Massage Therapy Burlington
Massage Therapy is an effective tool in treating soft tissue injuries, overuse injuries, and chronic pain.
By using different massage techniques, the therapist can help you recover from injury, or just feel more relaxed. Below is some general information about Burlington massage therapy. If you have any further questions about how you may benefit from it, please do not hesitate to contact us.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Types of massage include: therapeutic, relaxation, sports massage, and deep tissue, all of which are done at varying depths and speed. Your treatment plan may also include hydrotherapy (ice or heat), remedial exercise, such as stretching and strengthening, and electrical modalities if the therapist is qualified.
Registered massage therapists are able to perform acupuncture, as long as they meet the standards set out by the regulating body in the province. These treatments are billed as massage therapy.
Massage therapy is a two year program at accredited institutions across the province. Massage is a regulated health profession in Ontario and is controlled by the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario.
Massage Therapists are required to complete a certification exam, consisting of written, oral and practical portions. A Registered Massage Therapist must provide annual documentation of on-going professional development to maintain their status with their college.
Low back pain, Whiplash, Muscles strains, Migraines and headaches, Arthritis, Sports injuries, Stress, Repetitive strain injuries, Postural related stiffness and discomfort, Surgery (hip and knee replacement, fracture repair).
During your first massage therapy session, there are a few things you can expect to help you feel more comfortable and prepared. The session usually starts with a brief conversation. Your massage therapist at Burlington Sports Therapy will ask about your health history, any injuries, chronic pain or areas of discomfort. They may also ask what you hope to achieve with the session, whether it be relaxation, pain relief or muscle tension release. Your massage therapist will ask about your pressure preference, whether you want a light, moderate or deep pressure massage and which area of your body you would like them to focus on. You can also let them know if there are any areas you would prefer they avoid. The treatment rooms at Burlington Sports Therapy will typically be quiet, dimly lit and may have soothing music to create a calm environment. Your massage therapist may also use essential oils or lotions to enhance the experience, but you can let them know if you have any allergies. You will be asked to undress to your level of comfort, but typically, you should remove your clothes to your underwear, especially if you are receiving a full-body massage. Towels or sheets will be provided for draping, ensuring that only the areas being worked on are exposed at any given time. You should feel completely comfortable throughout your treatment. Your massage therapist will be working on your muscles using various techniques such as kneading, long strokes or circular movements. The pressure should feel comfortable, but if at any point it’s too much, you can ask your registered massage therapist to adjust the pressure. Throughout the session, it is important to communicate with your massage therapist. If something feels uncomfortable or painful, speak up. If something feels particularly good, let them know so they can focus on that area. Sessions typically last between 30 – 90 minutes, depending on the type of massage you’ve scheduled and what you’ve agreed on with the therapist. After your massage session at Burlington Sports Therapy, your massage therapist may give you tips on how to take care of yourself, such as staying hydrated or stretching. You might feel relaxed or even a bit sore afterwards, but this usually passes after a day or two.
For your massage, you’ll typically want to wear something that’s comfortable and easy to remove, depending on the type of massage you’re getting. Most people wear underwear, but you can also wear a pair of loose-fitting shorts or a sports bra if you are more comfortable with that. You will be draped with a towel or sheet throughout, so it is important to feel relaxed in what you choose to wear. If you prefer to wear clothing, choose something comfortable like stretchy leggings, a tank top or a loose t-shirt. For a facial massage or head/neck massage, wear something that will let your shoulders and neck be easily accessible. A loose top, button-up shirt, or something with a low neckline can work well. If you are unsure, you can always ask the Burlington Sports Therapy administration team beforehand.
Yes, massage therapy can be really helpful for managing stress and anxiety! It has several benefits that can promote relaxation and emotional well-being. Massage helps to relax muscles and reduce tension, which can naturally lead to a decrease in physical stress. When your body is relaxed, it can ease the mental strain, too. Studies show that massage therapy can lower levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, in the body. Lower cortisol levels often result in a more relaxed state and reduce feelings of anxiety. Massage can stimulate the release of serotonin and dopamine, the “feel good” neurotransmitters that can elevate mood and promote a sense of calm and happiness. Stress and anxiety often lead to poor sleep, but regular massage can help improve sleep quality, which, in turn, helps to reduce stress levels. During a massage, the focus on the present moment can be a form of mindfulness that allows the mind to take a break from work and racing thoughts. While massage therapy can definitely help, it’s best to use it as part of a broader approach that includes things like regular exercise, healthy sleep habits, and possibly therapy or counselling for more intense cases of anxiety or stress.
