Frequently Asked Massage Questions in Victoria BC

Massage therapy is a therapeutic practice involving the assessment and manipulation of soft tissues in the body, including muscles, connective tissues, tendons, ligament, fascia and skin, it is designed to enhance physical function, promote relaxation, aid in rehabilitation and improve overall well-being.

A Registered massage therapist can treat a wide range of conditions that include pathologies and conditions relating to Musculoskeletal origins, Circulatory and lymphatic conditions, neurological disorders, postural problems, stress and anxiety related symptoms and Rehabilitation from surgical and sport injuries. Commonly treated conditions and disorders but not limited to are Tendonitis, Arthritis Lower Back pain, Fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome, Carpal tunnel, Thoracic outlet syndrome, Tension headaches and migraines, scoliosis, anxiety Temporomandibular joint dysfunction, whiplash and myofascial pain syndrome

There are many different types of massage therapy, therefore allowing each Registered massage therapist to be unique in their own treatment styles. Some different types of massage therapy include swedish massage, deep tissue massage, sports and rehabilitation massage, trigger point therapy, myofascial release and craniosacral and many more.

RMT massage treatments range from 45 mins to 90mins. With a standard 60-minute massage, 1-3 minutes (of the 60 mins) are allocated to the interview and assessment, where your RMT will investigate your needs and goals with the intent to develop a treatment plan that will ensure you get the most positive experience out of your massage.

• Clear Communication from the RMT (Registered Massage Therapist) - Undressing for Your Treatment**: The RMT will explain how much clothing you need to remove and how to position yourself on the table. They will leave the room to allow you to undress to your comfort level and cover yourself with a sheet or towel.
• Treatment Plan for Session - The RMT will discuss the goals of the session, any specific areas of pain or tension, and any relevant health history. They may perform an assessment to better understand your needs.
• Gaining Consent - The RMT will explain the techniques they plan to use and ensure you understand and agree to the proposed treatment. They will obtain your informed consent before beginning.
• During the Treatment - The RMT will check in with you about pressure levels and your comfort throughout the session. You should feel free to communicate any discomfort or preferences at any time.
• When the Treatment is Over - The RMT will let you know when the session is complete and leave the room to allow you to dress. They will then discuss any observations and provide feedback on the treatment.
• Homecare Recommendations - The RMT may suggest stretches, exercises, or lifestyle modifications to help you maintain the benefits of the massage. They may also recommend hydration or applying heat/cold to specific areas if needed.
• Dosage of Treatment Frequency - Based on your condition and goals, the RMT might recommend a treatment frequency. This could range from weekly sessions to monthly maintenance massages, depending on your needs and progress.

Overall, effective communication and a comfortable, professional environment are key aspects of a successful massage therapy session.

Massage therapy is generally intended to be a relaxing and therapeutic experience. Here are some key points to consider:

• Intent of the Session: The primary goal of massage therapy is to relax the nervous system and address musculoskeletal complaints. Techniques used are designed to promote healing, relieve tension, and improve overall well-being.
• Possible Discomfort: Some techniques, particularly those applied with greater depth and pressure, may cause discomfort, especially in sensitive areas or where there is significant tension. This discomfort should not be extreme or intolerable.
• Healing, Not Harm: The intent of massage therapy is to facilitate healing, not to cause harm. Therapists are trained to avoid causing pain and to recognize when their techniques might be too intense for the patient.
• Communication is Key: It is crucial for patients to communicate openly with their therapist about any discomfort or pain during the session. This helps the therapist adjust their techniques to ensure the treatment remains beneficial and not harmful.
• Therapist's Training: Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs) are trained to recognize signs of pain and to adjust their methods accordingly. They rely on patient feedback to guide the intensity and techniques used during the session.

Overall, while some temporary discomfort can be expected, particularly in areas of significant tension, a massage should not be painful. Open communication between you and your therapist is essential to ensure a positive and therapeutic experience.

Whether or not you need to undress for a massage therapy session depends on the treatment style and your comfort level. Here's what you need to know:

• Treatment and Style: Different types of massage require different levels of undressing. For example, a full-body Swedish massage typically involves undressing to your underwear or being completely unclothed but covered by a sheet. Other styles, like Thai massage or certain sports massages, may not require undressing at all and can be done fully clothed.
• Patient's Comfort Level: You have the complete right to undress to the level you are comfortable with. This can range from remaining fully clothed to undressing completely (while always being appropriately draped). The therapist will work with whatever level of undressing you choose and adjust the treatment accordingly.
• Draping: Regardless of how much you undress, professional massage therapists will always use draping techniques to cover your body. Only the area being worked on will be exposed, ensuring your privacy and comfort.
• Clear Communication: The therapist will explain what is typical for the treatment you are receiving and discuss your preferences. Feel free to express any concerns or preferences you have regarding undressing.

In summary, while certain treatments may traditionally involve more undressing, your comfort and preferences are the most important factors. The therapist will accommodate your choices to ensure you feel secure and relaxed during the session.

Yes, Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) treatments are often covered by insurance. Here are some key points to consider:

• Insurance Coverage: Many insurance plans include coverage for treatments provided by RMTs. This coverage can vary widely depending on the insurance provider and the specific plan.
• Extent of Coverage: The amount covered, the number of sessions allowed per year, and any copayments or deductibles can differ. Some plans may cover the full cost of each session up to a certain limit, while others may cover only a portion.
• Verification: It is essential to verify the details of your coverage directly with your insurance company. Key aspects to check include: Maximum coverage amount per session and Annual maximum coverage.
• Employer Health Plans: If your insurance is provided through your employer, you can also check with your HR department for specific details about your benefits.

By confirming these details with your insurance provider, you can ensure you understand your benefits and avoid unexpected costs.

The frequency of Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) treatments varies depending on several factors:

• Patient's Goals: The frequency of treatments depends on what you aim to achieve. Goals can include pain relief, injury recovery, stress reduction, or general wellness.
• Objective: Specific objectives such as treating chronic pain, rehabilitating an injury, or managing a particular condition will influence how often you need to receive treatments.
• Response to Treatment: How your body responds to initial treatments will guide the RMT in adjusting the frequency. If you show significant improvement, sessions might be spaced out more.
• Treatment Plan: During the initial session, your therapist will assess your condition and discuss a tailored treatment plan. This plan will outline the recommended dosage and frequency of treatments.

Ultimately, your RMT will provide a personalised recommendation based on your specific needs and progress, adjusting the treatment plan as necessary.

To find a qualified massage therapist in British Columbia, follow these steps:

• Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) is a provincially regulated profession in BC. This means RMTs must meet specific education, training, and professional standards.
• Contact the Registered Massage Therapists' Association of British Columbia (RMTBC)**:
• The RMTBC is a reliable resource for finding qualified RMTs. You can visit their website or contact them directly to get a list of registered massage therapists in your area.
• Ask for Recommendations: Personal recommendations from friends, family, or healthcare providers can also be helpful in finding a trusted RMT.