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October is massage therapy month

VANCOUVER – The Registered Massage Therapists' Association of B.C. (RMTBC) is taking advantage of the observance of Massage Therapy Month this October to update and educate the public on the benefits of massage therapy to physical and mental health, a press release from the RMTBC said.

October 4, 2016  By Massage Therapy Canada staff


In British Columbia, medical physicians regularly refer their patients to a registered massage therapist (RMT). Many of these patients come with complex health care needs as well as an informed knowledge about personal health. Physicians make these referrals because massage therapy is both accessible and effective in the treatment of their patients’ conditions. Today, RMTs utilize specific techniques and modalities, which can include massage therapy, manual therapy, joint mobilization, hydrotherapy, and rehab exercises.

“Over the past decade, there has been a significant rise in the demand for massage therapy in BC. This can be attributed to higher educational standards, research studies showing the efficacy of massage therapy, and an overall increase in public demand for non-surgical and drug-free treatment options,” the RMTBC said.

RMTs work with illness, injury and disability in diverse and broad patient populations. They are primary health-care professionals that focus on disorders of the musculoskeletal and related systems. RMTs are also increasingly expanding their services with proven results in the treatment of mental health issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder. Testimonials and proven research show that massage therapy with remedial exercise can reduce pain, anxiety and stress, improve joint movement, sleep and ones’ overall quality of life.

British Columbia RMTs are legislated by the government under the BC Health Professions Act and are an integral part of the B.C. health care fabric. Brenda Locke, executive director of RMTBC expressed pride in the fact that B.C. RMTs have some of the highest standards in North America, and a career as a RMT is one of the fastest growing professions in the province.

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“Our membership is experiencing tremendous growth, we are constantly expanding and adapting our continuing education programs with conferences, seminars and learning situations that offer our members instruction from some of the best health-care professionals in the world. We constantly strive to provide our members with the support to succeed in their careers while addressing the complex needs of their patients. Our commitment to developing and upholding the highest possible health care standards and regulations is the prime mandate of our organization,” Locke said.

There are currently 3,700 RMTs in B.C.


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