Massage Therapy is the hands-on manipulation of the soft tissues of the body including muscles, connective tissue, tendons, ligaments, and joints. It helps alleviate the soft tissue discomfort associated with everyday and occupational stresses, muscular over-use and many chronic pain conditions. Massage Therapy also aims to prevent physical dysfunction and pain, as well as enhance the well being of the client.
What is a Registered Massage Therapist?
A Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) has completed an intensive 2200 hours of training in the areas of anatomy, pathology, physiology, and treatment of a variety of conditions. They have also passed the licensing examinations required by the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario. The profession of massage therapy is regulated in the province of Ontario under the Regulated Health Professions Act.
All of the massage therapists at KWFC are registered massage therapists, so you can be assured of both their education and knowledge and that they meet the requirements set out by extended health care companies if you are trying to claim your massage therapy service.
At Kingston West Family Chiropractic, we put our clients first. It is our goal to ensure you get the best possible massage experience. Whether you are here for sports massage, a relaxing massage, stress or pain relief, or a pregnancy massage, our experienced staff will ensure you get the most out of your massage!
What to Expect during a Visit
Please download and complete the registered massage therapy health history form from the forms section of the website and bring it to your first appointment. If you don’t have access to a printer, or forget your forms, they can be completed at KWFC. Please arrive 10 minutes early for your appointment. This will give you time to use the washroom, update any forms and remove any wet or muddy footwear at the front of the clinic. Slippers are provided for your convenience.
The health history form information is important in determining your assessment and the type of treatment that is needed. All information shared is confidential and treatment notes will be made after every treatment. This allows the therapist at KWFC to continue on with the treatment performed during your previous visits.
Massage therapy should take place in an atmosphere of safety and confidence. It is a partnership between you and your therapist, who will help you understand your situation and how you can work together to change it.
Preparation
Treatment takes place in one of our private rooms. After a brief assessment, the therapist will provide you with an overview of which areas of the body require therapy and which articles of clothing should be removed to provide treatment. At this point the client will be given about five minutes to change and lie underneath the top sheet and blanket of the massage table.
You should not be asked to expose yourself beyond the point at which you are comfortable, nor should you be asked to accept any treatment which has not been explained to you or which you do not choose to accept. You may need to undress for therapy, but massage therapists are required to drape you with a sheet so that they expose only that portion of your body on which they are working. It is quite possible to work on a client who is dressed; while this will obviously restrict the type of therapy you receive, you have a right to be respected in your choice. You will never be made to feel uncomfortable.
The therapist will then knock to ensure that you are ready, and the treatment will begin.
We believe that your treatment will be most effective with your input. You are always encouraged to give feedback before, during, and after treatment. If at any point something is uncomfortable during treatment, make sure to let your therapist know, if ever you wish for more pressure you should also let your therapist know. Your therapist will work with you to find a treatment that works for your needs, this will include regularly scheduled visits as well as home care such as stretching.
During the Massage You are encouraged to turn off cell phones and any other electronic devices to avoid outside distraction during your treatment. You are welcome to talk or not talk, as you prefer during your treatment. We have music that will be playing during your massage, but if you have a preference please let us know, or if you would prefer to not have music during your appointment, that is fine as well. If you have a specific request, please ask! We invite your feedback and happily share our knowledge.
After Your Massage
After a massage some people feel relaxed, others have an increase in energy, but some may feel tired and a little sore as the toxins released during the massage are flushed from your body. If you have not had massage therapy previously, or it has been a while, there may be some delayed onset muscle soreness if you requested deep tissue therapy. It will pass in a couple of days. It is important that you drink lots of water to aid in your body’s natural healing process. Your therapist may suggest the application of heat or an Epson salt bath to aid in your recovery. Self massage, stretching and other remedial exercises may also be recommended after your massage to reinforce the treatment. The best results are achieved when massage is implemented on a regular basis. When it is combined as part of a multidisciplinary treatment plan and you keep up your self care, you will see the best overall results. Your therapist will be able to give you a recommendation on how often you should receive massage therapy for your specific needs.
FAQ
Can I have a massage and an adjustment on the same day? The short answer is yes, but we recommend doing each individually a few times first, as some people may find they are a little bit sore starting something new and a lot of change all at once may not be well tolerated. In terms of which you should do first vs second on the same day, or consecutively, should be discussed with your therapist and/or chiropractor.
Should I always see the same therapist for follow-up massage therapy appointments? It is your choice if you want to receive treatment with the same therapist each appointment, or if you would like to see one of the other therapists, or you are open to seeing who is available when it works best for you.
Hot Stone Massage Come in and treat yourself or a loved one to a hot stone massage!
The origins of Hot Stone Therapy date back more than 5,000 years ago. In India, the ancient healing tradition known as Ayur Veda or Ayurvedic medicine, incorporated herbs, flowers, crystals and heated stones. Stones were collected from riverbeds and warmed in water or on hot coals. The stones were than used to massage the body and also placed along the body’s energy pathways to allow the “prana”, or life force to heal on a physical, emotional, and spiritual level.
As in the past, today Hot Stone Therapy combines traditional Swedish massage with the application of hot and cold basalt stones, which are placed upon specifics areas and massaged over the body. Basalt stones are classified as extrusive igneous rock and are formed as lava cools following volcanic eruption. They are comprised of many minerals including, calcium, magnesium, iron and sodium. They are smooth and known for their ability to absorb and retain heat.
There are many benefits to Hot Stone Therapy. It is a relaxing treatment that decreases the overall aches and pains associated with muscle tension and joint pain, and also helps to improve circulation. The cold stones are used to stimulate and decrease inflammation and swelling, and to help treat sinus congestion and headaches.
So why wait, book your appointment today with registered massage therapist Michelle Brisebois.
Find out more about us! Information taken from the Stone Massage Company and Hot Stone Therapy Instructional Manual Second Edition Hot Stone Therapy Instructional Manual Second Edition
Gift certificates are available for massage therapy when you are searching for that perfect gift for someone special!