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Guide to Massage Therapy
So you have heard of massage therapy – but you still have some questions. I hope this section will answer any questions you have. If it doesn’t please call Bruce Jackson at 613-907-1418 or e-mail us.
- What is Massage Therapy?
- What training does a Massage Therapist have?
- How do I know the ‘therapist’ is really a Massage Therapist?
- What happens when I visit a Massage Therapist?
- What do I wear to a treatment?
- Do I need to leave a gratuity?
- Does massage hurt?
- Do I need a referral from my doctor to see a Massage Therapist?
- How much does Massage Therapy cost?
- Is Massage Therapy covered by OHIP?
What is Massage Therapy?
Massage Therapy is a regulated healthcare profession in Ontario and is governed by the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO). Massage therapy is defined in the Massage Therapy Act as:
"The practice of massage therapy is the assessment of the soft tissue and joints of the body and the treatment and prevention of physical dysfunction and pain of the soft tissue and joints by manipulation to develop, maintain, rehabilitate or augment physical function, or relieve pain." (Massage Therapy Act 1991)
Massage Therapy can only be performed by a member of the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario.
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What training does a Massage Therapist have?
Each Massage Therapist in Ontario has, at minimum, 2200 hours of training. The training for massage therapy includes anatomy, physiology, massage techniques, biomechanics, disease pathology and remedial exercise.
After completing their training each potential massage therapist must demonstrate competency through both written and practical exams that are administered by the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario
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How do I know the ‘therapist’ is really a Registered Massage Therapist?
Each therapist will have either a wall certificate at their primary practice or will carry a identification card issued by the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO). You can also check the CMTO website or call the CMTO at 1-800-465-1933.
Verify Bruce’s registration at the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario.
Only members of the CMTO can use the titles: Massage Therapist or Registered Massage Therapist.
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What happens when I visit a Massage Therapist?
On your first visit you will complete a health history form and discuss it will your therapist. This ensures that your therapist understands why you have come for massage and understands your overall health.
Once your health history has been completed, an assessment will be conducted to determine how best to approach your treatment. These two steps help ensure that your sessions with us are both safe and effective.
Your massage therapist will propose a treatment plan. You have the choice of accepting the treatment plan, telling the therapist if you want parts of it changed or refusing the plan all together.
Keep in mind that with massage therapy you are in control. If you would like to stop the treatment or change it – it is your choice. You can even change your mind after a treatment has started. Your therapist will respect your decision.
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What should I wear to a treatment?
This depends on you and your level of comfort. You decide what you wear. During treatment you are covered by a sheet with the exception of the part of your body being treated at that time. After that area has been treated it is covered again. This practice maintains a boundary and preserves your control over the treatment. Even with the sheet as a boundary – you may still choose to wear pants, or a shirt. Many clients choose to wear only their underwear.
If your treatment is an Active Release session, then you will generally wear shorts and a tank top or sports bra. This provides a faster session while maintaining a boundary.
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Do I need to leave a gratuity?
While some massage therapists accept tips – we do not. At Momentum Massage Therapy, massage therapy is viewed as a medical therapy and do not feel that tips are appropriate. If you enjoyed the treatment and think it was effective then take couple of extra business cards and spread the word!
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Does massage hurt?
Massage should not hurt, however, there can be certain techniques and/or treatments that may be uncomfortable. Your therapist will discuss these techniques with you prior to the treatment. Together you will establish an understanding of your comfort level. Your therapist will respect that level.
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Do I need a referral from my doctor to see a Massage Therapist?
No. A massage therapist can assess you and determine if massage is an appropriate and safe treatment for you.
Certain extended health care plans (such as the Public Service Health Care plan) require that you have a doctor’s referral to access your benefits. Ask your employer if a referral is required under your plan.
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How much does Massage Therapy cost?
It depends on length of your treatment. Our fee schedule is posted in the Fees section of our website.
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Is Massage Therapy covered by OHIP?
No. It may be covered under your extended health care plan. Check with your employer for details.
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If this guide did not answer your questions please call Bruce Jackson at 613-907-1418 or e-mail.
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