Massage Therapy Defined
The practice of massage therapy is the assessment of the soft tissues and joints of the body and the treatment and prevention of dysfunction, injury, pain and physical disorders of the soft tissues and joints by manual and physical methods to develop, maintain, rehabilitate or augment physical function, to relieve pain and promote health.
Massage Therapists practice a wide variety of treatment modalities, including but not limited to:
- Manual therapy techniques such as soft tissue manipulation and joint mobilizations
- Active therapy such as strengthening, stretching, and other rehabilitative exercises
- Hydrotherapy and water therapy
- Postural exercise, ergonomics and patient education
Massage Therapy in Canada is a primary health care profession. Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs) are highly educated in assessment, treatment and prevention and use an array of manual therapy techniques and modalities in the interest of myofascial and musculoskeletal care.
Standards of Care
Massage Therapists may only provide treatment if they have a reasonable expectation, based upon clinical findings, that it will be of health benefit to a patient. A treatment plan – inclusive of objectives, summary of assessment, and description of treatment provided and any revisions – must be maintained in a health record for each patient.