If you are in the Burlington, Oakville, Hamilton and surrounding areas and are in need of Massage Therapy, contact Burlington Sports Therapy today. We are conveniently located just off of Walkers Line on Harvester Road.
Massage therapy can be helpful for people of all ages: infants, teens, seniors, and all ages in between.
Some of the benefits include: decreased muscle pain and spasm, increased circulation, increased range of motion, decreased adhesions and general relaxation. If you live in the Burlington, Oakville, Hamilton and surrounding areas and would like more information or would like to book an appointment with one of our Registered Massage Therapists, please call 905-220-7858, or e-mail us at info@burlingtonsportstherapy.com
How often you should receive massage therapy depends on your individual needs and goals. For general relaxation or stress relief, once or twice a month can help maintain a sense of calm and prevent tension from building up. For pain management or injury recovery, you might benefit from more frequent sessions, such as once a week or biweekly, especially if you are working on a specific injury or dealing with chronic pain. For athletic performance and physical activity, weekly or biweekly sessions can help with muscle recovery and flexibility. For maintenance and overall well-being, a monthly session may be sufficient if you’re generally healthy but want to maintain flexibility and relaxation. Ultimately, it depends on your body’s response to therapy. If you’re unsure, it’s a good idea to discuss your needs with your massage therapist to create a schedule that works for you.
Yes, there are several conditions where massage therapy may be inadvisable or should be approached with caution. If you have recent fractures, sprains or strains, massage can sometimes exacerbate the injury or slow the healing process, it’s generally best to wait until the acute phase has passed. Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout or severe soft tissue inflammation can be temporarily aggravated by massage. Gentile techniques or even avoiding massage until the inflammation subsides may be necessary. If you have skin infections, open wounds, or any conditions like cellulitis, it’s crucial to avoid massage to prevent spreading the infection or worsening the condition. While massage can be beneficial for cancer patients in many cases, certain types of massage or pressure should be avoided, especially if there are tumors, metastasis or active treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation that can make the body more sensitive. It’s essential to consult a health care provider first. Conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or blood clotting disorders can be aggravated by massage, potentially leading to the clot dislodging and travelling to vital organs like the lungs. While massage during pregnancy can be very helpful, certain positions or techniques, such as deep tissue, should be avoided, especially during the first trimester or if there are pregnancy-related complications. Certain heart conditions, such as congestive heart failure, may require modifications to the type of massage use. Deep pressure may also be risky for some individuals with high blood pressure or heart disease. Nerve disorders or conditions like herniated discs or sciatica can benefit from massage, but sometimes massage may worsen nerve compression if not done properly. Severe osteoporosis patients should avoid deep pressure massage as it can pose a risk of fracturing fragile bones. If you are sick, especially with a fever or contagious illness, massage is generally not recommended as it can place additional strain on the body. It is always wise to consult your health care provider before starting massage therapy if you have any of these conditions. They can guide whether massage is safe and what type might be appropriate for your situation.
The main difference between relaxation massage and therapeutic massage lies in their purpose, techniques, and outcomes. Relaxation massage is primarily aimed at helping the client relax, reduce stress and promote general well-being. It’s more about comfort and easing tension, typically for people who are looking to unwind. Therapeutic massage focuses on treating specific physical issues such as chronic pain, injury recovery, muscle stiffness or other health-related concerns. It can involve more targeted techniques to address problem areas. Relaxation massage often uses gentle, soothing techniques like long strokes, kneading and light pressure to promote relaxation. Therapeutic massage can include a wider variety of techniques, such as deep tissue, myofascial release, or trigger point therapy. It often involves more pressure and may trigger specific muscles or areas of tension that are causing pain or discomfort. Relaxation massage helps to reduce stress and improve emotional well-being by calming the nervous system. It is great for overall relaxation, but doesn’t necessarily address specific injuries or conditions. Therapeutic massage aims to relieve pain, improve range of motion, and speed up recovery from injuries or muscle strain. It can be a part of a treatment plan for rehabilitation or managing long-term muscle tension. In short, relaxation massage is more about stress relief and general relaxation, while therapeutic massage is more targeted and focused on healing or addressing physical issues.
