Registered Massage Therapy
Whether your need is to have a moment of relaxation, reduce muscle tension, or attain relief from acute or chronic pain, a therapeutic massage can help enhance your overall sense of emotional and physical well-being. Registered Massage Therapists work with a wide variety of patients, of all ages, in the treatment of both acute and chronic conditions. Massage Therapy can also be used as part of a preventative care program. This includes sports training, injury prevention, ongoing stress management, and more! Typically, a tense muscle over time may accumulate metabolic wastes that may be flushed out during a therapeutic massage.
Following an initial assessment, your therapist will work with you to develop an individual treatment plan to best suit your individual needs. This may also include the use of hydrotherapy (hot or cold applications), stretching, strengthening, and other exercises or therapies. The treatment plan can be changed at any time and you have no obligation to undergo any part of treatment. Every visit begins with a discussion of your needs and the proposed treatment for that day. Treatment begins after you have given your informed consent.
Consider making massage a part of your health maintenance plan.
What is a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT)?
Massage Therapy is a regulated health profession in Ontario, and as such, Massage Therapy should only be performed by a Registered Massage Therapist. All RMTs are required to be registered with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO).
For a therapist to be registered with the CMTO they must have completed competency based training at an educational institution recognized by the Government of Ontario and then successfully completed examinations by the CMTO in accordance with the Regulated Health Professions Act and the Massage Therapy Act. To maintain their registration, all RMTs are required to participate in a Quality Assurance Program, and complete Continuing Education.
Can anyone receive Massage Therapy?
Yes, Massage Therapy is appropriate for individuals of all ages, including children and the elderly however, there are some conditions for which massage therapy is not appropriate. A qualified therapist is trained to recognize these cases.
How often should I have Massage Therapy?
Some people feel better after one treatment, while others find massage most beneficial over a series of treatments. Through mutual discussion, your therapist can help you establish a program of care that fits your physical needs and lifestyle.
Does Massage Therapy Hurt?
As with many treatments affecting the soft tissue, there are times when treatment can cause some discomfort but it is not harmful, and typically diminishes. No techniques of this nature will be used without first discussing it with you, and obtaining your permission. A comfort scale will be established and the therapist will work within your tolerance level. You can stop or change the treatment any time. Your comfort and ability to relax is essential to an effective treatment.
Do I have to remove all my clothing for massage?
No. Your comfort is of the utmost to all Massage Therapists, whether that is in the context of the clothing you wear or the treatment that you receive. Massage Therapists can provide effective treatment whether you elect to remove any, some, or all of your clothing. All RMTs are trained using appropriate draping procedures to ensure that your privacy is completely respected at all times. Prior to treatment your therapist will describe the treatments to be provided and the areas that will be worked to ensure that you are comfortable with them. Your consent will be obtained before treatment commences and you have the right to stop or change a treatment at any time.
Will my Information be kept private?
As regulated health professionals, Massage Therapists are required to maintain the information you provide, both verbally and in written form, to be kept in the strictest of confidence, and in accordance to the standards set by the CMTO and by the Personal Health Information Protection Act. Information collected can only be released with your express written consent.
Who pays for Massage Therapy?
Most extended health benefit plans do cover massage therapy treatments when provided by a Registered Massage Therapist, however some do require a doctor from your medical physician. It is suggested that you call your insurance provider to verify the details of your plan, prior to your first visit. Most Therapists will have you pay for your treatment, and will provide you with a receipt that you will submit to the insurance adjustor for reimbursement.
