How to find a massage therapist

Looking for a massage therapist in Winnipeg? Here are some tips to help you find the right one.
Jul 10, 2009 | By: The Health Local Staff

You know what it’s like when you’ve got a sore, aching back, neck or shoulders. You’d do anything to find relief. But if you think popping pills is the answer, you might want to consider the dangers of taking too many medications and look at massage therapy instead.

Unlike popping too many pain killers, which can cause damage to the lining of the stomach, massage therapy is a drug-free way to help ease pain and return mobility after suffering an injury. What’s more, regular massage therapy can also help prevent injuries and keep you healthy – a great reason to enjoy a regular indulgence.

At the same time, there are lots of massage therapists around, which makes choosing the right one a bit tricky. Here are a few tips to help you get started finding the perfect massage therapist.

First, you need to ensure you see a registered massage therapist, or RMT. Unlike getting a “relaxation” massage at a spa, seeing an RMT means you are seeing someone who is trained in more than just massage techniques. An RMT is also trained in anatomy, physiology, pathology and much more, and can help you identify the cause of an injury and take an active role in your treatment and recovery.

Next, list your requirements in a massage therapist, which can include:

• Location
• Hours of service
• Gender
• Method of payment (i.e. do they bill your benefits provider directly? Do they accept cash, credit cards and/or debit cards?)

Once you’ve listed your needs, ask your family, friends, co-workers, family doctor or other health care practitioners if they can recommend a good massage therapist. Next, try doing a search on Health Local to find a massage therapist in your area. The massage therapist’s Gold Listing or website will have information (including website links) to help you determine if that person meets your requirements.

Most extended health care benefits plans cover the cost of massage therapy, although some plans may require you obtain a doctor’s note.  Be sure to check with the massage therapist to ensure he or she is registered and you can submit the invoices to your benefits provider.

Finally, start calling a few massage therapists on your list and see if you can book an appointment. If you’re unsure, ask if the therapist offers a consultation so you can meet ahead of time and decide if this massage therapist is the right one for you.