FAQs

Massage therapy is a hands-on treatment that involves the manipulation of soft tissues in the body, including muscles, tendons, ligaments, and connective tissues. It is performed by trained, highly qualified professionals called massage therapists, to promote relaxation, reduce muscle tension, relieve pain, and improve overall well-being.

Massage therapy offers a range of benefits, including:

• Relaxation and stress reduction
• Relief from muscle tension and pain
• Improved circulation and lymphatic drainage
• Enhanced joint flexibility and range of motion
• Accelerated recovery from injuries or surgeries
• Alleviation of headaches and migraines
• Improved sleep quality
• Boosted immune system function

The duration of a massage therapy session can vary depending on individual needs and preferences. Standard sessions often last between 60 and 90 minutes, but shorter or longer sessions can be arranged.

During a massage therapy session, you can expect to lie on a comfortable massage table while the therapist applies various techniques to your body’s soft tissues. The therapist may use their hands, fingers, forearms, elbows, or specialized tools to deliver the massage. You may be asked to undress partially or fully, depending on your comfort level, and the therapist will ensure your privacy and modesty are maintained throughout the session.

Massage therapy should generally not be painful, although some techniques or deeper work may cause temporary discomfort. It is essential to communicate with your massage therapist about your comfort level, any specific areas of concern, and the desired pressure intensity. Open communication allows the therapist to adjust their techniques to ensure a positive and effective experience.

In most cases, a referral is not required to see a massage therapist. However, certain healthcare plans or insurance providers may have specific requirements, so it’s best to check with your insurance company or healthcare provider to determine if a referral is needed for coverage purposes.

It’s important to seek a registered massage therapist who has completed the necessary education and training requirements. You can find qualified practitioners by contacting MTAM or the local massage therapy association in your province, asking for recommendations from friends or healthcare providers, or researching reputable massage therapy clinics in your area.

Yes. The Act applies to public, private, and non-profit organizations in all work settings (i.e., massage therapy clinics, home-based or mobile practices, and solo practitioners).

As a member of the public, if you have a disability, you should expect that the massage therapy organization/place of business you attend has met the applicable Standards within the Act.

Yes. MTAM has created a sample plan/policy available exclusively to MTAM members and available in the members-only section of the MTAM website.

The Disability Issues Office has created an Employer Handbook and an Employee Tips sheet to aid organizations in creating the necessary policies and documents for their business. For those businesses with contractors rather than employees, additional resources are available from Workplace Safety and Health.

For more information, please read the Government of Manitoba FAQ document or contact the Disability Issues Office directly at (204) 945-7613. For more free online resources and information about Manitoba’s accessibility legislation, visit Accessibility Manitoba.

Receipts must be issued in the patient’s name to avoid insurance fraud.

Receipts should accurately reflect the purchase, and insurance does not cover gift card purchases.

Receipts cannot be altered and must reflect the actual date of service.

Insurance does not cover missed or canceled appointments.

Overcharging the insurance company is not allowed, and rates should be consistent for all clients.

Pre-paid appointments are not billable to insurance, and receipts must reflect the actual date of service.

Insurance does not cover tips, but referrals are greatly appreciated.

If a prescription is required by your insurance, it must be issued before or on the date of the massage.

Receipts should accurately represent the treatment received, and billing for services outside the scope of massage therapy is not allowed.

It is not ethical or legal to submit claims for treatments that were not performed.

You have a right to view or obtain a copy of any personal health information from your health care provider including your RMT. To access your health information you must fill out the PHIA patient access request form and present it to your RMT.

The Massage Therapy Association of Manitoba (MTAM) is a professional association representing registered massage therapists (RMTs) in Manitoba, Canada. MTAM works to advance the massage therapy profession, provide support to RMTs, and promote public awareness of the benefits of massage therapy.

To become a member of MTAM, you must be a qualified massage therapist in Manitoba. Membership applications can be completed online or through the association’s administrative office. The application process typically requires submitting the necessary documentation, meeting eligibility criteria, and paying the applicable membership fees.

MTAM membership offers various benefits, including professional recognition, access to continuing education and professional development opportunities, networking and collaboration with peers, insurance coverage options, marketing, and referral opportunities, guidance on regulatory compliance, research resources, community engagement, and exclusive discounts on products and services.

Membership fees for MTAM can vary depending on the membership category and any additional services or benefits included. Contact our administrative office for detailed and up-to-date information about membership fees.

Yes, MTAM offers liability insurance coverage options for its members. These insurance plans are designed to protect RMTs in the event of any unforeseen incidents or claims related to their massage therapy practice. MTAM members can access competitive rates for professional liability insurance through the association.

Yes, MTAM provides a range of continuing education courses and professional development opportunities for RMTs. These courses cover various topics such as massage techniques and modalities, client assessment, business skills, ethics, and more. MTAM members have access to workshops, seminars, webinars, and other educational resources to enhance their skills and knowledge.

MTAM offers volunteer opportunities for members interested in getting involved and making a positive impact in the massage therapy community. These opportunities may include committee and Board positions, event support, mentorship programs, community outreach, research initiatives, and more. Contact our administrative office to learn about current volunteer opportunities.