massage therapy FAQs

What is Massage Therapy?

Massage therapy is the manipulation of soft tissues of the body including muscles, connective tissue, tendons, ligaments and joints. Massage therapy is a clinically-oriented healthcare option that helps alleviate the discomfort associated with every day occupational stresses, muscular over-use and many chronic pain conditions.

Massage therapy should only be provided by a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT). An RMT is a primary healthcare provider in Ontario and anyone may visit an RMT of their choice.

The services of an RMT are not covered under the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP); however, many extended health benefit plans will cover all or part of the services provided by an RMT. A referral or prescription is not required to visit an RMT, although some insurance companies may require this. 

 

What should I expect at my first appointment?

On the first visit you will complete a confidential health history as part of your assessment. Your massage therapist will assess your individual needs as well as other factors that may be contributing to your injury or condition. The RMT will develop a treatment plan with you to ensure you receive appropriate treatment. The treatment plan can be changed at any time and will be reassessed at an appropriate time. You have no obligation to undergo any part of a treatment. This involves setting realistic goals for treatment, discussing possible responses to treatment, and being informed of alternative care options.

 

What are the benefits of Massage Therapy?

Massage therapy treatments provided by a Registered Massage Therapist can offer significant benefits for a variety of conditions and for diverse client populations. Whether you need to have a moment of relaxation, reduce muscle tension or attain relief from chronic pain, massage therapy can enhance your overall well-being. Massage therapy can help alleviate musculoskeletal disorders associated with everyday stress, muscular overuse, physical manifestation of mental distress and many persistent pain syndromes.

Massage therapy can be an important part of your health maintenance plan by:

  • Reducing or eliminating pain

  • Improving joint mobility

  • Improving lymphatic drainage

  • Reducing muscular tension

 

What are some conditions Massage Therapy treats?

Massage therapy can treat both acute and chronic conditions. RMTs work with a wide variety of clients in the treatment of illness, injury, rehabilitation and disability.

Massage therapy can prove beneficial to many conditions, including but not limited to the following:

  • Anxiety and Depression

  • Arthritis

  • Asthma and Emphysema

  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

  • Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

  • Dislocations

  • Edema

  • Fibromyalgia

  • Headaches

  • Inflammatory Conditions

  • Insomnia

  • Lymphoedema

  • Multiple Sclerosis

  • Muscle Tension and Spasm

  • Plantar Fasciitis

  • Post-Surgical Rehabilitation

  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

  • Pregnancy and Labor Support

  • Sciatica

  • Scoliosis

  • Sports Injuries

  • Strains and Sprains

  • Stress and Stress-Related Conditions

  • Stroke

  • Tendinitis

  • Whiplash

Massage therapy can also be used as part of a preventative care program. This includes sports training, injury prevention, ongoing stress management and more!

 

What is your cancellation policy?

A minimum of 24 hours prior notice is required to cancel your appointment, or 50% of the appointment fee will be charged. Generally, insurance coverage does not cover missed appointments. To cancel your appointment, please call or follow the instructions in your appointment booking confirmation email to cancel online.