Registered Massage Therapists (RMT)
In the province of British Columbia, a registered massage therapist (RMT) is a health professional regulated by CMTBC under BC’s Health Professions Act. Registered massage therapists in Vancouver, BC have completed post-secondary education including clinical applications of health sciences in treatments for massage therapy and have completed 2200 hours of instructions or class time in health sciences such as etiology, pathology, physiology, orthopedic testing and clinical work in various conditions and impairments. RMTs are expected to safely and effectively treat and assess clients with common conditions and impairments, creating a safe and therapeutic massage. RMTs provide hands-on treatment and assessment in accordance with the definition of “massage therapy” following the regulations set out by Massage Therapists Regulation. Also, RMTs must practice massage therapy within their scope of practice, following the Standards of Professional Conduct at all times. There are modalities and treatments that may be considered outside their scope of practice as massage therapists throughout the province. When you find a massage therapist who is registered you know that they have met the provincial certifications and requirements to practice as an RMT. The cost of a massage in is generally not covered by provincial health plans but may be covered by private health insurance companies. It is best to call your insurance company to find out what your benefits are before booking a massage therapy treatment. It is always best to inform your doctor if you are using alternative therapies combined with your medical treatments, to make sure that it is safe for you to receive massage therapy treatment. Your RMT may request a note from your doctor to perform a massage therapy treatment depending on your medical condition.
An RMT massage helps reduce pain, joint stiffness, swollen muscles, stress, and improves circulation. Massage Therapy helps to calm the mind and relax the nervous system. Massage helps to boost the immune system, increase blood and oxygen flow throughout the body and help to loosen up in general. You can let your therapist know what your desired pressure for the massage. The massage therapy treatment will begin on either your back or stomach and you will be asked to flip over halfway through the massage. You can ask your therapist to spend more time on areas that are of concern or tight such as your neck or shoulders. The therapist may use light, medium, or firm pressure, whichever is more relaxing and soothing for you!