’s disease
~ Muscle tension and spasm
~ Palliative care
~ Post-surgical rehabilitation
~ Pregnancy and Labour Support
~ Sports injuries
~ Strains and sprains
~ Stress and stress related conditions
~ Stroke
~ Tendonitis
~ Whiplash
Massage therapy can be beneficial to people of all ages and conditions and is widely used to help obtain relief from many specific problems, including:
~ Anxiety and depression
~ Asthma and Emphysema
~ Cancer
~ Carpal tunnel syndrome (repetitive strain)
~ Chronic Fatigue syndrome
~ Dislocations
~ Fibromyalgia
~ Fractures and edema
~ Gastrointestinal disorders
~ Headaches
~ Inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and bursitis
~ Insomnia
~ Kyphosis and Scoliosis
~ Multiple sclerosis
~ Parkinson’s disease
~ Muscle tension and spasm
~ Palliative care
~ Post-surgical rehabilitation
~ Pregnancy and Labour Support
~ Sports injuries
~ Strains and sprains
~ Stress and stress related conditions
~ Stroke
~ Tendonitis
~ Whiplash
Does Massage Therapy Hurt?
As with many treatments affecting the soft tissue, there are times when massage therapy can cause some light discomfort but it is not harmful. Discomfort usually diminishes and no technique of this nature is used without the therapist first discussing it with the client and obtaining your permission. A comfort scale will be established and the therapist will work to the client's tolerance level. The client can stop or change the treatment at any time and Massage therapists will modify their techniques to meet their client's needs.
As with many treatments affecting the soft tissue, there are times when massage therapy can cause some light discomfort but it is not harmful. Discomfort usually diminishes and no technique of this nature is used without the therapist first discussing it with the client and obtaining your permission. A comfort scale will be established and the therapist will work to the client's tolerance level. The client can stop or change the treatment at any time and Massage therapists will modify their techniques to meet their client's needs.
What Can You Expect On The First Appointment?
On the first visit you will complete a confidential health history as part of your assessment. This is important, as the Massage Therapist needs to know if you have any medical conditions or are taking any medications. The Massage Therapist will listen to your concerns; assess your individual needs as well as other factors that may be contributing to your injury (lifestyle, nutritional status, etc.). The Massage Therapist will then develop a treatment plan with you to ensure you receive appropriate treatment that will help you return, as much as possible, to your normal activities.
On the first visit you will complete a confidential health history as part of your assessment. This is important, as the Massage Therapist needs to know if you have any medical conditions or are taking any medications. The Massage Therapist will listen to your concerns; assess your individual needs as well as other factors that may be contributing to your injury (lifestyle, nutritional status, etc.). The Massage Therapist will then develop a treatment plan with you to ensure you receive appropriate treatment that will help you return, as much as possible, to your normal activities.
How Can Your Massage Be Covered?
Most progressive extended health insurance plans cover massage therapy treatments when provided by a Registered Massage Therapist. Most do not require a physician's order for treatments, although a few may still have this requirement. Most plans require that the covered individual pay for the treatment and submit the expense for reimbursement. Contact your employer for more information.
Massage Therapists will require payment upon the provision of services. Since most are operating as an independent practitioner. There are limited cases where Therapists are signed up with Insurance Companies and will bill them directly each month. Talk to your practitioner to see if this option affects you.
You may wish to consult with Revenue Canada or your financial planner to determine if claims for massage therapy under "Medical Expenses" on your income tax return will be permitted.
Most Massage Therapists are required to collect and remit the Harmonized Tax (HST) and must notify clients when this is the case.
Most progressive extended health insurance plans cover massage therapy treatments when provided by a Registered Massage Therapist. Most do not require a physician's order for treatments, although a few may still have this requirement. Most plans require that the covered individual pay for the treatment and submit the expense for reimbursement. Contact your employer for more information.
Massage Therapists will require payment upon the provision of services. Since most are operating as an independent practitioner. There are limited cases where Therapists are signed up with Insurance Companies and will bill them directly each month. Talk to your practitioner to see if this option affects you.
You may wish to consult with Revenue Canada or your financial planner to determine if claims for massage therapy under "Medical Expenses" on your income tax return will be permitted.
Most Massage Therapists are required to collect and remit the Harmonized Tax (HST) and must notify clients when this is the case.
How Many Treatments Do I Need?
Some people believe that one treatment is enough; however, massage therapy is most beneficial in acute conditions when used over a series of treatments and then followed up with maintenance or preventive treatments.
Through mutual discussion, your Massage Therapist can help you establish a program that fits your physical needs and lifestyle. Your Massage Therapist is most interested in your recovery and in the maintenance of your health. Any recommendation for further treatment is being made by a qualified health professional and is made with your utmost care in mind.
