Q: What is massage therapy?

A: Massage is the manipulation of soft tissues in the body. Massage techniques are commonly applied with hands, fingers, elbows, knees, forearms, feet, or a device. The purpose of massage is generally for the treatment of body stress or pain.

Q: How often should I get a massage?

A: The answer depends on your reasons for getting a massage. If you are looking for relaxation and/or maintaining your good health, then once a month is ideal for massage therapy.

If you have a specific health concern, such as acute conditions, then you will likely require a series of treatments followed up with maintenance or preventive treatments.

It is important that you seek professional treatments from a registered massage therapist, who can help you establish a program which fits your physical needs and lifestyle.  A good RMT is most interested in your recovery and in the maintenance of your health, so following their advice will help to treat conditions and return you to optimal health sooner.

Q: What are the benefits to massage therapy?

A: There are tremendous benefits to be achieved through regular massage therapy treatments from a Registered Massage Therapist.  Whether your need is to have a moment of relaxation, reduce muscle tension or attain relief from chronic pain, a therapeutic massage can enhance your overall sense of emotional and physical well-being.

Massage therapy can be an important part of your health maintenance plan by: 

• Reducing or eliminating pain

• Improving joint mobility

• Improving lymphatic drainage 

• Reducing muscular tension

Massage therapy can be used for the treatment of both acute and chronic conditions. RMTs can work with a wide variety of patients, of all ages, in the treatment of illness, injury rehabilitation and disability.

Q: Will the massage treatment hurt?

A: While it’s not uncommon to feel some muscle soreness after a massage, to reduce the risk of post massage soreness you can advise your RMT if the pressure seems to be too much during the session.

Massage therapy triggers a release of lactic acid stored in tight muscles, which can create a temporary feeling of soreness. The good news? Many people enjoy post-massage heightened energy levels and an increased range of motion.