Registered Massage Therapists Near Me

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FAQs:

What is a Registered Massage Therapist?

Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs) are health care professionals committed to restoring and maintaining optimal health and pain-free function of the body. They are educated and trained to accurately assess and treat with techniques that include massage and manual therapy, joint mobilization, hydrotherapy, and rehabilitative exercises such as stretching, strengthening, postural exercise, and patient education. RMTs are effective in treating and providing relief for a wide range of conditions such as migraine headaches, tendonitis, arthritis, osteoporosis, fibromyalgia, sports injuries, as well as many other common conditions related to soft tissue and joint dysfunction.

What is the Difference Between a Massage Therapist and a Registered Massage Therapist?

The main difference between a non-registered massage therapist and a registered one is that they do not need to complete the RMT educational program. A non-registered massage therapist will normally hold a massage certification that only requires 300 – 1000 hours of experience. Many non-registered massage therapists continue their education by specializing in certain modalities such as Swedish Massage, Deep Tissue Massage, and Trigger Point Therapy. However, they are still not considered registered unless they complete an RMT program in their practicing province. A non-registered massage therapist may also be referred to as a masseuse, masseur, or spa practitioner.

Because non-registered massage therapists often specialize in different modalities and relaxation treatments, they are better suited to clients who prefer more soothing and calming massage sessions. This type of massage is designed to reduce stress, tension, and anxiety by using gentle, slow strokes and kneading techniques that focus on calming the mind and body. It can help those who suffer from chronic pain, headaches, insomnia, depression, and more.

A Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) is a professional who specializes in the assessment, treatment, and prevention of soft tissue pain and dysfunction. They provide hands-on treatments such as trigger point therapy, joint mobilizations, deep tissue massage, myofascial release techniques, and other manual therapies. RMTs are trained to understand the anatomy and physiology of the body in order to accurately assess a person’s condition, diagnose any existing conditions, and provide effective treatment.

How Do Massages Make You Feel Better?

This is because your brain releases feel-good chemicals and pain diminishes. The therapist’s touch causes an immediate reaction in your brain. As soon as your skin’s nerve cells feel pressure, they signal the brain to release feel-good chemicals called endorphins, which boost your mood and give you a natural high. As a result, stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline begin to decrease and the overall effect is one of euphoria and bliss. If you have real aches or pains, the morphine-like effect from the endorphins will help diminish them by blocking pain signals from the brain. And if your muscles are sore after a rigorous workout, a good rubdown will actually help them heal faster. Researchers found that massage decreases the inflammation caused by exercise and increases the occurrence of cell repair.

How Effective is Massage?

One Australian study found that a 10-minute muscle massage after a workout could reduce soreness by 30%. A separate review study on massage found that levels of the stress hormone cortisol dropped 31% following a rubdown, while levels of feel-good hormones like dopamine and serotonin increased roughly 30%.

How Long Do The Benefits of Massage Last?

Everyone has a different body type making it difficult to predict how long the benefits of massage will last. However, there are some external factors that could help us determine how long the benefits will last. The benefits last differently for different people depending on the life they live and the type of massage they get. For example, if you live a stressful and hectic life, then the benefits won’t last long as compared to someone who lives a relatively stress-free life. On average, the benefits of massage can last up to a month or as little as 1 day. On average, most people notice the benefits for about a week. This is one of the reasons it’s recommended that you get a massage on a regular basis. If you are trying to treat a medical condition through massage, then regular massage can go a long way. A study revealed that for patients with osteoarthritis, regular massages can not only reduce pain but also aid in its treatment.

Is Massage Therapy for Everyone?

Massage therapy may be beneficial for anyone but has been noted to help those who have various conditions like cancer, heart disease, stomach problems, and fibromyalgia. You should make sure you talk to your therapist about any medical issues prior to your first session.

Why Do Massages Relax You?

Massage triggers the release of endorphins and serotonin. These are natural chemicals produced by your body that improve your mood, reduce pain, and ease stress and anxiety.

Does Insurance Cover Massage Therapy?

