Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our massage therapy services, what to expect, and how massage can help you.

Yes, you can get a massage if you are already in paint. With the right pressure, massage therapy can have a direct effect on the circulatory system, which will help reduce inflammation and help to relieve pain. However, it is very important and encouraged that you communicate with your massage therapist about your pain or comfort level at any time during your massage.

If you have chronic muscle problems such as soreness, injury, or imbalance, deep tissue massage can be a great option despite current ongoing pain prior to the massage. Deep tissue massage therapy can help relieve tight muscles, chronic muscle pain, and anxiety.

Massage therapy treatments are not covered under OHIP, regardless of whether the treatments are provided by a Registered Massage Therapist directly or by a physician.

However, many private insurance companies provide full or partial coverage under extended health care plans. Contact your employer or insurance provider for more information regarding your coverage. You may have massage therapy covered without knowing and have been missing out on the opportunity to take advantage of it!

Massages can vary in technique depending on the kind that is being performed. It is very important that you communicate with your massage therapist on how much pressure the therapist delivers. No matter what kind of massage you get, the massage should feel nice and relaxing, and never hurt. Even a massage like deep tissue, where there is generally more pressure, should feel good. Always feel open to voice your preference for pressure before and during the massage. With this being stated, certain techniques like trigger point therapy can feel uncomfortable at times but you are always in control of the amount of pressure. A massage starts with you laying face down with your face in a cradle so you don't strain your neck. You are usually naked underneath a towel or sheet, but you can wear underwear or anything that makes you feel comfortable. The first touch of the massage will be gentle, not a surprise. With warm hands, massage oil will be used so that the massage therapists' hands will glide smoothly over your skin. From here, there will be a combination of massage strokes to work the muscle tissue including:
  • Smooth, gliding strokes to warm the muscle tissue of the targeted area. This can be done slowly or more quickly, with slower being more relaxing and quicker more invigorating.
  • Kneading the muscle tissue by pulling and lifting the soft muscle away from bone structure. This is done to work the tissue more deeply.
  • Targeting a particular trouble spot to separate the tissues, make the muscle softer and restore circulation. This can be done with thumb or fingers, or elbows for a more intense feel. Depending on how much pressure is used and how you interpret the sensation, this can feel good or a bit uncomfortable. Remember to communicate!
  • Passive stretching can be done to mobilize the joint, such as moving your arm over your head.
The best way to figure out what a massage feels like and what massage style you may like the most, is to try it for yourself!

The ideal frequency depends on your individual needs, goals, lifestyle, and budget. For general wellness and stress reduction, once a month might be sufficient. For managing chronic pain or recovering from injury, weekly or bi-weekly sessions may be more beneficial initially, tapering off as symptoms improve. Your therapist can discuss a recommended treatment plan with you.

Matchedash Massage Therapy will work with you to establish a massage therapy schedule that fits your lifestyle and physical needs. Your recovery is our priority.

To see a Registered Massage Therapist you do not need a doctor's referral, however some insurance companies do require one in order to be covered by your extended health care benefits. You need to check with your policy to see if you need one to be reimbursed for the treatments.

There are many benefits that regular massage therapy treatments offer. Whether your need is to have a moment of relaxation and stress relief, reduce muscle tension or have relief from chronic pain, a therapeutic massage can enhance your overall sense of emotional and physical well-being.

Massage therapy can be an important part of your health maintenance plan by:
  • Reducing or eliminating pain.
  • Improving joint mobility.
  • Improving circulation.
  • Improving lymphatic drainage.
  • Reducing muscular tension.
Registered massage Therapy can be used for a wide variety of patients, of all ages, in the treatment of illness, injury rehabilitation and disability.

The results of massage therapy are usually seen early in treatment. Some people experience pain relief and improved mobility after only one treatment, but usually results are seen after just two or three sessions. Many factors can determining how quickly you will see results - including the severity of your injury or condition and your overall health upon beginning treatment.