Registered Massage Therapy

Massage is recommended for many conditions because the release and removal of tissue waste and tension is beneficial to any condition by assisting the body to normalize.

Swedish massage techniques developed from proven effectiveness and became the base from which many other therapies evolved. It is appropriate for all ages, from babies to the elderly, because techniques vary according to the individual, their needs, age and their preferences. It is usually most effective when given by a skilled therapist who was trained in knowledge of the body, how it functions and the effect of techniques when applied. Such practitioners have gained the ability to recognize and assist various conditions.

A Canadian ‘Registered Massage Therapist’ (RMT) has studied an intensive full-time course for 2 to 3 years, with education in anatomy, neurology, osteology (bones), microbiology, nutrition, rehabilitation techniques, assessments, pathology (disease), exercise and appropriate treatment for numerous medical conditions. After passing college exams for qualification, they apply to test for provincial examinations as part of their registration process.

Their training enables them to provide a variety of types of massage suitable for relaxation and stress prevention or tailored to meet the needs of those in chronic pain and acute injury. In Canada, it is the registered title and diploma that lets the public know the type of massage the therapist is qualified to provide.

Registered massage therapists work with all types of needs because the human body is mainly muscle, tendons, connective tissue and fatty layers which comprise the soft tissue they are trained to know. If your body is not responding to massage treatment, that will be recognized and a referral to a different healthcare specialist is usually provided.

A registered massage therapists' career may find them working in numerous settings from physiotherapy clinics to spas, chiropractic offices to sports clinics, medical offices to private home practice. They have all undergone the same training, examinations and qualifying procedures if they hold the title of Registered Massage Therapist (RMT). Being registered with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO) enables them to practice in Ontario with coverage under extended health care plans.

The wide range of conditions they work with may range from arthritis to fibromyalgia, tendinitis to bursitis, pregnancy discomfort, low back pain or headaches, Parkinson's and multiple sclerosis (MS). Whether addressing an injury to speed healing or chronic discomfort to provide relief, the body responds to knowledgeable soft tissue manipulation. And that's massage therapy. It's worth experiencing, especially if you're ready to begin a new, healthier lifestyle. Let massage therapy remind you how good life feels when your body and mind function from a natural, relaxed state.

Most extended health care plans reimburse massage therapy fees. Whether or not you need a doctor's note to activate coverage depends on your health care plan. OHIP does not cover massage therapy treatment.