Registered Massage Therapy

Hands on touch has been used to aid in healing since ancient times. Massage can be described as the practice of kneading or manipulating a person’s muscles and other soft-tissue in order to improve their wellbeing or health. In modern times it is considered a form of manual therapy that includes holding, moving, and applying pressure to the muscles, tendons, ligaments and fascia. The term ‘massage therapy’ includes a wide variety of techniques that vary according to the type of touch or pressure and the intensity of the treatment.

Massage Therapy, as it is practiced by a Registered Massage therapist, involves the assessment, treatment and prevention of physical dysfunction and pain of the soft tissue and joints of the body using touch. The goal of Massage Therapy is to help develop, maintain, rehabilitate, or augment physical function and relieve discomfort. Massage Therapy has been regulated in Ontario through the Regulated Health Practitioners Act since 1991, but has existed as a controlled profession since 1924. It is covered under most extended health care plans.

Everyone!

Through their extensive education, RMTs are trained to assess muscular and other soft tissue pain and dysfunction, and to apply a variety of massage techniques and joint mobilizations to provide relief. They may also make recommendations for self-management strategies (exercises/stretches) to assist with resolving painful conditions.

Whether you have a desire for relaxation, to reduce muscle tension, or obtain relief from new or chronic pain, Massage Therapy can help. Treatment with Massage Therapy can assist with musculoskeletal disorders associated with everyday stress, overuse, and any persistent pain syndromes.

Massage can provide immediate benefits by triggering a feeling of deep relaxation and calm. This effect is created by the release of endorphins – naturally occurring chemicals (neurotransmitters) in our bodies – that produce feelings of wellbeing and reduce pain.

Massage can also reduce levels of stress hormones, such as adrenalin and cortisol. This can have long term positive impacts on our bodily systems’ functions.

Some of the physical benefits of massage include:

• reduced muscle tension
• improved circulation
• stimulation of the lymphatic system
• reduction in stress hormones
• relaxation
• increased joint mobility and flexibility
• improved recovery from soft tissue injuries
• reduced anxiety and depression

• Your RMT will conduct an assessment to determine what might be causing your symptoms by asking about your health history, and testing the indicated movements/muscles/posture etc.
• They will propose a treatment plan and ensure you are comfortable with it.
• Skin on skin contact is best but if you are not comfortable with that, your RMT can provide treatment over clothes as well.
• Most treatments take place on a massage table in a private room, but there are options for seated massage as well.
• Privacy is always provided while you get on and off the table. If you require any assistance, your RMT will make themselves available.
• The lotions used during the massage are hypoallergenic and suitable for most people.
• It is always important to give your RMT feedback about their techniques during treatment so it can be adjusted to provide you optimal effects.
• If you have any other questions or concerns, just ask!