Massage Therapy

Common Questions:

How often should I have massage therapy?

Some people believe that one treatment is enough; however, massage therapy is most beneficial in acute conditions when used over a series of treatments and then followed up with maintenance or preventive treatments.

Through mutual discussion, your Massage Therapist can help you establish a program which fits your physical needs and lifestyle. Your Massage Therapist is most interested in your recovery and in the maintenance of your health. Any recommendation for further treatment is made with your utmost care in mind.

What happen on the first visit?

On the first visit you will complete a confidential health history as part of your assessment. This is important as your Massage Therapist needs to know if you have any medical conditions or are taking any medications. Pamela Marissink, RMT will then listen to your concerns, assess your individual needs as well as other factors that may be contributing to your injury. She will develop a treatment plan with you to ensure you receive appropriate treatment that will help you return, as much as possible, to your normal activities.

Health Benefit Coverage:

Massage Therapy is covered by most health benefit plans if performed by a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT). Most do not require a physician's order for treatments, although a few may still have this requirement. Most plans require that the covered individual pay for the treatment and submit the expense for reimbursement. Contact your employer for more information.

Fees (including GST):

½ hour:

$40

45 minutes: $55

1 hour:

$65

On-site ½ hour: $55

On-site 1 hour: $85

Pregnancy & Labour Massage:

How massage will benefit you during your pregnancy, labour and birthing:

improve maternal mood

decrease depression and anxiety

decrease pain

decrease stress hormones in prenant women (including those suffering from

depression)

decrease obstetrical complications, and

improve neonatal health & development

Massage Therapy through the labour and birthing process helps to:

decrease pain in all three stages of labour (latent, active, and transition),

reduce anxiety in the latent stage,

reduce stress during labour, and

increase the quality of your experience of childbirth.

These immediate effects of massage therapy may affect other longer-term effects such as decreased length of labour, shorter hospital stay, less touch sensitivity and fewer instances of postpartum depression.

Common Concerns about Pregnancy Massage:

You and your baby’s well-being comes first. Massage Therapists are professionally trained to work with you to develop an effective and safe massage therapy treatment plan during your pregnancy that will complement the care you are receiving from your doctor and other healthcare providers. Specially-designed massages tables, ergonomic cushions and supports are used to ensure your safety and comfort during your massage therapy treatment. Massage Therapists are also prepared to address the subtle needs of expectant mothers like yourself, including the potential need for frequent restroom breaks and the use of unscented massage oil so as to not aggravate a sensitive sense of smell. Good communication with your therapist will result in the most beneficial and rewarding pregnancy-massage therapy for you and your baby.

What is a Registered Massage Therapist?

A Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) is highly trained in both relaxational and therapeutic massage therapy. Massage therapy is a regulated health profession in Ontario and as such, massage therapy should be performed by a Registered Massage Therapist.

Registered Massage Therapy is an effective treatment option for: