What is Massage Therapy?

Massage Therapy refers to the hands-on manipulation of the body’s soft tissue (muscles and connective tissue).

Massage Therapy treatments aim to:

• decrease pain
• increase pain-free range of movement
• decrease muscle tension

What conditions can be helped by Massage Therapy?

• tension headaches
• migraines
• whiplash
• neck and back pain
• muscle strains and sprains
• T.M.J. (jaw) pain
• tendonitis
• repetitive strain injuries

What should I expect when I arrive for a Massage Treatment?

• You will fill out a confidential health history information sheet.
• The Massage Therapist will ask you some questions regarding your health and areas of pain in order to assess your condition.
• You will choose which areas of your body that you would like to have treated.
• The Massage Therapist will leave the room while you remove your clothing. You decide how much clothing you are comfortable removing.
• You will lie down on a massage table and fully cover yourself with a sheet and blanket before the Therapist enters the room.
• Areas requiring treatment will be uncovered, treated and then covered again before the Massage Therapist moves to another area of your body.

Will the massage be painful?

• Massage therapy is not inherently painful.
• Techniques can vary from being light and relaxing to much deeper and more uncomfortable.
• The amount of pressure used depends on your individual needs.
• The Massage Therapist will ask for your input to ensure that you are comfortable.

What if I just want a relaxation massage?

• The focus of a relaxation massage is to help the body rid itself of stress and areas of tension.
• Prolonged periods of increased stress can have serious health effects such as: frequent headaches, reduced sleep quality, increased muscular pain and decreased immune system function.
• Many people have found that a regularly scheduled massage (eg. monthly) can help to decrease the effects of stress.

Is a Doctor’s referral needed?

A Doctor’s referral is only required if treatments are being claimed through Extended Health Benefits (health insurance).

Unfortunately, Massage Therapy is not covered by O.H.I.P.

What kind of coverage is available?

Coverage may be available in full or in part for Massage Therapy through many employee extended health care plans, motor vehicle accident insurance, disability plans and through the Department of Veteran Affairs. Please check your policy for details.

Does the Sport Medicine & Rehabilitation Centre only treat athletes?

Everyone is welcome at the Collingwood Sport Medicine and Rehabilitation Centre.

We provide treatment to people of all fitness levels – from professional athletes to people who don’t exercise.

Many people are self-conscious about their body image (weight and shape). The Massage Therapist prides herself on creating a comfortable, non-judgmental atmosphere.