FAQs
A: Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs) in Ontario, Canada follow the rules and regulations determined by the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO). This includes our scope, which states:
“The practice of massage therapy is the assessment of the soft tissue and joints of the body and the treatment and prevention of physical dysfunction and pain of the soft tissues and joints by manipulation to develop, maintain, rehabilitate or augment physical function, or relieve pain.” Please visit cmto.com for more information.
Massage therapy is the manipulation of the soft tissues of the body to gain a therapeutic response, perhaps with the aid of hydrotherapy (hot or cold), aromatherapy, remedial exercises and recommendations for future treatment. It has a therapeutic effect on the body and well-being by acting on the muscular, nervous, respiratory and circulatory systems. Sometimes, the lower digestive system can be engaged.
A: The practice of massage therapy is regulated under the Regulated Health Professions Act, and is therefore a regulated health profession.
A: Please bring any items you would normally need (i.e. medications, puffers, reading glasses, a snack etc.). In addition, summaries or findings of any diagnostic reports (MRI, X-Ray, Ultrasond, etc.) can be helpful. Also, flexible clothing, especially if you’ve booked with Ryan, because you will remain clothed throughout.
A: During your first visit, you will be asked about your Intake Forms. We will discuss your primary complaints along with any related history. Some attention to lifestyle and daily activities will provide information about your issue. Your treatment plan will be devised to ensure the safest and most effective course of action. Your massage will take place in a relaxing atmosphere, and any questions you have will be answered as accurately as possible so you are informed and educated before you give consent for treatment. Clients should always work with their RMT’s to understand what the issue is, and how treatments can help. You will also be given advice on how to care for your issue at home between treatments. Recommendations for your future treatments will also be discussed.
A: The health history intake is confidential. Sometimes, information such as medical conditions, medications, symptom history or other medical history details gives insight into which techniques, structures or intensity levels are appropriate. Your health and safety is first priority. Once all items are discussed, a treatment plan is developed, and you will be asked to give informed consent for treatment. Your treatment plan can change or be reassessed any time you wish.
A: Your comfort is most important and key to your progress. During treatments that require undraping, only the target area is undraped, and it is re-draped when your RMT moves to a new area. If you are concerned with your privacy, please voice your concern and adjustments/modifications will be made to make you feel secure and comfortable. Treatments with Ryan are always fully clothed to allow maximum movement and range without the risk of exposure.
A: True, some techniques can be painful. However, treatment will be most effective if pain does not exceed 6 or 7 out of 10. If you become uncomfortable, please speak up! You shouldn’t need to guard against your therapy. Don’t be afraid of embarrassment or being offensive to your RMT. You are the authority on your comfort level, and we love getting your feedback.
A: If you are not receiving the pressure that is right for you, please communicate! We don’t ever want you to be uncomfortable. Sometimes, what you feel and what a therapist feels aren’t in sync because you are the one who can feel pain and pressure during your treatment. It’s important for you to know that feedback is the very best tool an RMT has. The more feedback, the better. During your treatments, we welcome an open line of communication about pressure, techniques and comfort. This helps to ensure your comfort, as well as facilitate ongoing progress and good documentation for your file.
A: You have the right to discontinue treatment AT ANY TIME.
A: Some people, especially those who request deeper tissue work, may feel sore, tired or heavy after a massage treatment. Fortunately, these feelings should pass within one or two days, leaving you feeling more vibrant and energetic. Please remember to drink plenty of water after your treatments to assist with healing. If you have excessive pain following a massage therapy treatment, please let us know, so we can update your file. We may modify subsequent treatments to prevent the same. If needed, you might contact your doctor/ER.
A: It may! It’s very exciting- many extended health care plans cover Registered Massage Therapy. Plans vary. Most plans have a yearly maximum, with some plans covering the whole amount for each session, while others only pay a percentage. Before you book, contact your extended health care provider and ask if you are covered for Registered Massage Therapy, and what the details of your coverage plan are. Your employer and extended health care provider intend for you to use your benefits to stay healthy and maintain your ability. Regular massage can help alleviate pain and postural deformities due to work injury and/ or overuse, or issues that aren’t work-related that might affect your work performance. OHIP does not cover massage therapy. Unfortuneatly, we don’t offer direct billing at this time. Please speak to us if you have any concerns, as we may make exceptions in extenuating circumstances. *We are not responsible for denied claims*
A: Yes, please pay for your treatments on the same day by cash, cheque or transfer. A receipt containing all required information will be issued upon payment.
A: Yes! You will be issued an official receipt after each treatment. If you are not covered for registered massage therapy through extended health care, you may be able to apply your payment to your income tax submission under health care.
Please note: Receipts are not issued before a treatment is completed, and only the patient receiving the treatment will receive a receipt. If you have registered massage therapy coverage on your plan, you can submit your receipt to your insurance company for reimbursement.
A: A treatment plan will be discussed during your visit. Recommendations are made based on each situation and goals.
A: Clients on a regular massage schedule report fewer injuries, an increased sense of well-being, less pain, and faster healing. Ideally, most clients would benefit from weekly treatments. Understandably, this would be a significant commitment; however, the health benefits are astounding. Many people routinely schedule massages every four to six weeks for stress relief, circulation, maintenance, reassessment of chronic issues, etc. If you are suffering from a particular condition or pain, it is important to attend as often as your RMT recommends. You will be given recommendations within the context of a treatment plan.