Some people believe that one treatment is enough; however, massage therapy is most beneficial in acute conditions when used over a series of treatments and then followed up with maintenance or preventive treatments.
Through mutual discussion, your Massage Therapist can help you establish a program that fits your physical needs and lifestyle. Your Massage Therapist is most interested in your recovery and in the maintenance of your health. Any recommendation for further treatment is being made by a qualified health professional and is made with your utmost care in mind.
Massage And Pregnancy...
So, you’re expecting!
It's an exciting and likely very demanding time for you. Did you know that there is a simple way to help to alleviate stress and labour pain, and improve your soon-to-be-born baby’s health while also reducing the risk of complications? The centuries-old practice of massage therapy can help to provide these benefits and many more to you and your unborn baby.
How will massage benefit you during your pregnancy, labour and birthing?
Studies support what more and more women are discovering about massage therapy during pregnancy – it has been shown to:
~ Improve maternal mood
~ Decrease depression and anxiety
~ Decrease pain
~ Decrease stress hormones in pregnant women (including those suffering from depression)
~ Decrease obstetrical complications, and
~ Improve neonatal health and development.
In addition, the overall benefit of improved mood to maternal and neonatal health has the potential to positively impact the health of individual mothers and children. There is also evidence that massage therapy through the labour and birthing process helps to:
~ Decrease pain in all three stages of labour (latent, active, and transition),
~ Reduce anxiety in the latent stage,
~ Reduce stress during labour, and
~ Increase the quality of your experience of childbirth.
These immediate effects of massage therapy may affect other longer-term effects such as decreased length of labour, shorter hospital stay, less touch sensitivity and fewer instances of postpartum depression.
You Newborn Benefits Too!
Studies conclude that preterm (premature) infants receiving massage gain more weight and leave the hospital sooner. Massage therapy may also improve sleep patterns and behaviour in infants.
Common Concerns about Pregnancy Massage...
You and your baby’s well-being come first. Massage Therapists are professionally trained to work with you to develop an effective and safe massage therapy treatment plan during your pregnancy that will complement the care you are receiving from your doctor and other healthcare providers. Specially designed massages tables, ergonomic cushions and supports are used to ensure your safety and comfort during your massage therapy treatment. Massage Therapists are also prepared to address the subtle needs of expectant mothers like yourself, including the potential need for frequent restroom breaks and the use of unscented massage oil so as to not aggravate a sensitive sense of smell. Good communication with your therapist will result in the most beneficial and rewarding pregnancy-massage therapy for you and your baby.
So, you’re expecting!
It's an exciting and likely very demanding time for you. Did you know that there is a simple way to help to alleviate stress and labour pain, and improve your soon-to-be-born baby’s health while also reducing the risk of complications? The centuries-old practice of massage therapy can help to provide these benefits and many more to you and your unborn baby.
How will massage benefit you during your pregnancy, labour and birthing?
Studies support what more and more women are discovering about massage therapy during pregnancy – it has been shown to:
~ Improve maternal mood
~ Decrease depression and anxiety
~ Decrease pain
~ Decrease stress hormones in pregnant women (including those suffering from depression)
~ Decrease obstetrical complications, and
~ Improve neonatal health and development.
In addition, the overall benefit of improved mood to maternal and neonatal health has the potential to positively impact the health of individual mothers and children. There is also evidence that massage therapy through the labour and birthing process helps to:
~ Decrease pain in all three stages of labour (latent, active, and transition),
~ Reduce anxiety in the latent stage,
~ Reduce stress during labour, and
~ Increase the quality of your experience of childbirth.
These immediate effects of massage therapy may affect other longer-term effects such as decreased length of labour, shorter hospital stay, less touch sensitivity and fewer instances of postpartum depression.
You Newborn Benefits Too!
Studies conclude that preterm (premature) infants receiving massage gain more weight and leave the hospital sooner. Massage therapy may also improve sleep patterns and behaviour in infants.
Common Concerns about Pregnancy Massage...
You and your baby’s well-being come first. Massage Therapists are professionally trained to work with you to develop an effective and safe massage therapy treatment plan during your pregnancy that will complement the care you are receiving from your doctor and other healthcare providers. Specially designed massages tables, ergonomic cushions and supports are used to ensure your safety and comfort during your massage therapy treatment. Massage Therapists are also prepared to address the subtle needs of expectant mothers like yourself, including the potential need for frequent restroom breaks and the use of unscented massage oil so as to not aggravate a sensitive sense of smell. Good communication with your therapist will result in the most beneficial and rewarding pregnancy-massage therapy for you and your baby.