Massage Therapy

How Can Massage Therapy Help 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: ​

• Inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and tendinitis

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, 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.

Is massage therapy a regulated health profession?

The practice of massage therapy is regulated under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 (RHPA) and is therefore a Regulated Health Profession. Only individuals who have completed the requisite training and have met the strict competency requirements of the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO) can call themselves a "Massage Therapist" or a "Registered Massage Therapist". ​

Do I have to remove all my clothing for massage therapy?

No. Your comfort as a client is of the utmost to all Registered Massage Therapists, whether that is in the context of the clothing you wear or the treatment you receive. Massage Therapists can provide important treatment whether you elect to remove any, some, or all of your clothing. All RMTs are trained in proper draping procedures to ensure that your privacy is completely respected at all times during treatment. Your comfort and ability to relax is paramount to effective treatment. Registered Massage Therapists will also describe the treatments to be provided to ensure that you are comfortable with them. Your consent is sought before treatment is provided. If you are uncomfortable, your RMT wants you to let them know immediately, whether that discomfort involves the treatment, draping or any pain you may experience. Be sure and discuss the most effective means of treatment with your Massage Therapist at Advanced Vitality.

Why do Massage Therapists charge HST?

Under the federal Excise Tax Act, massage therapy is a service to which GST was applied. While massage therapists are considered health care practitioners under Ontario Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991, massage therapy is not included in the definition of health services that are exempt from the application of the HST. The list of exemptions is controlled by the federal government and the federal Minister of Finance has made it clear that the current policies governing exemptions will remain in place. A health profession can be exempted if is it regulated in five provinces or territories or if it is paid for in the health plans of three provinces. Massage therapy does not meet either of these conditions.

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.

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.

How do I know I am using the services of a Registered Massage Therapist?

All Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs) 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. ​ More simply, all members of the Registered Massage Therapists' Association of Ontario must be registered and in good standing with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario. You may therefore look for this logo as your assurance that you are in the hands of a professional RMT.

How often should I have massage therapy?

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 which 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.

What happens on the first visit?

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.

What are the benefits of massage therapy?

Add a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) to your health care team to help relieve:

• Inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and tendinitis