Yes, massage therapy can play a helpful role in post-surgical recovery, but it’s important to approach it carefully and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Massage can help increase blood flow to the affected area, which promotes healing by delivering more oxygen and nutrients to tissues and removing metabolic waste products. Post-surgery, there can be discomfort or chronic pain. Massage can help reduce this pain through techniques that relax muscles and release tension, as well as through the activation of natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body, like endorphins. Swelling is common after surgery. Certain massage techniques, like lymphatic drainage massage, can help reduce this swelling by improving the movement of lymph fluid and reducing fluid retention. Massage can also be used to break down scar tissue and adhesions that can form during the healing process. This can improve mobility and flexibility in the affected area over time. Recovering from surgery can be physically and mentally taxing. Massage therapy is known to promote relaxation and reduce stress, which can support overall recovery. However, it’s essential to wait until you’ve fully healed in the initial phase and consult with your doctor or therapist before starting massage. Depending on the type of surgery, certain techniques or areas might need to be avoided or adjusted.
Yes, it’s normal to feel sore after a massage, especially if it was deep tissue or focused on tense areas. Your muscles might feel sore because they’ve been worked on to release tension, which can cause micro-tears in the muscle fibers, similar to what happens after a good workout. This soreness usually fades within a day or two. To help ease any discomfort, you can drink plenty of water, take a warm bath or shower or do gentle stretching if recommended by your massage therapist. If the soreness is very intense or lasts for more than a few days, it might be a good idea to contact the massage therapist to discuss what happened or see if a gentler approach would be better next time.
Choosing the right massage therapist is important to ensure you get the best possible experience and benefits. Are you seeking relaxation, pain relief, stress reduction, injury recovery, or specific muscle tension relief? Different therapists specialize in different areas, so knowing your goals helps you find the right match. If you have specific pain or muscle tightness, deep tissue or trigger point therapy might be better. If you’re recovering from an injury, a therapist trained in sports massage or myofascial release could be a great choice. Massage therapists must be licensed to practice, which ensures they’ve met certain educational standards. At Burlington Sports Therapy, all of our massage therapists are registered massage therapists with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario.
Types of massage include: therapeutic, relaxation, sports massage, and deep tissue, all of which are done at varying depths and speed. Your treatment plan may also include hydrotherapy (ice or heat), remedial exercise, such as stretching and strengthening, and electrical modalities if the therapist is qualified.
Registered massage therapists are able to perform acupuncture, as long as they meet the standards set out by the regulating body in the province. These treatments are billed as massage therapy.
Massage Therapists are required to complete a certification exam, consisting of written, oral and practical portions. A Registered Massage Therapist must provide annual documentation of on-going professional development to maintain their status with their college.
Low back pain, Whiplash, Muscles strains, Migraines and headaches, Arthritis, Sports injuries, Stress, Repetitive strain injuries, Postural related stiffness and discomfort, Surgery (hip and knee replacement, fracture repair).
Some of the benefits include: decreased muscle pain and spasm, increased circulation, Increased range of motion, decreased adhesions and general relaxation. If you live in the Burlington, Oakville, Hamilton and surrounding areas and would like more information or would like to book an appointment with one of our Registered Massage Therapists, please call 905-220-7858, or e-mail us at info@burlingtonsportstherapy.com
During your first massage therapy session, there are a few things you can expect to help you feel more comfortable and prepared. The session usually starts with a brief conversation. Your massage therapist at Burlington Sports Therapy will ask about your health history, any injuries, chronic pain or areas of discomfort. They may also ask what you hope to achieve with the session, whether it be relaxation, pain relief or muscle tension release. Your massage therapist will ask about your pressure preference, whether you want a light, moderate or deep pressure massage and which area of your body you would like them to focus on. You can also let them know if there are any areas you would prefer they avoid. The treatment rooms at Burlington Sports Therapy will typically be quiet, dimly lit and may have soothing music to create a calm environment. Your massage therapist may also use essential oils or lotions to enhance the experience, but you can let them know if you have any allergies. You will be asked to undress to your level of comfort, but typically, you should remove your clothes to your underwear, especially if you are receiving a full-body massage. Towels or sheets will be provided for draping, ensuring that only the areas being worked on are exposed at any given time. You should feel completely comfortable throughout your treatment. Your massage therapist will be working on your muscles using various techniques such as kneading, long strokes or circular movements. The pressure should feel comfortable, but if at any point it’s too much, you can ask your registered massage therapist to adjust the pressure. Throughout the session, it is important to communicate with your massage therapist. If something feels uncomfortable or painful, speak up. If something feels particularly good, let them know so they can focus on that area. Sessions typically last between 30 – 90 minutes, depending on the type of massage you’ve scheduled and what you’ve agreed on with the therapist. After your massage session at Burlington Sports Therapy, your massage therapist may give you tips on how to take care of yourself, such as staying hydrated or stretching. You might feel relaxed or even a bit sore afterwards, but this usually passes after a day or two.
