Practice
Frequently Asked Questions:
- What is a Registered Massage Therapist?
- What is the difference between Massage Therapy and Physiotherapy?
- What conditions do you treat with massage therapy?
- Do I need a Doctor's referral?
- What about medical coverage?
- Does massage therapy hurt?
- Do I have to take off my clothes?
- How often should I go for massage?
- How is your massage practice different?
What is a Registered Massage Therapist?
A Registered Massage Therapist (R.M.T.) must have attended an accredited massage therapy school and needs to have passed examinations set by the Provincial Government. We must take post graduate courses as well.
What is the difference between
Massage Therapy
and Physiotherapy?
A Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) is licensed only for hands-on work and sees one patient at a time in a private room. Physiotherapists may use many modalities such as ultrasound, laser or TENS and will usually do some hands-on work as well, but do not have as much time with each patient as do Massage Therapists.
What conditions do you treat
with
massage therapy?
I see people for a variety of conditions such as headaches, stiff necks, sore shoulders, back pain, whiplash, stress and insomnia. Massage is beneficial for increasing circulation, enhancing mobility and flexibility, and improving body awareness. Therapeutic massage will decrease pain, tension and stress and can help with depression and anxiety. Often people come to me initially for a painful condition and then choose to come on a regular basis for maintenance as their "special time" to take care of themselves.
Do I need a Doctor's referral?
What about medical coverage?
No, you do not require a doctor's referral to see a massage therapist. Some Extended Medical Benefits plans may require a referral; check with your insurance provider for details about referral requirements and coverage. You pay the therapist up front and submit the receipt for reimbursement. Massage is no longer covered under the BC medical services plan (MSP) except for a small rebate available for those on Premium Assistance.
Does massage therapy hurt?
In my practice I do not want to hurt people, so I check with them about pain levels. I do not do deep tissue massage, but I am specific, so many of my clients find that I get the "knots" without producing pain! Some clients want deep and painful work and I'm happy to refer them to other therapists who might better meet their needs. You may feel some soreness after the first session, but this usually lasts only about a day. After a day most people feel better than they did before the massage.
Do I have to take off my clothes?
You only need to undress the areas of your body that require treatment. After removing whatever clothing is appropriate for your treatment (which you will do in private), you will lie covered between sheets for the duration of the massage. Only the area I am working on is uncovered. I recommend wearing comfortable clothing to/from the massage as well, if possible.
How often should I go for massage?
How often you visit a Registered Massage Therapist will depend on your individual health needs and goals. Some people go for two or three sessions and return when necessary. Other people like to have treatments more regularly, on a monthly basis for example. We can discuss this after your first session.
How is your massage practice different?
My practice is a little different from most because I combine massage and acupressure. Some people think that acupressure sounds like it would be unpleasant and painful. Nothing could be further from the truth! I hold points very gently and this energy work is subtle but effective. I always finish a session with some balancing acupressure points and will often incorporate more acupressure if it would be beneficial. I have many clients who request acupressure for the many benefits it produces.