Massage therapy is appropriate for individuals of all ages, including infants, children, and the elderly; however, there are some conditions for which massage therapy is not appropriate. A Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) is trained to recognize these cases and refer out to the appropriate professional.
The first time you visit our clinic, you will be asked to complete a confidential health history form to ensure massage is safe for your condition. We will review all the information you provide and discuss your areas of concern for this treatment.
Upon your consent, the therapist will perform a thorough examination that may include a postural assessment; range of motion testing; orthopaedic and/or neurological assessments. The therapist will explain the treatment plan and inform you of what areas will be touched, what clothing to remove, what position you will be lying in (i.e., on your back or on your belly), etc. Upon the client’s consent to the treatment plan, the therapist will leave the room and you will undress privately and get on the table covering up with the sheet. The therapist will knock before re-entering the treatment room.
Once the session begins the therapist will undrape only the area being treated.
After the session is completed, you will be instructed how to get off the table before the therapist leaves the room.
The most important thing for you to do is try and relax on the table and make yourself as comfortable as possible. If you like to talk feel free to do so, if you prefer not to that is ok as well. Your RMT may ask you questions in regards to pressure or tenderness during your massage and you are always welcome to ask questions regarding your treatment. Please let us know if you are at anytime uncomfortable with anything during your massage. (We promise you won’t hurt our feelings!)
Nope. Your comfort as a client is of the utmost importance to all Registered Massage Therapists, whether in the context of the clothing you wear or the treatment you receive. RMTs can provide important treatment whether you elect to remove any, some, or all of your clothing. All RMTs are trained in proper draping procedures to ensure that your privacy is completely respected at all times during treatment. Your comfort and ability to relax is key to an effective treatment.
Treatments can be claimed on any extended health care or group benefits plan that includes coverage for massage therapy performed by an RMT. Please check ahead of time if you need a referral from your MD (Some plans require a prescription for coverage). Following each massage treatment, a signed receipt will be provided that you can submit to your insurer or claim on your taxes.
Massage Therapy may be painful, depending on what your goals are. If we’re working together to relieve muscle pain or trying to change a postural condition, most likely it will be uncomfortable at times.
So yes, Massage Therapy can be physically uncomfortable.
More importantly, however, we will make sure your session is never stressful. Deep breathing and open communication with your therapist will help us to keep things at a tolerable level.