Massage therapy is the manipulation of soft tissues of the body including, muscles, connective tissues, tendons, ligaments and joints. Massage Therapy is a clinically-oriented healthcare option that helps alleviate the discomfort associated with everyday and occupational stresses, muscular over-use and many chronic pain conditions.
Stress and injury to soft tissue interferes with normal functioning. Such trauma can result in loss of soft tissue pliability, diminished flexibility, and pain. Addressing these problems therapeutically, can restore health and avoid the development of chronic conditions. If you’ve ever strained muscles from playing a sport, dealt with a stressful personal crisis, woken up with a stiff neck, or spent too long sitting at the computer, you know what it is like to have your daily life activities adversely affected.
Registered Massage Therapists work with both able bodied and permanently disabled people, supporting them in maintaining and regaining their quality of life. They assist patients/clients in the care and rehabilitation of soft tissue and joints. They also assist in the management and reduction of stress. By addressing injuries and stress in the early stages, their work can contribute to the prevention of chronic conditions. However when such conditions are not addressed immediately and over time become chronic, massage therapists work with the patient/clients focusing on rehabilitation.
WHAT IS A MASSAGE THERAPIST?
– A massage therapist is a Regulated Health Professional.
– Only members of the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario are permitted to use the title Registered Massage Therapist (RMT).
– Massage therapists have completed a 2-3 year diploma program from a recognized massage therapy school. Curriculum includes: anatomy, physiology, neurology, pathology, orthopaedic assessment…
– Upon graduation, 2 provincial licensing examinations must be successfully completed.
– Massage therapy is governed by the Regulated Healthcare – Professionals Act and Massage Therapy Act.
WHAT TO EXPECT ON YOUR FIRST VISIT:
For your first visit at our clinic, it is advised for you to arrive 5- 10 minutes early to fill out an accurate health history form. This form ensures that it is safe for you to receive a massage treatment, and helps the therapist determine a proper treatment plan. All information is confidential.
At your first visit your therapist will review your health history with you, asking pertinent questions regarding your condition. If required, your therapist will perform an assessment of the area of concern. Your therapist will also answer any questions you may have and give you important information regarding your treatment.
The appointment time includes any discussion you wish to have with the therapist and the time you need in order to undress & re-dress after the treatment is completed. It is reasonable to expect to receive hands-on treatment for the rest of the appointment time.
