frequently asked questions

 

Is massage therapy covered by MSP?  

If you are eligible for Premium Assistance with the Medical Services Plan of BC, you may have some coverage of your massage therapy fees. Premium Assistance will pay $23 towards your massage therapy treatment, regardless of appointment length. You are required to pay the difference at the time of treatment. Please be aware that Premium Assistance covers a total of ten treatments per year from the following list: massage therapy, acupuncture, chiropractic, naturopathy, and physiotherapy and non surgical podiatry. Please inform your therapist if you have used, or are using, any other treatment modalities. Therapists cannot combine more than one allotted treatment per appointment.


How does billing work if I am referred by WorkSafe (WCB) or ICBC?  

Patients will pay for their treatment and submit the receipt to WorkSafe or ICBC for reimbursement. Please confirm your coverage prior to booking your first appointment if you have any questions or concerns.


Does my extended health insurance cover massage therapy?

The majority of health care plans cover massage therapy. Patients will pay for their treatment and submit the receipt to their insurance company for reimbursement. Please confirm your coverage prior to booking your first appointment if you have any questions or concerns.


Do I need a doctor’s referral?

No, you do not need a doctor’s referral, although some insurance plans require one for coverage. Please confirm your coverage prior to booking your first appointment if you have any questions or concerns.


Do I need to have something wrong to make an appointment?

No, you don’t need to have a specific problem to make an appointment. There are many health and preventative benefits to massage.


Is your office handicap accessible?

Yes, our parking is at the rear next to a wheelchair accessible ramp.


How long are the appointments?

The initial assessment appointment is one hour. Subsequent appointments are 30, 45, 60 or 90 minutes in length.


Do I need to get undressed?

You only need to undress to your comfort level. Patients are draped with sheets and blankets so that only the area being treated is uncovered.


What can I expect after treatment?

You can expect to feel very relaxed with a possibility of some tiredness for a period of 24 hours after treatment. Drink plenty of water after your massage therapy treatment to encourage hydration of the tissues and aid the kidneys in eliminating any toxins and metabolic wastes the massage may have released.

Can I have a massage while I am pregnant?

Massage therapy can be very beneficial for a pregnant woman. As the body rapidly undergoes change during pregnancy, massage can help to maintain comfort and address or prevent muscular issues. Massage therapy reduces stress and aids in relaxation which benefits both mom and babe. Massage treatments in pregnancy are done with the patient supported comfortably in a side lying position.


What happens during my first appointment?

  • You will be requested to fill out a health history form.

  • Prior to treatment, your health history will be discussed with your therapist.

  • Your therapist will explain how to prepare for the treatment.

  • Your therapist will leave the room.

  • You will disrobe to your comfort level.

  • Your therapist will re-enter when you are ready and the session will begin.

  • At the end of your treatment, your therapist may choose to discuss home care or remedial exercises. Subsequent treatment duration and frequency can be determined together with your therapist.

  • In the hours following a massage treatment, it is recommended to rest or restrict your activity, drink plenty of fluids and if you have the opportunity, to have a hot bath. These will enhance the relaxation benefits you have received.

  • It is not uncommon to feel slight discomfort or tenderness after a treatment within a 12-24 hour period. If you have concerns, please contact the clinic or your therapist.