With many people turning to massage therapy as a medical treatment, it seems that health insurance should cover massages. However, not all policies do. For example, Medicare does not cover massage therapy, so you will likely be responsible for 100% of the costs if you seek this treatment. Even if your health insurance provides coverage, there may still be limitations. The definition of massage therapy may vary, depending on the insurer. That definition of massage, and the reason you’re getting one, will likely determine whether insurance will cover it. If massage treatment isn’t covered in your policy, be sure to ask about alternative options. It’s also a good idea to discuss them with your doctor.  If you are eligible for services from osteopaths, chiropractors, occupational therapists, and physical therapists who also use massage techniques, these visits may be covered by your insurance. There is no standard requirement for insurance companies to reimburse expenses for massage. Massage therapy may be covered:

1. When the massage is considered medically necessary and/or fits the definition and criteria of coverage given by the insurer.

2. If the massage fits into the criteria of a “habilitative or habilitation” treatment, it may be covered by health insurance as an essential health benefit. Talk with your doctor and your insurance company to be sure. The best way to find out whether massage therapy is covered is by asking your insurance company directly.

How Much Does a Massage Cost?

Prices vary greatly for massages in the United States. A 60-minute massage is usually $60 to $150. Most therapists will expect a 15 to 20 percent tip on top of this. However, some places don’t accept gratuity. These types of massages may cost more than a basic massage:

- aromatherapy

- hot stone

- prenatal

- sports

- therapeutic, like craniosacral and myofascial release

You can check out a massage school in your area or find a massage therapist who works at home if you want to find massages at a more reasonable cost.

Insurance sometimes covers massage therapy if you can show it’s being used to treat a medical condition. Sometimes, insurance companies will cover massage therapy if it’s part of chiropractic care.

How Much Do You Tip a Massage Therapist?

In general, the 20% rule applies to tipping your massage therapist. So, if you’re wondering how much to tip for a $100 massage, you’d want to tip $20. If you’re considering how much to tip for a 60-minute massage (that costs $100) – you’d still tip $20. However, generosity is generally very appreciated. You’re really paying for your health and wellness, so (tipping) becomes a bigger conversation. As you’re considering how much to tip massage therapists, it’s also good to keep in mind the vast range of rates that different massage therapists might charge. For instance, a 90-minute massage at a high-end spa might be $300, whereas the same service at a popular massage chain might be $150. In that scenario, the massage therapist at the chain would get $30 less of a tip.

What is Registered Massage Therapy?

Registered Massage Therapy is the manipulation of the body’s soft tissues, including muscles, connective tissues, tendons, ligaments, and joints. Massage Therapy is a clinically-oriented healthcare option that helps alleviate the discomfort associated with everyday and occupational stresses, muscular overuse, and many chronic pain conditions. Massage Therapy can be used to treat both acute and chronic conditions. RMTs can work with a variety of patients in the treatment of illness, injury rehabilitation, and disability. Massage therapy can be beneficial to a wide variety of conditions and is a great addition to your everyday healthcare.

5 Fun Facts about Massage Therapy

Here are some fun facts about massage therapy that you should know.

1.  Our pets can benefit from massages too!

Like humans, our pets respond in a positive way to massage therapy.  Massaging our pets can help alleviate pain, reduce stress, and encourage an all-over sense of well-being for our animals.  If you can get that back leg twitching, you are doing a great job!

2.  A one-hour massage is equal to 7-8 hours of sleep.

Studies have shown that a one-hour massage equates to about 7-8 hours of sleep for your body.  So if you are feeling run down and exhausted, perhaps your body is just begging you for a massage.

3.  Massage may be one of the oldest forms of medical treatment.

Various massage techniques have been around and documented for centuries.  There are pictures in Egyptian tombs of people receiving massages. 

4.  There are around 350 different massage modalities.

Not all massages are created the same.  There are over 350 different modalities, techniques, and styles of massage therapy.  Roughly 75 of them are commonly used.  Depending on the ailment, a massage therapist can choose from a variety of techniques to treat a client.  General Swedish massage techniques are often the ones taught in North America.

5.  Yes we do Legs!

Have you ever wondered if there were any other areas of the body you could have treated other than your back and neck?  Although those are likely the most common areas we treat, massage therapists can work virtually anywhere you have muscle (as long as it’s indicated of course).  Legs, feet, arms, hands, scalp, jaw, and face or glutes are all areas you could have worked on at your next visit.

