What is a Registered Massage Therapist?
Massage therapy is a regulated health profession in Ontario (just like nurses, physicians, pharmacists, etc).
An RMT is someone who has:
Completed a 2200 hour competency-based education at educational institutions recognized by the Government of Ontario.
Studied anatomy, physiology, pathology, physical assessment, neurology, treatments, ethics and other subjects.
Completed a minimum of 150 clinical hours
Successfully completed examinations from and have been "registered" by the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (the College) in accordance with the Regulated Health Professions Act and the Massage Therapy Act.
Maintained their registration by participating in continuing education and a Quality Assurance Program that assists them in the maintenance of high professional standards and quality care of their clients.
Only members of the College are permitted to use the title, Massage Therapist or Registered Massage Therapist or the designation of RMT or MT. All members of the Ontario Massage Therapist Association must be registered with the College and are therefore licensed massage therapy practitioners.
An RMT is someone who has:
Completed a 2200 hour competency-based education at educational institutions recognized by the Government of Ontario.
Studied anatomy, physiology, pathology, physical assessment, neurology, treatments, ethics and other subjects.
Completed a minimum of 150 clinical hours
Successfully completed examinations from and have been "registered" by the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (the College) in accordance with the Regulated Health Professions Act and the Massage Therapy Act.
Maintained their registration by participating in continuing education and a Quality Assurance Program that assists them in the maintenance of high professional standards and quality care of their clients.
Only members of the College are permitted to use the title, Massage Therapist or Registered Massage Therapist or the designation of RMT or MT. All members of the Ontario Massage Therapist Association must be registered with the College and are therefore licensed massage therapy practitioners.
Common Questions About Pregnancy Massage
It is Safe?
You and your baby’s well-being comes first. As a registered massage therapist I have taken additional courses that have certified me in pregnancy massage and as a doula and labour support provider. I work with you to develop an effective and safe massage therapy treatment plan during your pregnancy that will complement the care you are receiving from your doctor and other healthcare providers.
When can I receive a pregnancy massage?
You can receive a massage during pregnancy as soon as you want. Pregnancy massage, despite myths, is not associated with an increased risk of miscarriage. In fact many women have regular massages before they even know they're pregnant. It is safe to receive massages on your stomach until about 12 weeks, at which time you will lay on your side.
What do I wear?
Many moms choose to remove all of their clothing, though they are never exposed as they are always covered by sheets. Some choose to wear their undergarments. Whatever you choose to wear or remove is completely up to you and your comfort level.
Is a pregnancy massage different from a regular massage?
The room setting for a pregnancy massage is much like a typical massage. The room will have low lighting, and soft music to help you and your baby relax. You will turn from side to side to treat your back and hips, and there are lots of pillows to make you comfortable.
Do you use a pregnancy table or pillow that allows me to lie on my stomach?
I do not use a pregnancy table for the following reasons:
I use several pillows and wedge bolsters to ensure a custom, comfortable, perfect position on your side. All of the expectant women I have treated have been comfortable.
I don't use a pregnancy pillow because of our changing, stretching ligaments during pregnancy. We have ligaments from our uterus to our sacrum (low back). When you are positioned face down on a pregnancy table, even with a support strap for your pregnant belly, the weight of your uterus can pull your low back out of alignment. This can aggrevate low back and hip pain, which are usually common, painful areas during pregnancy as it is.
I hope this helps you understand why I choose not to have a pregnancy table. If you have further questions about anything please contact me.
I use several pillows and wedge bolsters to ensure a custom, comfortable, perfect position on your side. All of the expectant women I have treated have been comfortable.
I don't use a pregnancy pillow because of our changing, stretching ligaments during pregnancy. We have ligaments from our uterus to our sacrum (low back). When you are positioned face down on a pregnancy table, even with a support strap for your pregnant belly, the weight of your uterus can pull your low back out of alignment. This can aggrevate low back and hip pain, which are usually common, painful areas during pregnancy as it is.
I hope this helps you understand why I choose not to have a pregnancy table. If you have further questions about anything please contact me.
