Here are the answers to some of our most frequently asked questions. If the answer to your question isn’t found here, please feel free to give us a call at(250) 472-3629 or email us at Megan@koitreatmentcentre.comor appointments@koitreatmentcentre.com
What should I expect at my first visit?
At your first appointment, we ask you to please arrive 5-10 minutes early to fill out a health history form. In your appointment, we will review your intake forms together and discuss your goals for treatment plus any concerns and questions you may have. Your appointment will also include an assessment, treatment, and a prescription of any therapeutic homecare activities or exercises that are appropriate for you.
How long should my first appointment be?
We recommend a minimum of 45 minutes for your first appointment to ensure adequate time for your assessment and intial treatment.
Do you accept ICBC, WCB, DVA, and MSP claims?
Yes. Our clinic is one of the few clinics in Victoria that is directly opted-in to these plans. This means that if you qualify for coverage through any of these providers, we can bill them directly (meaning less time-consuming paperwork for you!). Click on links below for information specific to massage therapy care.
MSP Coverage for those on premium assistance
Department of Veteran Affairs and Department of National Defense
What coverage do I have through ICBC if I have been in a motor vehicle accident?
Through ICBC, after a motor vehicle accident occurs, you are entitled to coverage of $23 per session, for up to 12 Massage Therapy treatments within the first eight weeks after the incident. A doctor’s note is required. Please inform your therapist of the date of the related accident when booking your appointment. After the initial eight weeks of treatment, your coverage may be extended depending upon your specific situation. Please call our office or speak with your ICBC claims adjuster if you have any additional questions or concerns.
Is massage therapy covered by my extended health care plan?
The vast majority of extended health plans include coverage for massage therapy. Individual plans vary in their coverage, so it is always best to check with your indiviual extended health care provider. We are able to directly bill Green Shield.
*If you are currently a student, you may still be covered under your parent’s extended health care plan or your own through the college or university you attend.
University of Victoria students
* If you are a current RCMP member, you are covered for 25, thirty minute massage appointments per calendar year…**
Do I need a doctor’s referral?
No, registered massage therapists in BC are considered primary healthcare providers, so no referral is necessary to book an appointment. However, certain extended health care plans will require a doctor’s referral so it is always best to check if you need one in order to be reimbursed for the treatments.
Do I need to undress for treatment?
Direct skin contact for treatment is best and normally we do apply oil or lotion to the area being treated. Only the part of the client’s body receiving treatment will be undraped at any one time, the rest will be securely and comfortably covered with linens and a blanket.
However, you are never required to undress any more than you are comfortable. Treatment can be performed on a fully-clothed person.
Is massage therapy painful?
Therapeutic massage may be uncomfortable at times, depending upon your tissue’s state (healthy tissue is not painful with light to moderate pressure) and your goals for treatment.
Therapeutic massage aims to address problematic areas and problematic soft tissues can often be tender. This means that sometimes a therapeutic massage can lead to some discomfort but this should never more than you are okay with. Often client’s will refer to this as “good pain”. A good therapist will check in often and make sure to work within each client’s tolerance level.
More importantly, however, we will make sure your session is never stressful. Deep breathing and open communication with your therapist will help us to keep things at a tolerable level.
Will I be sore after my treatment?
Soreness ultimately depends on many factors, including tissue health, dehydration, sensitivity of the area, prior injuries, and any systemic conditions or issues.
The most important thing to become aware of is that healthy tissue doesn’t hurt with light to moderate pressure. If you are experiencing a lot of pain with little pressure applied to an area, consider it a baseline for your health in that location.
What should I do after my massage?
Generally, it is best if you are able to rest and drink an extra glass or two of water. At your appointment you will be advised as to the most appropriate post-massage care for your individual needs.
What does massage therapy treat?
Many conditions and ailments are effectively treated using massage therapy, here is a partial list.
What is the difference between a Registered Massage Therapist and a masseuse/bodyworker?
A registered massage therapist is a regulated, highly-trained, primary healthcare provider. An RMT has had extensive training and has been rigourously evaulated by the College of Massage Therapists of BC in order to be given the title. RMT’s must graduate from an accredited 3,000 hour program and then pass the provincially regulated board examinations. Upon being registered, the RMT must adhere to regulations set out by the College of Massage Therapists of BC, including requirements for continuing education.
A masseuse, conversely, can be anyone from a student with basic training to an individual with a general interest in massage.
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