6 Things to Know About Massage Therapy for Health Purposes

A lot of the scientific research on massage therapy is preliminary or conflicting, but much of the evidence points toward beneficial effects on pain and other symptoms associated with a number of different conditions. Here are six things you should know about massage therapy for health purposes.

1. Evidence suggests that massage therapy may be useful for some pain conditions such as low-back pain and chronic neck pain. However, research on massage for headaches is preliminary and only somewhat promising.

2. Research has suggested that at least for the short-term, massage therapy for cancer patients may reduce pain. Evidence has suggested that massage therapy may also promote relaxation and boost mood in people with cancer.

3. A recent review of the scientific literature concluded that massage therapy may help to reduce depression. However, a 2013 review found there is not enough evidence to determine if massage helps pregnant mothers with depression.

4. A 2010 review concluded that massage therapy may help temporarily reduce pain, fatigue, and other symptoms associated with fibromyalgia, but the evidence is not definitive. The authors of the review noted that it is important that the massage therapist not cause pain.

5. Several studies on massage therapy in preterm infants have been conducted to determine if therapeutic massage provides any benefits. A 2010 review of the scientific literature suggested that massaging preterm infants using moderate pressure may improve weight gain. However, a 2013 review determined that there is not enough evidence to know if massage benefits healthy infants who are developing normally.

6. Massage therapy appears to have few risks when performed by a trained practitioner. However, massage therapists should take some precautions for certain health conditions. You should talk with your healthcare providers to determine if massage therapy is safe for you.

Massage for Treatment of Some Disorders

Research indicates that massage and myotherapy are effective in managing:

- subacute/chronic low back pain

- delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS)

- anxiety

- stress

- soft tissue injuries

- high blood pressure

- insomnia.

They can also be effectively used to support people with:

- a chronic disease

- a life-threatening illness such as cancer

Techniques Used by Registered Massage Therapists

Swedish Massage

This is the most popular form of massage used in North America. Often a lotion or oil is used to reduce skin friction. The therapist combines light stroking in one direction with deep pressure in another to relax muscles. The treatment expedites blood flow to flush lactic acid, uric acid, and other waste products from the muscles. Ligaments and tendons are stretched increasing their suppleness. Nerves are stimulated and relaxed, and stress is alleviated. The overall goal is to relax muscles.

Deep Tissue Massage

This technique targets chronic muscle tension. The therapist's strokes are slower, using more direct pressure and friction. Depending on the texture of the deeper layers of muscle and tissue felt, the therapist periodically adjusts their hand positions, strokes, and intensity to work the tissues to release tension.

Myofascial Release

Myofascial release, or soft tissue mobilization, is a therapy used to release tension stored in the fascia. Fascia is sheets of fibrous tissue that encase and support muscles, separating them into groups and layers. Following trauma, the fascia and muscles may shorten restricting blood flow. The techniques used in myofascial release, relax muscle tension and break up fascial adhesions.

Trigger Point Release

Trigger points are tiny, tight nodules that form in muscles causing referred pain. Sometimes myofascial pain can be linked to one or more trigger points. The treatment goals include alleviating muscle spasms, improving circulation, and releasing trigger points. The therapist applies direct momentary pressure to a trigger point to cause its release. During the massage, the therapist may return several times to a stubborn trigger point to elicit its release.

Reasons to Seek Massage Therapy

Massage therapy is generally thought of as a way to pamper yourself and relax after a busy week. However, the scope of treatment that massage offers is much greater than just a luxury pampering session! There are numerous other benefits to massage therapy – here are a few of the top reasons people seek massage.

1. Relaxation

One of the most common reasons for massage is to relax; for most people who have a jam-packed, busy schedule, massage is a great way to take some time for themselves to de-stress and take a break. Not only is it the perfect way to unwind, but incorporating massage into your busy lifestyle is incredibly important for your overall mental and physical health.

2. Health and Structure

Many people book a massage appointment to treat injuries or aches and pains. Whether you are an athlete, a person who suffers from arthritis, or someone who has a stiff neck from working at a computer, massage is commonly sought after as treatment. There are specific massage techniques that can help a multitude of injuries and medical conditions. There are also clients who stick to a strictly healthy lifestyle that are in need of a way to detox and energize their bodies. The massage will allow blocked energy to flow freely through the body and stimulate the body into detoxifying toxins and wastes.

