Thursday, 16 December 2010

The Benefits of Choosing a Registered Massage Therapist

Pop into any day spa or salon in your neighbourhood and you've probably noticed a number of different massages as part of their offerings. Relaxing massages, hot stone massages, Thai massage... the list is endless. But if you're thinking of massage therapy, take note: These spa-style massages aren't what you need.


Yes, indulging in a luxurious massage at a spa is indeed a wonderful thing. It's a great way to relax and unwind from our hectic lifestyles. Massage therapy, on the other hand, is just that: Therapy. It is designed to help alleviate pain, treat health conditions and ailments and is part of a good, overall health management plan.


That's why you need to ensure you see a registered massage therapist, or RMT. If you're suffering from neck pain, back pain, knee pain or a whole host of other conditions, an RMT is the person who can help. Unlike getting a "relaxation" massage at a spa, seeing an RMT means you are seeing someone who is trained in more than just massage techniques. An RMT can help you identify the cause of an injury and take an active role in your treatment and recovery.


An RMT is trained in a number of different areas, including anatomy, physiology, pathology, neurology and much more. In fact, in Ontario, an RMT must complete a minimum of 150 clinical hours and successfully completed examinations in accordance with the law. Other provinces have similar requirements, which means when you see an RMT, you know you're seeing someone with the experience and education to help treat your particular health issue.


Most extended health care benefits plans cover the cost of massage therapy, although some plans may require you obtain a doctor's note. Be sure to check with the massage therapist to ensure he or she is registered and you can submit the invoices to your benefits provider.


Want to know how to find a good RMT? Start by searching for one on the Internet. The massage therapist's website will have information to help you determine if that person meets your requirements.


Of course, that's not to say you can't ever go for a relaxing spa treatment massage. It's simply that if you're looking for relief from a health condition, an RMT is definitely the way to go.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_G._Jones

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