FAQ

GENERAL QUESTIONS

Does my health care plan at work cover Massage Therapy?

Registered Therapists are recognized under provincial health legislation, and as a result, are covered by most extended healthcare plans.

Many health care plans offer full or partial massage therapy coverage. Depending on the benefits package, you may have up to $1000 per year of RMT coverage. You can also be covered under your spouse or common-law partner’s insurance policy.

Occasionally a physician’s referral may be required. Check with your Human Resource Department at work for extended health care benefits available to you.

Can anyone receive massage therapy?

Yes, massage therapy is appropriate for individuals of all ages, 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.

What is a Registered Massage Therapist?

Massage therapy is a regulated health profession in Ontario and as such, massage therapy 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, 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. All members of the Ontario Massage Therapist Association must be registered with the College and are therefore registered massage therapy practitioners.

Should I leave a tip for my RMT?

Tipping policy: Gratuity is greatly appreciated but your return visits to our clinic are the best tip, as well referrals to co-workers, friends and family members.

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.

Do you need a physician's referral?

To see a Registered Massage Therapist you do not need a doctor’s referral, however, some insurance companies do require one in order to be covered by your extended health care benefits.

What should I expect on my first visit?

On your first visit, you will be asked to complete a confidential health history form which will be reviewed in the privacy of the treatment room. In order to develop a safe and effective treatment plan, the initial process may involve some assessment, palpation and testing.

Your 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.

Your privacy will be respected at all times. The therapist will leave the room so that you may disrobe and cover yourself on the table. You may remove as little of your clothing as you are comfortable with. During the treatment, you will be draped so that only the part of your body being treated is uncovered.

Communication is a key element of an effective massage and ensures that your treatment goals are being met. You will have the opportunity to give feedback throughout the treatment to have the pressure adjusted to meet your needs.

For your first visit, it is recommended to select a treatment time of 45 to 60 minutes. This will provide adequate time to complete a thorough assessment of your health status and provide an effective treatment.

Do I have to remove all of my clothing?

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.

What forms of payment are accepted?

At RMT Wellness Clinic we accept Cash, VISA, Master Card, and Debit. A receipt will be issued to submit to your extended health care insurance plan.

If I am pregnant, can I receive massage therapy?

Definitely from conception to birth! Pregnancy affects your body in a multitude of ways. Below are just some of the ways massage can help you adjust to your new changes and feel great:

Reduce stress, promote relaxation, facilitate transitions through emotional support and physical nurturing;

Reduce edema and blood pressure, relieve varicose veins, and increase blood and lymph circulation;

Relieve stress on weight-bearing joints (ankles, low back, pelvis);

Recent medical journals have published positive results from massage therapy during pregnancy. The results tell it all:

Reduced anxiety and improved mood;
Better sleep;
Less back pain;

Reduced norepinephrine levels (stress hormones)

TREATMENT QUESTIONS

What is massage therapy?

Massage therapy benefits people of all ages. While it benefits the injured, the ill and the stressed, the strength of massage therapy in preventing illness and conditions before they develop cannot be overlooked. Massage therapy can be used in the treatment of both acute and chronic stages of conditions.

Conditions

The following is a list of conditions for which massage therapy, when provided by a Registered Massage Therapist, can prove beneficial:

Anxiety and depression
Asthma and Emphysema
Back, leg, and neck pain
Cancer
Carpal tunnel syndrome (repetitive strain)
Chronic Fatigue syndrome
Dislocations
Fibromyalgia
Fractures and Edema
Gastrointestinal disorders
Reducing or eliminating pain
Improving joint mobility
Improving circulation
Improving immune system functioning
Increasing lymphatic drainage
Reducing depression and anxiety
Reducing tension within muscles
Increasing body awareness

What is deep tissue massage?

