Registered Massage Therapy
Massage Therapy
Massage Therapy is a therapeutic exercise performed by professional massage therapists that involves the manipulation of muscles, ligaments and tendons to improve general well-being. Massage Therapy is widely used for rehabilitation from surgical procedures, pain relief from chronic pain, stress reduction, and overall wellness.
Whether you’re looking to recover from an injury or would like to better help stress and anxiety, opting for a massage from a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) is the solution for you.
What is RMT?
Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs) are massage therapists trained in human anatomy to: evaluate your health needs; provide an assessment of your specific soft tissue or musculoskeletal condition; predict the likelihood and/or timeline of your recovery; provide active (intense) or passive (gentle) hands on therapy; and through research, provide evidence-based patient education and remedial exercises.
Registered Massage Therapists (RMT’s) are health care professionals committed to restoring and maintaining optimal health and pain-free function of the body.
Why Choose Massage Therapy?
People use massage therapy treatments as a form of health care to promote relaxation and relieve pain. It can also relieve muscle tension and may improve blood flow, relieve pressure on nerves, and restore normal joint movement. Our regulated health professionals will put together your own personal rmt program to make sure you’re getting the best treatment and results for your issue.
Whether you’re part of a sports team and need treatment for a recurring injury, or you are looking for relief from any muscle-related pain, our massage therapists are here to create your personal rmt program to help get you recovered and back to better health.
Is RMT Safe?
When done properly, massage therapy is considered safe. But talk to your doctor before you get a massage if:
- You have open wounds, bruises, or areas of weak skin.
- You have a blood clot in a vein.
- You have a bleeding disorder, have low blood platelet counts, or take a medicine (called a blood thinner) that prevents blood clots.
Benefits of Registered Massage Therapy
RMT isn’t just a massage —registered massage therapy has long-lasting benefits for your general health care and well-being including:
Pain Relief Management
- Alleviate pain from conditions such as arthritis and back pain.
Improved Sleep
- Encourages deeper, more restorative sleep cycles.
Reduce Stress
- Lowers cortisol levels and promotes a sense of calm.
Muscle Relaxation
- Relieves tension in areas like the neck, shoulders, and back.
Mobility and Flexibility
- Improve range of motion by targeting muscle tension and joint stiffness.
Improved Circulation
- Help the body heal by improving blood flow for recovery.
Regulation in BC
In British Columbia, massage therapists are registered with the College of Massage Therapists of British Columbia (CMTBC) to provide massage therapy services. Most are also part of the Massage Therapists’ Association of British Columbia (MTABC).
Important
Always tell your doctor if you are using an alternative therapy or if you are thinking about combining an alternative therapy with your conventional medical treatment. It may not be safe to forgo your conventional medical treatment and rely only on an alternative therapy.
Choosing your therapist
Choosing a registered massage therapist who has received provincial certification and undergone clinical placement ensures that your massage therapist has the required level of training and follows practice guidelines. Keep in mind that massage therapy requires a time commitment and may be expensive. The cost of registered massage therapy is generally not covered by provincial health plans but may be covered by private health insurance.
Registered Massage Therapist FAQs
How Often Should I Get RMT?
- For general wellness or stress relief, monthly visits may suffice. For more intense pain relief and injury recovery, weekly or biweekly sessions might be required.
Is massage therapy safe during pregnancy?
- Yes, there are specialized prenatal massage services available that are safe and beneficial during all stages of pregnancy.
What Conditions Does RMT Treat?
- Registered massage therapists treat a range of conditions such as sciatica, headaches, posture imbalances, sports injuries and general muscle tension.
How Does RMT Differ From Other Massage Therapy?
- RMT focuses on the treatment of musculoskeletal conditions whereas general relaxation massages don't focus as much on treating pain.
Can Massage Therapy help athletic performance
- Yes, sports massage therapists can help prevent injury, improve flexibility and promote faster recovery for those undergoing intense physical activity.
Are RMTs regulated health professionals?
- Yes, the massage therapists at Bishop are registered therapists that are licensed and regulated.