Getting a massage can be very helpful, especially if you see a Registered Massage Therapist who has the training to truly understand your condition and what you need. Many people do not know the difference between those massage therapists who are registered, and those who aren’t. However, it can make quite a difference in the services received during a massage. The following will help you understand what a Registered Massage Therapist is, and why they are so helpful.

What is a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT)?
A massage therapist has to meet certain requirements in order to earn the professional designation of a RMT. The first is that the he or she needs to have graduated from a program. The second is that they spent a minimum of 2 years at a school which is recognized. Recognized schools offer two year programs in Canada which include a minimum of 2200 instruction hours. The programs follow the competencies established nationally in Canada in 2012. Thirdly, therapists must be registered as a member of a Regulatory College, or association of Massage Therapists (in some cases).

Benefits of Paying for the Services of an RMT
The benefits to choosing a RMT over a massage therapist include the following. RMT’s have been trained in nutrition, human anatomy, human physiology, musculoskeletal anatomy, kinesiology, pathology, therapeutic exercise, massage theory, massage techniques, ethics, clinical assessment, clinical treatment planning and the treatment of various conditions. Due to this extensive training, RMT’s have a wide range of knowledge they can apply to the treatment of their clients. Patients, and other healthcare professionals, can trust that a RMT meets the practicing standards, therefore creating a sense of trust in their services.

Specialized Health Conditions
The education and training received by RMT’s, also enables them to handle specialized cases, specifically those that require special attention to a health condition. Note that the goal of massage therapy is to alleviate pain, cure a number of health issues and promote well-being. RMT’s have studied different subjects related to health, so have more knowledge to properly identify problems.

Injury and Ailment Rehabilitation
RMT’s are also trained in terms of identifying the root causes of injuries, so they can play a major role in treating and facilitating recovery from injuries and ailments. The fact that they have completed the number of clinical hours they have, as well as passed the exams required by the law, is an indication that they are capable of assessing their client’s needs and concerns.

Expert Treatment Plans
Additionally, they can perform a variety of muscle and motion tests as a means of identifying the best treatment plan for their clients. RMT’s are well-trained in terms of administering various massage procedures and curing damages to soft tissues and joints. They do all these through their expert knowledge on soft tissue manipulation, trigger point therapy, hydrotherapy, relaxation techniques, remedial exercise programs and lower grade and joint pain mobilization.

Posture Improvement
Registered massage therapists can also offer suggestions on how to improve posture. They can recommend the most effective rehabilitative, relaxation, strengthening and stretching exercises that work suitably for each unique case.

Is your Massage Therapist Registered?
With this in mind, you may be wondering how to find a RMT. There are about 22,000 massage therapists in Canada, and about 60% are RMT’s. They are typically found in the legislated provinces, where they are allowed to use the title “Registered Massage Therapist”, under the Massage Therapy Act. Section 9 of the Trademarks Act of Canada considers Registered Massage Therapist an “official mark”, so you can ask potential massage therapists if they have been registered and certified.

If you want to get the most effective treatment when undergoing massage therapy, then finding a Registered Massage Therapist is a must. Your chosen RMT will be fit to help you deal with concerns affecting your health, muscles, tissues and other problematic body parts from an expert’s point of view.

Article Author: Shelly Jackson is a Registered Massage Therapist and owner of Buena Vista Massage Therapy Clinic in Vancouver, BC. On a daily basis we deal with: resolving muscle and movement stiffness and pain; injuries from vehicles or sports; post breast cancer rehab; pregnancy related discomfort; repetitive strain and overuse injuries. We work with clients to reduce their anxiety and stress, improve joint movement, sleep and quality of life. Working with qualified massage therapists is necessary for your continued health. Contact us at 604-538-7166 and we would be happy to answer any questions you have.

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