A registered massage therapist (RMT) is a trained and certified professional who manipulates the soft tissues of your body including muscle, connective tissue, tendons, and ligaments using varying degrees of pressure and movements.
Tips & Links
A massage therapist can provide support to those living with a chronic illness by alleviating pain, reducing muscle tension, and improving circulation, which can enhance overall well-being and comfort.
Learn About
- A registered massage therapist is regulated by the College of Complimentary Health Professionals in BC (CCHPBC).
- RMTs can provide massage therapy to help alleviate chronic pain, muscle stiffness, and joint discomfort that may be caused by illness, lack of mobility, exercise, and many other reasons.
- Find a registered massage therapist through the Registered Massage Therapist Association of BC.
- Know that registered massage therapists can work privately in their homes or in an office/clinic setting.
- Know that extended or private health benefits in BC only usually cover treatments that are provided by a certified practitioner.
Things You Can Do
- Learn how treatments can enhance flexibility and mobility, and improve circulation, making it easier to perform daily activities and maintain an active lifestyle.
- Check your health benefits to learn about your coverage for therapies like massage.
- Learn about eligibility for supplementary benefits for low income, mental health, First Nations patients.
- Keep a record of your pain on your health calendar and include when it started, description, level, and location of the pain, time of day, any connection to food or activities, and impact on your sleep.
- Learn about resources for chronic pain from the Division of Family Practice.
- Know about your patient rights including informed consent, privacy and confidentiality, and the right to refuse or accept care.
- Develop your self-advocacy skills to ensure your questions are answered and your needs and decisions are heard.
- Be aware of your personal boundaries and know how to express them, especially when privacy and personal contact are involved in your treatment.
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