About Massage Therapy

What is Massage Therapy?

The Massage Therapy Act, 1991, the provincial legislation for Massage Therapy in Ontario, defines the practice of Massage Therapy as “the assessment of the soft tissue and joints of the body and the treatment and prevention of physical dysfunction and pain of the soft tissue and joints by manipulation to develop, maintain, rehabilitate or augment physical function, or relieve pain”.  

Massage techniques most commonly include pressure and compression, kneading, friction techniques, stretches and joint mobilizations to improve the health and condition of the muscles, tendons, skin, fascia or connective tissue of the body.

What are the benefits of massage therapy?

A Registered Massage Therapist performs massage therapy treatments to help with:

• Reducing muscle tension
• Reducing and help manage areas of discomfort and pain
• Improving respiratory function
• Increasing circulation
• Improving immune system function
• Having a reflexive effect on the neurological system
• Improving joint mobility
• Physically increasing muscle flexibility
• Decreasing stress levels and overall discomfort
• Increasing body awareness

How will I know if my Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) is a qualified healthcare professional?

Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs) are regulated healthcare professionals who are recognized by the Regulated Health Professions Act (RHPA). They must be registered and be in good standing with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO) to be able to practice in Ontario. They are issued a wall certificate and photo ID from the CMTO demonstrating proof of their registration to be able to provide safe and effective treatments to the public.

All Registered Massage Therapists also:

• Adhere to a Code of Ethics
• Maintain the principles of the College’s Charter on Professionalism
• Meet or exceed defined Massage Therapy Competency Standards
• Take part in the Quality Assurance Programme which encourages the evaluation and improvement of Massage Therapists’ competencies through self assessment peer assessment and continuing education
• Have received education regarding the prevention of all forms of abuse of their clients, particularly sexual abuse
• Maintain privacy and confidentiality of their client’s personal health information and records
• Are involved in the College’s activities as a self-regulating health profession, providing information and feedback on College initiatives, and participating in College activities as Council and committee members, peer assessors, examiners and subject matter experts.