Registered Massage Therapy – RMT

Massage therapy is a clinical, hands-on treatment that focuses on muscles, joints, connective tissue, and the nervous system to reduce pain, improve mobility, and support recovery.

At MSK Clinics, massage therapy in Vancouver, Burnaby, and Kitsilano is assessment-based and delivered exclusively by Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs). Treatment plans are designed to address pain, injury, postural strain, and long-term musculoskeletal health—not just temporary relaxation.

Treatment plans address pain, injury, postural strain, and long-term musculoskeletal health—not just temporary relaxation

RMT stands for Registered Massage Therapist.

In British Columbia, the College of Massage Therapists of BC (CMTBC) is the only regulated college for massage therapists. Members of the CMTBC are referred to as Registered Massage Therapists.

Any other terminology used by bodyworkers may indicate they are not part of the regulated professional body in BC and may not meet professional healthcare standards.

Only treatment provided by an RMT is eligible for extended health insurance reimbursement.

Massage therapy is the general term for therapeutic massage.

RMT massage therapy refers specifically to massage therapy performed by a licensed Registered Massage Therapist.

Only RMT massage therapy:

• Is regulated in British Columbia
• Is covered by extended health insurance
• Includes clinical assessment and documentation
• Meets healthcare standards of care

Yes. Massage therapy services in Burnaby and Vancouver are covered by most private extended health insurance plans.

MSK Clinics offers direct billing to many major third-party insurance providers and also accepts MSP and ICBC claims when applicable.

Coverage varies by provider and plan but typically includes a yearly dollar amount for massage therapy services.

No. In British Columbia, you do not need a doctor’s referral to see a Registered Massage Therapist.

You can book RMT massage therapy directly at MSK Clinics in Downtown Vancouver, Kitsilano , or Burnaby Metrotown without seeing a physician first.

Appointments can be booked in:

• 30 minutes
• 45 minutes
• 60 minutes (most common)
• 90 minutes

For your initial visit, we recommend booking at least 45 minutes, as the first appointment includes:

• Arriving 10 minutes early to complete a health history form
• A 10–15 minute assessment (interview + hands-on testing)
• Treatment based on findings
• The final minutes may include self-care advice or remedial exercises

Your RMT will help determine the ideal session length for your needs.

Massage therapy is often best performed with skin-to-skin contact, but treatment can always be modified to work over clothing or sheets if desired.

You will be instructed to undress only to your comfort level. Most patients choose to fully disrobe, but it is always your choice.

Sheets and blankets are provided for privacy, and only the area being treated will be uncovered during the session.

Yes—when clinically appropriate and with your consent.

Deep tissue massage is one technique within massage therapy used to address deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. Pressure is always adjusted to your comfort.

At the start of treatment, your RMT will establish a pain scale with you and check in throughout the session.

We also provide access to both hot and cold applications, depending on your condition. Your therapist may recommend safe home use options and may perform a small test patch to ensure no adverse reaction.

Massage therapy should never be excessively painful.

Massage therapy is commonly used to treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including:

Pain & Mobility Issues

• Neck, shoulder, and back pain
• Hip, knee, and joint stiffness
• Postural strain from desk or computer work

Injury Rehabilitation

• Sports injuries
• Work-related and repetitive strain injuriess
• Motor vehicle accident injuries
• Post-surgical soft tissue recovery

Chronic Conditions

• Sciatica and nerve-related pain
• Arthritis
• Tendonitis
• Fibromyalgia
• Chronic headaches and TMJ dysfunction

Our RMTs are trained in TMJ treatment, including intraoral massage (performed with gloves) when indicated. A full assessment is completed beforehand, and clear communication is maintained throughout treatment.

Yes. Massage therapy is safe when provided by a trained RMT and adapted appropriately.

Children

There is no age requirement but confirm when booking that your therapist is comfortable treating your child's age.

A guardian must provide consent and, depending on the age, may be required to be present.

Pregnancy

Prenatal massage is adapted with proper positioning, supportive pillows, and modified techniques to relieve back, hip, and muscle discomfort.

Medications

Always inform your RMT of any medications, vitamins, or over-the-counter drugs. Treatment can be modified accordingly. Avoid taking pain medication immediately before treatment, as it may affect pressure tolerance.

How Often Should I Get Massage Therapy?

Your RMT will recommend a plan based on your condition, recovery goals, and progress.

General guidelines:

• Acute injury: 2x/ week or weekly
• Chronic conditions: every 2–4 weeks
• Wellness/maintenance: monthly

Home care exercises also play a major role in long-term results.