Massage therapy is the manipulation of soft tissues of the body including, muscles, joints, tendons, ligaments, and connective tissues. Massage Therapy is a clinically-oriented healthcare option that helps alleviate the discomfort associated with traumas or accidents, occupational stresses, repetitive stress or overuse injuries, and many chronic pain conditions.

Massage therapy should be provided by a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT). An RMT is an individual who is registered with the College of Massage Therapists of British Columbia, in accordance with the Regulated Health Professions Act and the Massage Therapy Act. Only registrants with the BC College of Massage Therapists are permitted to use the title Massage Therapist (MT), Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) and the equivalents in other languages.

A Registered Massage Therapist is a primary healthcare provider in BC and anyone may visit an RMT of their choice. A referral or prescription is not required to visit an RMT, but some insurance companies may require this.

Massage Therapy can be used to treat both chronic and acute conditions. RMTs can work with a variety of patient populations in the treatment of disability, illness, and injury rehabilitation. Massage therapy can be beneficial to many different conditions and is a great addition to your everyday healthcare.

It is in your best interest to seek massage therapy from a Registered Massage Therapist for the following reasons:

  • they have completed a 2-3 year program at a recognized school of massage therapy;
  • they have passed an entry-to-practice examination that ensures they have the competencies necessary to safely and effectively offer massage therapy services;
  • they must participate in continuing education courses that assist in the maintenance of professional standards and quality care;
  • they are accountable to the BC College of Massage Therapy, through the complaints and discipline processes, in the event that the services they provide to not meet the standards of practice;
  • they provide a receipt that will be accepted by your extended health benefits plan for reimbursement (provided you plan covers massage therapy). They are able to treat patients who have an ICBC injury claim.