Services

Massage

At PhysioWorks, our registered massage therapists can help with a variety of conditions from headaches, neck and back tensions, to recovering from your latest race.

What is massage?

Massage therapy is a regulated healthcare profession which focuses on soft-tissue manipulation and skeletal alignment to enhance muscle performance and promote relaxation of the body’s nervous system. It is a natural form of therapy that promotes healing, circulation, and waste reduction in tissues. Our massage therapists utilize a variety of techniques to treat movement dysfunctions, injuries, and neurological symptoms. Massage therapy complements physiotherapy well as it reduces mind and body tension which enhances biomechanical function.

Your first appointment

After completing your intake forms you will be taken into your private room where your massage therapist will begin the initial assessment. This may include a variety of motion testing and postural analysis.

The therapist will then leave the room to wash their hands while you undress and situate yourself on the table. The state of undress will depend on client comfort, typically people undress to undergarments, but you will be modestly covered. Some wear sports attire. All of this can be discussed with your therapist and please know that we are used to various comfort levels.

The therapist will then re-enter the room and begin the “hands on” portion of the treatment. Treatment ends with home care which can consist of exercises, stretches, and postural tips. Treatment goals and scheduling appointments will be discussed.

Treatment Techniques

Myofascial

A form of manual therapy which focuses on the deep connective tissue surrounding the body. Some stretching movements may be involved and pressure depth depends on which layers of tissue are being addressed

Deep Tissue

Referring to deeper layers of soft tissue with more applied pressure. Generally used with chronic injuries and hyper toned muscles.

Joint Mobilization

Manual therapy which focuses on correcting the placement and setting of the joints in order to align the skeletal system. Not a manipulation or “cracking” but a gentle movement of the bones at their joints. As alignment takes place surrounding muscles tend to relax and perform more efficiently.

Visceral

Manual therapy focusing on the body’s organs and their placement within the fascia as well as their relationship with neighbouring areas of the body. Subtle movements aiming to release any constrictions around organs in order to provide optimal function.

Craniosacral

Subtle techniques used to align the bones of the cranium, spinal column and down to the sacrum. Focus is on alignment in order to reduce stress and torsion within the nervous system

Massage FAQs

  • q: Can massage help with recent injuries or new pain?
    a:

    Yes, massage can help reduce inflammation, alleviate pain and relax the nervous system. An assessment will be done and depending on your injury we will alter pressure and positioning on the table accordingly. If more medical testing is indicated we will refer out to your doctor or may suggest physiotherapy for more biomechanical testing and acute care. The body has the ability to heal itself so you may need to simply rest for a few days before seeking extended health care but always see your doctor if you have questions.

  • q: Do I need to bring a sport clothing top for a massage?
    a:

    Typically we do not need you to bring anything extra to the appointment as we tend to treat directly on the skin and provide sheets and blankets for modesty. If a therapist wants to use more active techniques they can discuss attire with you for future visits.

  • q: Does massage hurt? Will I be sore?
    a:

    After a massage treatment clients can feel sore similar to post workout feeling. They can also feel very relaxed and tired after a treatment. Different bodies and injuries result in different outcomes but always feel free to discuss pressure and comfort with your therapist. Depending on the day’s activities and what your goals are we can always alter our style to fit your needs.

  • q: Can I workout after a massage?
    a:

    Typically yes but we may ask you to keep it light or get you to do specific exercises to maximize the benefit of treatment. Please discuss any planned activities with your therapist at the beginning of treatment so we may adjust techniques accordingly. Keeping hydrated after a massage is always recommended and if possible, rest.

Pricing

For Myofascial, Deep Tissue, Joint Mobilizations, Craniosacral, and Visceral.

45 min

RMT
$105

60 min

RMT
$130

45 min

Senior RMT
$110

60 min

Senior RMT
$135

* Prices are based on the experience level of each therapist and do not include taxes

We have a 24 hour cancellation policy. Any appointments cancelled within 24 hours or less will be charged the full amount of the appointment.

We may be able to direct bill some extended health plans if related to an existing illness or injury. Please check out the FAQ’s under about for a list of participating insurance companies.

Please note that many plans require a doctor’s referral be sent to them directly before they will cover registered massage therapy visits.

For ICBC claims, you are only covered for this service if you have made an injury claim and you are still within 12 weeks from your date of accident. If your appointment happens outside of coverage you will be charged the full amount of the appointment.

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