A registered massage therapist (RMT) in Vancouver must undergo the same training and pass the same registration exams; however, this does not mean each massage therapist will provide treatment the same way. You might find that you prefer some styles of massage over others or that your body responds better to one type of pressure over another. Here are a few of the different types of modalities you might be curious about:

Swedish massage – this type of massage generally involved using massage lotion or oil and promotes relaxation. It is the form of massage most people tend to be the most familiar with.

Myofascial release techniques – Fascia is connective tissue that connects everything throughout our body, including our muscles. MFR (myofascial Release) is a technique that is generally used without any type of oil or lotion. It is a combination of engaging the tissue through pressure then directing the force of the tissue into the area of resistance. The therapist will then hold that tension until the fascia begins to release and soften. The most important thing to note is that it is difficult to engage the fascia when there is any type of lubricant on the skin, therefore it is generally done without oil or lotion.

Deep tissue massage – What people often refer to as “deep tissue massage” is simply Swedish massage techniques, but with more pressure.

Neuromuscular Massage Therapy – NMT focuses on retraining the nervous system and how it interacts with your muscles. This can be done using different techniques like treating muscle adhesions, connective tissue (MFR, see above) and trigger points. It can also involve techniques like passive range of motion, where your therapist will move certain parts of your body (your shoulder for example) without your help.