| MASSAGE THERAPY |
Massage Therapy is the hands-on treatment of the soft tissues of the body including muscles, connective tissues, tendons, ligaments, and joints. Massage therapy is an effective treatment approach that helps alleviate soft tissue discomfort that may arise from injury, muscular and joint overuse, repetitive strain, and chronic pain. Massage Therapy has firmly established its role as a clinically oriented health care treatment used to relieve a wide variety of soft tissue discomfort with excellent results.
In Ontario, practitioners (known as massage therapists, not masseuses) are required to have a minimum of 2200 hours of training, followed by rigorous provincial testing before a license to practice is granted. As well, massage therapists are required to update their knowledge on a regular basis to maintain their license to practice. Registered Massage Therapists (RMT's) are regulated by the same legislation as chiropractors, medical doctors, dentists, nurses, and other licensed health professionals under the Regulated Health Professions Act (RHPA)(1991). Massage Therapy is also a self-governing body. The College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO) governs the profession and is responsible for protecting the public, standards of practice, disciplinary issues, quality assurance and maintenance of competency.
HOW MASSAGE THERAPY CAN HELP YOU
Massage Therapy can be therapeutically beneficial for people of all ages. It is widely used for the treatment of many conditions including:
- Inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and tendonitis
- Headaches and migraines
- Muscle spasms
- Sprains and strains
- Sports, work, and motor vehicle injuries
- Repetitive strain injury
- Back and neck pain
- Circulatory and respiratory problems
- Post-injury and post-surgical rehabilitation
- Pregnancy discomfort
- Stress relief
- Wellness and prevention
Those who have experienced massage therapy often report great satisfaction with their treatment. Along with this satisfaction, people often report feelings of great relaxation and rejuvenation, pain relief, stress reduction, increased energy and vitality, and an ability to achieve a more restful sleep. Our centre also performs massage therapy for special populations and circumstances such as pregnancy and infant massage.
Massage Therapy can be used as a stand-alone therapy or can also be effectively incorporated with
standard chiropractic treatments,
Acupuncture, and
Rehabilitative Exercise and Physical Therapy.
Approximately 50% of all massage clients at our centre also receive a combination of these treatments with great results.
HOT STONE THERAPY
This new therapy is becoming widely known for its extensive therapeutic and relaxing benefits. It employs the use of smooth, heated basalt stones, which are placed on specific acupressure points on the body during the course of a massage treatment. RMT's at the New Hamburg Wellness Centre are certified to provide Hot Stone Therapy.
MASSAGE THERAPY QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
- Q: What should I expect on my first visit?
A: On your first visit, your Therapist will take a confidential health history, which will guide them in performing an assessment. This will help them understand your current physical condition, medical history, lifestyle and stress level. Once this is completed, the Therapist will prescribe a treatment plan which will be explained to you before treatment starts.
- Q: Will I have to undress?
A: The degree to which you undress is dependent on the treatment and your comfort level. Your Therapist will communicate your treatment plan to you and the areas of your body that will be treated. Your Therapist will briefly leave the room for you to prepare for treatment if required. Once the Therapist leaves the room, most people undrape down to their underpants and cover themselves with a sheet. Your privacy will be protected at all times. The Therapist is trained to drape towels or sheets discreetly over areas of the body not involved in the treatment.
- Q: Is massage therapy painful?
A: There may be some injuries or conditions that may be uncomfortable. During the course of treatment, there will be continual communication between the Therapist and client on whether the pressure is too deep or soft. The Therapist is well trained and experienced in modifying technique and pressure to ensure maximum patient comfort is attained. Most people actually find massage therapy to be very relaxing and therapeutic.
- Q: How long do massage treatments last?
A: Massage therapy treatments can last 30, 45, 60, or 90 minutes. The length of treatment depends on several factors including patient comfort, number of areas being treated, and the specificity of therapeutic goals. The Therapist will discuss with you what treatment time may be best for you.
- Q: Is massage therapy covered by insurance?
A: Yes. If you have Extended Health Care (EHC) insurance you may be eligible for all or part of your treatment to be reimbursed. In some instances, insurance plans may require a physician's referral prior to the start of treatments. Your employer, human resource representative, or union will be able to provide information as to the details of your coverage for massage therapy under your EHC plan. Massage Therapy may also be covered by your automobile insurance company in the event of a motor vehicle accident, and by Veterans Affairs Canada, in the case of war veterans.
CANCELLATIONS
We require 24 hours notice of appointment cancellation or a cancellation fee will be apply. Cancellation fees will also apply for missed appointments.
GIFT CERTIFICATES
Gift certificates make excellent gifts and are available for new and existing clients year-round.
NEW PATIENTS WELCOME!
Our centre always welcomes new patients. Same day appointments are usually made available for emergencies during office hours. Friday afternoon and Saturday treatments are available by appointment. If you know of anyone who could benefit from Massage Therapy, or any of our other services, please pass on our contact information.
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