Frequently Asked Questions

• What is Massage Therapy?
• What does Massage Therapy treat?
• What should I expect for my first treatment?
• Why must I fill out a health history?
• What about confidentiality?
• What is an assessment?
• What should I do after a treatment?
• Does insurance cover my treatment?

What is Massage Therapy?

Massage therapy is a comprehensive intervention involving a range of techniques to manipulate the soft tissues and joints of the body. The purpose of massage therapy is to prevent, develop, maintain, rehabilitate or augment physical function or relieve pain.

(Massage Therapy Act, 1991)

What does massage therapy treat?

Massage can treat many issues. Here is a short list: 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; headaches; inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and bursitis; insomnia; kyphosis and scoliosis; multiple sclerosis; Parkinson's disease; muscle tension and spasm; palliative care; post-surgical rehabilitation; pregnancy and labour support; sports injuries; sprains and strains; stress and related conditions; stroke; tendonitis; and whiplash.

Once you have completed the form, you will retire to a private room where your therapist will review your history with you and ask about your expectations and goals for the treatment.

Once you have identified the areas you wish to be treated, the therapist will explain what articles of clothing would best be removed for treatment. If you are uncomfortable with any part of the treatment or draping, please let your therapist know so she or he can adjust the treatment to better suit your needs.

What should I expect for my first treatment?

The first time you walk in to the clinic, you will have to fill out a Health History form. This requires your personal contact information and an outline of your past and current health issues.

You have the right to stop the treatment at any time, for any reason. Often, the therapist will use a scale of 0 to 10 to quantify your need for tissue depth — 0 being very light and 10 being unbearable pressure. 5 is the number that best describes the pressure you desire. Be vocal about expressing your needs. If it is too deep, let your therapist know. If it is too shallow, ask for your therapist to adjust his or her depth to better treat you.

Why must I fill out a health history?

Annual filing of your Health History is legally mandatory under the standards of the College of Massage Therapists, and it provides an avenue for your therapist to explore any issues that might influence your treatment. Ultimately, it is for your safety that we need to be informed of your history. It allows your RMT to be informed and equipped to treat you safely and effectively.

What about confidentiality?

Your health history, assessment and treatment are entirely confidential and will not be shown to anyone without your prior written consent unless required by law.

What is an assessment?

Assessments (for example, checking the range of motion of your spine) allow us initially to identify what structures are causing you discomfort, and later to gauge your progress after consecutive treatments. This helps to provide you with an efficient and competent care.

What should I do after a treatment?

Your therapist will inform you if you have to be cautious about any activity you have planned later, or any other special considerations with your home care. In most cases, an Epsom salt bath and re-hydration with water is recommended.

Does insurance cover my treatment?

OHIP does not cover Massage Therapy, however, most private insurance companies do. Call your provider and ask how much your personal coverage amounts to.