Deep tissue massage is a massage technique that’s mainly used to treat musculoskeletal issues, such as strains and sports injuries. It involves applying sustained pressure using slow, deep strokes to target the inner layers of your muscles and connective tissues. This helps to break up scar tissue that forms following an injury and reduce tension in muscle and tissue.

It may also promote faster healing by increasing blood flow and reducing inflammation.

Read on to learn more about deep tissue massage, including how it stacks up against Swedish massage and what to expect during a session.

What are the benefits of deep tissue massage?

Deep tissue massage offers both physical and psychological benefits. Unlike other massage techniques that focus on relaxation, deep tissue massage helps to treat muscle pain and improve stiffness. But it can still help you unwind mentally, too.

How does it compare to Swedish massage?

Deep tissue massage and Swedish massage are two different types of massage therapy. Both use some of the same strokes, but they have different uses and vary greatly when it comes to the amount of pressure used.

Here are the key differences between deep tissue massage and Swedish massage:

Intended use. Deep tissue massage is primarily used to treat chronic pain and muscle and sports-related injuries. Swedish massage is mainly used to promote relaxation and reduce muscle tension caused by everyday activities, such as sitting at a computer.

Pressure. Swedish massage is a gentler form of massage that uses far less tension than deep tissue massage. Both types involve use of the palms and fingers to knead and manipulate your tissues, but the elbows and forearms may also be used to apply increased pressure during a deep tissue massage.

Area of focus. Deep tissue massage targets the inner layers of your muscles. It’s used to treat muscle and tendon injuries, pain, and stiffness in your major muscle groups and joints. Swedish massage targets the superficial layers of muscle and focuses on the parts of your body that tend to hold the most tension, such as your neck, shoulders, and back.

What is fascial stretch therapy?

Fascial stretch therapy improves the mobility of your nerves & the flexibility of your muscles and fascia by focusing on the fascial lines that connect through and wrap around muscle, nerves, organs, and just about everything else in your body.

Who is fascial stretch therapy for?

People of all ages can benefit from fascial stretch therapy, including any patient cleared by their physician for stretching and active movement, fitness enthusiasts, and athletes of all levels.

Who is fascial stretch therapy for?

People of all ages can benefit from fascial stretch therapy, including any patient cleared by their physician for stretching and active movement, fitness enthusiasts, and athletes of all levels.

Stretching fascial vs. muscle

Fascia surrounds each muscle and connects them to each other both superficially and deep. It also connects tendons, ligaments, and bone to form a body-wide, functional network. Fascia connects to all of your organs and systems, too. By integrating a global perspective on stretching these fascial connections, we can reap twice the benefits as static stretching isolated muscle groups.

FST is completely different than yoga, and Pilates. It is completely compatible with other methods of therapy and training.

Stretching fascial vs. muscle

FST is completely different than yoga, and Pilates. It is completely compatible with other methods of therapy and training.

is it science-based?

The first research into FST effects initiated in 1997 with founder Ann Frederick’s thesis. Current research on the effects of FST on chronic low back pain is being conducted with a team at the University of Arizona Medical School in Phoenix. FST is also based on the extensive science resources found at www.fasciaresearchsociety.org.

What can I expect from a typical FST session?

Upon your first treatment, your fascial stretch therapist will ask specific questions and assess the body based on any complaints, or questions you may have. Each session is catered to the client’s needs. All treatments are done on the table with two straps. The straps are there to hold the one leg in place, while the opposing one gets moved around. This assures a true stretch is occurring. For each stretch session, the client is expected to wear stretchy pants, or shorts, and a tank top or t-shirt. Short shorts are not recommended.

Mobility is often improved after the first treatment. The therapist will give you exercises to help maintain this after your first visit. More than one session is normally recommended. Each treatment plan varies with individual needs. Many report a decrease in stress, improved sleep, and significant decrease in pain in sometimes as little as three treatments.

Is it painful?

Fascial stretch therapy is NOT painful. It is a gentle modality meant to help the client to relax and stretch out. If there is any pain, or pinching, the client must tell the therapist.