Frequently Asked Questions
How is a Registered Massage Therapist different from a Masseuse/Masseur?
A Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) is a healthcare professional that is licensed and goverened by the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO). The title of 'Massage Therapist' can only be used by a registrant with the CMTO and is a legally protected title. RMTs have completed a 2-3 year diploma program with an accredited massage therapy school and are inspected for quality assurance on a regular basis to uphold a high standard of practice.
Do massages need to be painful to be effective?
The simple answer is no. A massage can have a certain amount of discomfort, but should never exceed a person's tolerance. Depending on the goal and focus of the treatment, pressure can be adjusted by the RMT or changed by request from the patient/client at any time.
Do I need to remove my clothes to get a massage?
As the patient/client, you have the option to remove/leave on as much or as little as your clothing as you would like; most patients undress down to their undergarments. The typical setup of the massage table has a minimum of two sheets, one to cover the table and one to cover you. Only the body area being treated at the immediate time will be uncovered and if you are uncomfortable at any time, you should bring up your concern immediately.
What should I expect at my first appointment?
Your first appointment will involve a review of your initial intake/consent forms in order for your RMT to understand your current condition(s) or to complete if you haven't done so prior to your appointment. Orthopedic tests may also be performed to help understand and better treat your condition. Your RMT will then explain how the treatment will proceed for the day and a treatment plan will be discussed during the treatment. More often than not, you will be recommended stretches, exercises and/or strategies you could use at home/work in order to improve and maintain your overall health. The initial intake form will be emailed to you when your appointment has been confirmed. The consent forms can be found at 'Step 3' on the 'New Patients' tab
How does acupuncture work and does it hurt?
At R3, we perform Contemporary Medical Acupuncture (taught at McMaster University). With the use of very fine, sterile, one-time-use acupuncture needles, we are trying to stimulate the human nervous system by targeting specific points on the body that contain neuro-sensitive tissues. By providing stimulation to the nervous system, we are optimizing the nerve signals at the local and systemic level thereby allowing the body to function at it's optimal potential. Acupuncture should be painfree, but there might be moments of mild undiscomfort, such as the initial insertion. You may also feel a sensation of 'heaviness' or pressure at the location of a needle or you can also feel absolutely nothing.