Five Things to Know Before Booking a Massage
July 2024
Have you tried Massage Therapy before? If you have, you know Massage Therapy has many benefits, like pain relief and relaxation.
But if you haven’t experienced Massage Therapy for yourself, you might wonder what to expect from your first appointment. Whether you are new to Massage Therapy or a long-time client, here are five things you should keep in mind before seeing a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) in Ontario.
- Massage Therapy is healthcare. Whether received at a health clinic, sporting event, spa or home clinic, Massage Therapy is healthcare and RMTs are regulated health professionals who are overseen by CMTO.
- Your health history matters. Your RMT will collect personal health information about your general health, medications, and any preexisting health conditions, to provide you with the best possible care. Only information needed to provide safe and effective Massage Therapy treatment can be collected, but you can choose not to share information too if you aren’t comfortable. RMTs will ensure that all client records are kept in compliance with CMTO’s Record Keeping Requirements.
- You stay in control of your care. RMTs will ask for your consent before starting treatment or making any changes to your treatment plan. As a client, you have the right to ask your RMT to stop, modify, or explain your treatment – at any time, for any reason.
- Feel covered and safe. You should always feel comfortable and safe during your treatment. For example, you can decide how much clothing to remove, or request the pressure level that feels right for you.
- Always look before you book. To take full advantage of everything Massage Therapy can offer, it’s important that you visit an RMT. They are regulated health professionals who have met high educational standards, are required to adhere to professional standards and rules, and their conduct is overseen by CMTO. Use CMTO’s Find an RMT tool to verify that the person you intend to see is a qualified RMT.
To learn more, check out CMTO’s video about 5 Things You Need to Know Before Getting a Massage.