For your massage, you’ll typically want to wear something that’s comfortable and easy to remove, depending on the type of massage you’re getting. Most people wear underwear, but you can also wear a pair of loose-fitting shorts or a sports bra if you are more comfortable with that. You will be draped with a towel or sheet throughout, so it is important to feel relaxed in what you choose to wear. If you prefer to wear clothing, choose something comfortable like stretchy leggings, a tank top or a loose t-shirt. For a facial massage or head/neck massage, wear something that will let your shoulders and neck be easily accessible. A loose top, button-up shirt, or something with a low neckline can work well. If you are unsure, you can always ask the Burlington Sports Therapy administration team beforehand.
Yes, massage therapy can be really helpful for managing stress and anxiety! It has several benefits that can promote relaxation and emotional well-being. Massage helps to relax muscles and reduce tension, which can naturally lead to a decrease in physical stress. When your body is relaxed, it can ease the mental strain too. Studies show that massage therapy can lower levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, in the body. Lower cortisol levels often result in a more relaxed state and reduce feelings of anxiety. Massage can stimulate the release of serotonin and dopamine, the “feel good” neurotransmitters that can elevate mood and promote a sense of calm and happiness. Stress and anxiety often lead to poor sleep, but regular massage can help improve sleep quality, which, in turn, helps to reduce stress levels. During a massage, the focus on the present moment can be a form of mindfulness that allows the mind to take a break from work and racing thoughts. While massage therapy can definitely help, it’s best to use it as part of a broader approach that includes things like regular exercise, healthy sleep habits, and possibly therapy or counselling for more intense cases of anxiety or stress.
How often you should receive massage therapy depends on your individual needs and goals. For general relaxation or stress relief, once or twice a month can help maintain a sense of calm and prevent tension from building up. For pain management or injury recovery, you might benefit from more frequent sessions, such as once a week or biweekly, especially if you are working on a specific injury or dealing with chronic pain. For athletic performance and physical activity, weekly or biweekly sessions can help with muscle recovery and flexibility. For maintenance and overall well-being, a monthly session may be sufficient if you’re generally healthy but want to maintain flexibility and relaxation. Ultimately, it depends on your body’s response to therapy. If you’re unsure, it’s a good idea to discuss your needs with your massage therapist to create a schedule that works for you.
Yes, there are several conditions where massage therapy may be inadvisable or should be approached with caution. If you have recent fractures, sprains or strains, massage can sometimes exacerbate the injury or slow the healing process, it’s generally best to wait until the acute phase has passed. Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout or severe soft tissue inflammation can be temporarily aggravated by massage. Gentile techniques or even avoiding massage until the inflammation subsides may be necessary. If you have skin infections, open wounds, or any conditions like cellulitis, it’s crucial to avoid massage to prevent spreading the infection or worsening the condition. While massage can be beneficial for cancer patients in many cases, certain types of massage or pressure should be avoided, especially if there are tumors, metastasis or active treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation that can make the body more sensitive. It’s essential to consult a health care provider first. Conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or blood clotting disorders can be aggravated by massage, potentially leading to the clot dislodging and travelling to vital organs like the lungs. While massage during pregnancy can be very helpful, certain positions or techniques, such as deep tissue, should be avoided, especially during the first trimester or if there are pregnancy-related complications. Certain heart conditions, such as congestive heart failure, may require modifications to the type of massage use. Deep pressure may also be risky for some individuals with high blood pressure or heart disease. Nerve disorders or conditions like herniated discs or sciatica can benefit from massage, but sometimes massage may worsen nerve compression if not done properly. Severe osteoporosis patients should avoid deep pressure massage as it can pose a risk of fracturing fragile bones. If you are sick, especially with a fever or contagious illness, massage is generally not recommended as it can place additional strain on the body. It is always wise to consult your health care provider before starting massage therapy if you have any of these conditions. They can guide whether massage is safe and what type might be appropriate for your situation.
