Registered massage therapy, a regulated health profession in Ontario, is generally taught in the method of Swedish massage. Swedish massage technique involves long, smooth strokes, kneading, and other movements intent on causing relaxation and smoothing of the muscles. This is accomplished by improving circulation to the muscles via the massage, thereby improving oxygen and nutrient supply to the tissues. While registered massage therapy helps treat injuries, illness and stress, it is also excellent for helping prevent illness and conditions before they develop. 

 

Some reasons people seek the help of massage therapists include:

-          back, arm, leg and neck pain

-          carpal tunnel syndrome

-          athletic injuries

-          joint pain

-          arthritis

-          tendonitis

-          stress

-          depression

-          headaches

-          post-surgical rehabilitation

-          pregnancy support

-          fibromyalgia

-          insomnia

-          constipation

-          multiple sclerosis

-          asthma and emphysema

-          stroke

-          Parkinson's disease

-          Cancer

-          chronic fatigue syndrome

 

What happens during your massage?

 

Your massage will begin with a brief consultation that includes a discussion of your symptoms, medical history and lifestyle. Before leaving the room, the massage therapist will direct you to undress (the majority of people keep their underwear on), and lie face-down under a sheet on a massage table. After an appropriate amount of time has passed, your massage therapist will knock on the door to see if you are ready. If you respond affirmatively, he’ll enter the room again and help in any way to make you more comfortable (adjust pillows, give you more sheets, etc.). Using massage lotion, the massage therapist will usually then begin to massage your back, and work down to your legs (if you are receiving a full body massage as opposed to focusing on a specific area).  You may then be asked to turn over onto your back, at which time your massage therapist will massage your legs, arms, and possibly your abdomen (for constipation). You will only be asked to uncover the area on which the massage therapist is working, and at no time will you be expected to receive massage to a degree that is painful or uncomfortable.  After your massage is completed, your massage therapist will leave the room so that you can dress. It is advisable that you take your time getting up, as rising too quickly may cause some dizziness.

 

Note that registered massage therapy is contraindicated in the following circumstances:

-          immediately after surgery

-          immediately after chemotherapy or radiation treatment

-          if you suffer from heart disease or are prone to blood clots, unless otherwise indicated by your doctor

-          if you suffer from an infectious skin disease, or have an open wound

-          if you have a fever

-          over heavy bruising, tumor, inflamed skin, or any area that might have fractured bone below the tissue surface

 

Deep tissue massage is not recommended for everyone, so be sure to discuss any and all of your pre-existing medical conditions with your massage therapist to ensure that there are no issues during your treatment.

 

After a registered massage therapy treatment, you should feel very relaxed and calm. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids to help flush your body after treatment, and follow the lifestyle advice given to you by the massage therapist.