Massage therapists (NOC 3236)

Massage therapists assess and treat soft tissues and joints of the body. Their work helps improve and maintain good health and treat pain from injuries and physical disorders. In B.C., all massage therapists are registered.

Watch the video below to see what a day in the life of a registered massage therapist is like.

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Registered massage therapist

Source: WorkBC's Career Trek

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In general, registered massage therapists (RMTs):

• Interview patients and take medical histories
• Assess patients using range-of-motion and muscle tests, muscle palpation, gait assessment and orthopedic testing
• Monitor vital signs
• Develop treatment plans
• Explain procedures, risks and benefits
• Use massage techniques such as hands-on soft tissue treatment, relaxation, hydrotherapy, joint play mobilizations and stretching
• Teach patients how to do at-home exercises
• Offer tips for daily living
• Keep records of treatments

RMTs may consult with other members of a patient’s health care team such as physiotherapists, chiropractors, physicians and psychologists. They may also refer patients to other health-care professionals.

Registered massage therapists (RMTs) often work in private practice, either on their own or as part of a team. Or they may work in hospitals, clinics that offer a variety of health-care services, extended care facilities, rehabilitation centres, sports organizations or educational institutions.

Many RMTs work a 35- to 40-hour week. Others work part time. Hours may include evenings and weekends, depending on office hours and patients’ needs. Emergencies can arise but do so less often than in other health-care fields.

The work can be physically demanding. RMTs work with their arms and hands, and they stand for long periods of time.

RMTs use computers for online booking, charting and billing, as well as for the online coursework required to stay certified.

Self-employed RMTs must spend part of their time managing their business, including booking appointments and doing accounting and laundry.

As the number of accredited schools in B.C. has increased, the supply of registered massage therapists (RMTs) has risen. The supply also continues to grow as massage therapists transfer to B.C. from other provinces.

Demand for RMTs has also grown, as more spas open and new rules let patients visit RMTs without a doctor’s referral. Demand is expected to increase further as the economy grows.

Rural and isolated areas of central and northern B.C. will likely have the highest need for RMTs.