What is massage therapy?

Massage therapy is the manipulation of the soft tissues of the body, including muscles, connective tissue, tendons, ligaments and joints. Massage therapy helps alleviate the soft tissue discomfort associated with everyday and occupational stresses, muscular overuse and many chronic pain conditions. If employed early enough after accidents involving trauma and injury, Massage therapy can greatly reduce the development of painful muscular patterning.

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How can massage therapy help me?

Massage therapy can be beneficial to people of all ages and conditions and is widely used to help obtain relief from specific problems including:

Inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and tendonitis

Stress relief and associated conditions

Headaches and migraines

Muscle-related conditions such as spasms, strains and sprains

Back pain

Repetitive strain injury

Circulatory and respiratory problems

Pregnancy and labour discomfort

Post-injury and post-surgical rehabilitation

 

What is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema is a buildup of fluid (lymph) in the tissues of the body, which normally flows through the lymphatic system. If that system isn't working as it should, fluid can collect in affected areas and may become painful, heavy, restrict mobility, and impact local immune and nervous system function. Lymphedema is most commonly associated with cancer treatments such as the removal of lymph nodes and radiation, but is also caused by other conditions that impact the lymphatic system. 

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What is Lipedema? 

Lipedema is a chronic condition that forms a buildup of adipose tissue (fat) in the legs, arms, and lower trunk. It often causes pain, swelling, heaviness, loose skin, easy bruising, and the feeling of nodules under the skin. Lipedema most commonly affects women and is often resistant to nutritional intervention and exercise.

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What is CDT?

Combines Decongestive Therapy (CDT) is a systematic approach to Lymphedema and Lipedema management, which is achieved through:

• Manual Lymphatic Drainage massage 

• Compression wrapping 

• Exercise protocol

• Education on skin care, compression garments, self-management and flare-up prevention

CDT has been proven to be a safe and effective treatment option and is considered the gold standard of treatment for the management of Lymphedema and Lipedema.

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Is massage therapy a regulated health profession?

The practice of massage therapy is regulated under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 (RHPA) and is therefore a Regulated Health Profession. Only individuals who have completed the requisite training and have met the strict competency requirements of the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO) can call themselves a "Massage Therapist" or a "Registered Massage Therapist". When seeking Massage Therapy, look for an individual who uses one of those two titles and ask to see their registration with the CMTO. 

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How early can I arrive for my treatment?

Please arrive no sooner than 15 minutes before your treatment. We have a small sitting area, but our front door may be locked during treatments. 

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What will 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 the Massage Therapist needs to know if you have any medical conditions or are taking any medications. The massage therapist will listen to your concerns, assess your individual needs, as well as other factors that may be contributing to your injury or concern. The massage therapist will then develop a treatment plan with you to ensure you receive appropriate treatment to help you return, as much as possible, to your normal activity.

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Do I have to remove all of my clothes?

No. Your comfort level as a client is the most important to all registered massage therapists, whether that is in the context of the clothing you wear or the treatment you receive. Massage therapists can provide important treatment whether you elect to remove any, some or all of your clothing. All RMTs are trained in proper draping procedures to ensure that your privacy is completely respected at all times during treatment. Your comfort level and ability to relax are paramount to effective treatment.

Registered massage therapists will also describe the techniques to be provided to ensure that you are comfortable with them. Your consent is sought before treatment begins. If you are uncomfortable, your RMT wants you to let them know immediately, whether that discomfort involves the treatment, draping or any pain you may experience.

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Can I book a treatment at the same time as my friend/family member?

Yes! We have 3 treatment rooms and would be happy to help you find a time you can both come in. If you have issues booking multiple appointments at the same time, please email info@rmtstudio.com so we can assist you. ​

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Why do we charge the full treatment price if you miss your appointment?

We value the time of both our clients and our Massage Therapists. When you book a session, you reserve dedicated time with a therapist who prepares specifically for your treatment. Their income depends on clients attending the appointments they reserve.

We charge the full treatment fee when an appointment is missed without sufficient notice, if the appointment time cannot be filled.

Thank you for understanding and respecting the time and livelihood of our therapists.

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Will you remind me about my appointment?

In addition to your confirmation email, you will receive a reminder email 2 days before your appointment and an SMS notification. If you turn these settings off in your JaneApp profile, no reminders will be sent. 

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Is massage therapy covered under the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)?

No. Massage therapy treatments are not covered under OHIP, regardless of whether treatment has been requested by a physician. Most progressive extended health insurance plans cover massage therapy when provided by a registered massage therapist. Please consult your extended health benefit plan. 

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Why do massage therapists charge HST?

Under the Federal Excise Tax Act, massage therapy is a service to which GST was applied. While massage therapists are considered health care practitioners under the Ontario Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991, massage therapy is not included in the definition of health services that are exempt from the application of the HST. The list of exemptions is controlled by the federal government, and the federal minister of finance has made clear that the current policies governing exemptions will remain in place. A health profession can be exempted if it is regulated in five provinces or territories or if it is paid for in the health plans of three provinces. Massage therapy does not meet either of these conditions. 

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If you have any further questions, please feel free to email the studio at info@rmtstudio.com

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