3. Recharge, Rejuvenate, and Re-energize

Another typical reason a person seeks massage is that they are just exhausted. Mentally, physically, due to illness, stress, or just daily life, it doesn’t matter – they are completely drained of energy and are searching for a way to renew themselves. Massage allows the client to rebuild their natural energy and boost them back up to normal.

4. Connection and Reconnection

Massage offers a very personal and close experience with another human, which is what many people crave. In today’s world of technology, human connection is seriously lacking. Massage is all about touch, and touch is the fastest way to connect with others.

5. A New You

It is no secret that after a massage, you leave feeling refreshed, reinvigorated, and ready to tackle anything. Many clients are seeking this sort of mental and physical change from treatment. Massage transforms the person’s physical being and mental state, which will spill over into a transformation for the rest of their life.

Health Benefits of Massage Therapy

Massage therapy may be beneficial for anyone but has been noted to help those who have various conditions like cancer, heart disease, stomach problems, and fibromyalgia. You should make sure you talk to your therapist about any medical issues prior to your first session. Here are some of the benefits of massage therapy.

1. Reduces stress and anxiety

That feeling of calm after a massage can aid in reducing stress and anxiety, a study found. Your body has two nervous systems: a sympathetic nervous system that drives your “fight or flight” response in stressful situations and a parasympathetic nervous system that focuses on routine and day-to-day operations that lead to relaxation and rest. A massage is thought to increase your parasympathetic response, which can decrease feelings of anxiety.

2. Improves sleep

Getting a massage can decrease cortisol (a stress hormone) and increase levels of serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters that are known to stabilize your mood. Studies have shown that massage therapy is beneficial for those who have insomnia related to menopause and congestive heart failure.

3. It Lessens pain and muscle tension

A variety of studies have looked into how massage may help lessen pain like acute back pain, neck pain, headaches, and knee pain. The results show that relief may be short-term, rather than long-term, and in some cases receiving a 60-minute massage multiple times per week had better results than fewer or shorter massages.

4. Improves immune function

A study suggests that regular massages increase your body’s level of white blood cells, which work to combat viruses.

5. Relieves constipation

A study shows that for those dealing with constipation after surgery, an abdominal massage may help with bowel movements.

6. Lessens fibromyalgia symptoms

From sleep, memory, and mood, studies have shown that using massage over the course of five weeks may improve symptoms of fibromyalgia, a chronic illness that causes muscle and joint pain and fatigue.

7. Relieves cancer pain

For people undergoing cancer treatments, the physical and emotional toll is great. Many have turned to massage to help lessen cancer pain, increase relaxation, and improve quality of life. There have been a variety of studies, some that say massage therapy doesn’t improve cancer pain and others that show a positive impact.

What to Expect from a Massage Therapy

Before you go for a massage, make sure you drink plenty of water and do not eat too soon before the massage. Try to give yourself plenty of time to get to the appointment so it is easier for you to relax. The massage therapist will talk to you about your health history and any problems you are experiencing. Make sure you tell them about any conditions you have or medicines you are taking. Your therapist will discuss how they are going to treat you. They will leave the room while you undress — keeping your underwear on — and you will lie down on the massage table. The therapist will knock before they come back in. You will be covered with a drape or towel during the massage, and music or aromatherapy may be used to help you relax. It is important to tell the therapist if you feel uncomfortable at any time during the massage. A professional massage therapist will never expose your breasts, genitals, or other areas you ask to keep covered.

What Not to Do After a Massage Therapy

Here is a checklist of the things you should not do after getting massage therapy. Doing these things after a massage cannot prevent you from getting the maximum benefits from massage therapy. We have listed ten (10) things that you should not do after a massage.

1. Not Drinking Enough Water

After massage therapy, decreasing your water intake after the massage therapy is not ideal. Massage therapy can help to detoxify and rehydrates your skin. You must drink enough water to assist the hydration and detoxification process.

