by Randy Persad, RMT,
Director of Massage Therapy, Spa Utopia & Salons

Massage Therapy in the Spa - A Regulated Health Care Profession in British Columbia

Massage therapy is the number one requested service in the spa industry. Relaxation massage, a deep tissue session, managing a sport injury or for addressing discomforts of pregnancy the registered massage therapist (RMT) is the practitioner of choice. The practice of massage therapy is often described as bodywork, although partly true, this article will highlight important differences between massage therapy and bodywork.

Massage therapy in British Columbia is legislated by the government under the B.C. Health Profession Act (HPA) and has been a regulated health care profession since 1946. The College of Massage Therapists of British Columbia (CMTBC) - is the profession’s equivalent to the College of Physicians and Surgeons and govern RMT’s in BC. The CMTBC establishes, imposes, and closely monitors standards of education, qualifications and the quality of practice for all RMTs, thereby ensuring safe and ethical health care to the public.

Bodywork is a broad term used to describe many practices that utilize manual (hands on) techniques on the body. Techniques often referred to as bodywork include acupressure, shiatsu, rolfing, trager, aroma-massage, energy work, movement therapies, and other therapies that induce relaxation, increase circulation and aids in managing pain and muscular stiffness.

Massage therapy- Definition and training in British Columbia:
The practice of massage therapy is the assessment [and diagnosis] of soft tissue and joints of the body and the treatment and prevention of dysfunction, injury, pain and physical disorders of the soft tissues and joints by manual and physical methods to develop, maintain, rehabilitate or augment physical function to relieve pain and promote health

Massage therapy students must complete at least 3,000 hours (3 years) of training at an accredited teaching college. Course studies include subjects such as anatomy, physiology, pathology, kinesiology, neuro-anatomy, hydrotherapy, professional development, therapeutic exercises and rehabilitation, and research methodology to name a few. In addition, several hundred hours of clinical internship must be successfully completed during the training program. To obtain a license to practice the student therapist must them successfully pass the examinations conducted by the CMTBC.