The main difference between relaxation massage and therapeutic massage lies in their purpose, techniques, and outcomes. Relaxation massage is primarily aimed at helping the client relax, reduce stress and promote general well-being. It’s more about comfort and easing tension, typically for people who are looking to unwind. Therapeutic massage focuses on treating specific physical issues such as chronic pain, injury recovery, muscle stiffness or other health-related concerns. It can involve more targeted techniques to address problem areas. Relaxation massage often uses gentle, soothing techniques like long strokes, kneading and light pressure to promote relaxation. Therapeutic massage can include a wider variety of techniques, such as deep tissue, myofascial release, or trigger point therapy. It often involves more pressure and may trigger specific muscles or areas of tension that are causing pain or discomfort. Relaxation massage helps to reduce stress and improve emotional well-being by calming the nervous system. It is great for overall relaxation, but doesn’t necessarily address specific injuries or conditions. Therapeutic massage aims to relieve pain, improve range of motion, and speed up recovery from injuries or muscle strain. It can be a part of a treatment plan for rehabilitation or managing long-term muscle tension. In short, relaxation massage is more about stress relief and general relaxation, while therapeutic massage is more targeted and focused on healing or addressing physical issues.
Yes, massage therapy can play a helpful role in post-surgical recovery, but it’s important to approach it carefully and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Massage can help increase blood flow to the affected area, which promotes healing by delivering more oxygen and nutrients to tissues and removing metabolic waste products. Post-surgery, there can be discomfort or chronic pain. Massage can help reduce this pain through techniques that relax muscles and release tension, as well as through the activation of natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body, like endorphins. Swelling is common after surgery. Certain massage techniques, like lymphatic drainage massage, can help reduce this swelling by improving the movement of lymph fluid and reducing fluid retention. Massage can also be used to break down scar tissue and adhesions that can form during the healing process. This can improve mobility and flexibility in the affected area over time. Recovering from surgery can be physically and mentally taxing. Massage therapy is known to promote relaxation and reduce stress, which can support overall recovery. However, it’s essential to wait until you’ve fully healed in the initial phase and consult with your doctor or therapist before starting massage. Depending on the type of surgery, certain techniques or areas might need to be avoided or adjusted.
Yes, it’s normal to feel sore after a massage, especially if it was deep tissue or focused on tense areas. Your muscles might feel sore because they’ve been worked on to release tension, which can cause micro-tears in the muscle fibers, similar to what happens after a good workout. This soreness usually fades within a day or two. To help ease any discomfort, you can drink plenty of water, take a warm bath or shower or do gentle stretching if recommended by your massage therapist. If the soreness is very intense or lasts for more than a few days, it might be a good idea to contact the massage therapist to discuss what happened or see if a gentler approach would be better next time.
Choosing the right massage therapist is important to ensure you get the best possible experience and benefits. Are you seeking relaxation, pain relief, stress reduction, injury recovery, or specific muscle tension relief? Different therapists specialize in different areas, so knowing your goals helps you find the right match. If you have specific pain or muscle tightness, deep tissue or trigger point therapy might be better. If you’re recovering from an injury, a therapist trained in sports massage or myofascial release could be a great choice. Massage therapists must be licensed to practice, which ensures they’ve met certain educational standards. At Burlington Sports Therapy, all of our massage therapists are registered massage therapists with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario.
If you are in the Burlington, Oakville, Hamilton and surrounding areas and are in need of Massage Therapy, contact Burlington Sports Therapy today. We are conveniently located just off of Walkers Line on Harvester Road.
Do Children Need Massage Therapy?
Rocket Digital2025-04-17T15:31:06-04:00November 11, 2015|
Many people view massage as a relaxation treatment, but it is also a therapeutic modality that can be highly beneficial [...]
Back Pain and Neck Pain in Burlington
Rocket Digital2023-11-27T10:40:47-05:00August 4, 2013|
It seems that the longer I’m in practise, the more I appreciate the negative impact prolonged sitting can have on [...]
Chiropractic, Physiotherapy, Osteopathy and Massage in Ontario
Rocket Digital2023-06-20T10:12:07-04:00September 30, 2012|
Chiropractors, physiotherapists, osteopaths, massage therapists…the options can be confusing. Quite often I have patients ask me about the differences between [...]
Everything about Burlington Sports Therapy is worth going for. I had the opportunity to attend at the clinic for two separate injuries and am grateful for their expertise. Dr. Kevin McIntyre is punctual, kind, casual and amazingly professional. He has a wealth of knowledge, takes the time to explain all of his findings to you and is also humble enough to take a step back where he feels additional tests (X-rays/bloodwork) are necessary or to have other professionals in the clinic work with you. Whatever works best for “you” and your injury is what this team is willing to make happen. Joyce (at the front desk) is amazing and will do whatever she can to help you get in for appts around your schedule. Thanks Kevin and team!!!!
Let us help you reach your
full potential
Contact us today to book an appointment