2. Take A Shower Immediately

By taking a shower immediately after your massage therapy session, you will wash off the massage oils. These massage oils are not yet completely absorbed by the skin cells. It is best to shower after an hour of your massage therapy session. Let the message oil sit and absorbed your skin cells within an hour.

3. Taking a Hot Shower

After your massage therapy, we know that taking a hot shower is tempting. However, if you are suffering from a muscle injury, it will increase inflammation. You have to skip first taking a hot shower. It is better to use cold water for pain relief. Moreover, it is ideal to use warm water when taking a shower. This can help to relax your body.

4. Eating A Large Meal

After a massage, you may feel hungry. This happens due to the increase of blood circulation, which maximizes body systems function including, our digestive system. And, by eating a large meal, you will end up feeling bloated, sluggish, or lethargic. It is best to eat a light and healthy snack to feel more energized after a massage.

5. Drinking Coffee

After relaxing massage therapy, you may be in the mood to take a great cup of coffee. However, drinking coffee after a massage is not a good idea. You cannot maximize the detoxification and rehydration process. You need to wait a few hours after your message before drinking a cup of coffee. This can help you avoid dehydration. Moreover, it is best to drink your coffee the next day and rehydrate yourself by drinking enough water.

6. Drinking Alcohol

Drinking alcoholic beverages cannot encourage the hydration and detox process. It can cause dehydration. You have to avoid drinking alcohol for a day. It is best to drink enough water to promote hydration and to help flush toxins. Moreover, by avoiding alcohol, you can prevent next-day soreness.

7. Doing Strenuous Exercises or Activities

After a relaxing massage, you may feel energized to go to a gym and do some strenuous exercise. However, this can lead to muscle soreness. Moreover, doing some strenuous activities can injure your muscles. Avoid doing some strenuous activities after your massage therapy. It is best for your body and mind to relax. You can do some light activities – watch some movies or read some good books – chill and relax! Moreover, after a massage is the best time to hibernate. You can nap for a while.

8. Stressing Yourself Out

One of the main benefits of massage therapy is helping you manage your stress. It aims to reduce your stress. However, not avoiding things that cause you to stress can make you feel anxious, which cannot help your body and mind to continue the relaxation mode. After massage therapy, you should create a plan for the day. You have to make enough ‘me-time’ or self-care time. Moreover, you have to schedule your day as a low-stress one. For example, make sure not to have any other meetings or errands after a massage. Take a rest!

9. Forget to Stretch

You may feel that your body is so relaxed after a massage. It also helps to loosen your stiff muscles and knots. However, if you forget to stretch after a massage therapy session, you can’t prolong this effect. After a relaxing massage session, make sure that before you get off the massage table, do some moderate stretches within a minute or two. You can do some lunges, shoulder, and torso rotations, and toe touches. You may also continue doing some moderate stretches at home.

10. Not Doing the Homework Assigned by the Therapist

If you forget to follow the advice of a massage therapist, you will decrease the benefits that you can get from massage therapy. Follow the advice and instructions of your massage therapist to get the most out of your massage therapy session. If your therapist assigned some stretching, stretching, or some movement-based exercises – don’t forget to do them! You have to do your homework to gain the long-lasting effects of massage.

How to Find a Massage Therapist

Like choosing other healthcare professionals, it's essential to be a conscious consumer when selecting a massage therapist. Ask your primary care provider or someone else you trust to recommend a reputable business or therapist.

Don't be afraid to ask a potential massage therapist questions such as:

- Are you licensed, certified, or registered?

- What are your training and experience?

- How many massage therapy sessions do you think I'll need?

- What's the cost, and is it covered by health insurance?

A skilled therapist has a vast toolbox of techniques that can be incorporated based on your needs, and he or she will respond and modify these techniques based on your feedback. Massage therapy is safe and effective for people of all ages. It's not only a feel-good way to indulge or pamper yourself. It's a powerful tool to help you take charge of your health and well-being, whether you have a specific health condition or are looking for a stress reliever.

Sources:

Queen’s Park Massage Therapy

CCMT

Footprint Wellness Centre

The Balance

Cleveland Clinic

NIH

DIMS

Evergreen

Health Direct

Mayo Clinic

Healthline

US News

Well Stated

Loving Life

Better Health

TIME

The Baton Rouge Clinic

 

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 (in the United States) immediately.