• What is Massage Therapy?
• Do I need a note from my doctor to before I receive massage therapy?
• Will my work benefits cover treatment at VOS Massage Therapy?
• How long should my treatment be?
• How often should I get Massage Therapy?
• What to expect at my first visit

• What is Physiotherapy?
• How can physiotherapy help me?
• Do I need to see my doctor to see a physiotherapist?
• What is McKenzie Method of mechanical diagnosis and therapy (MDT)?
• I used other therapies without success. How is MDT different?
• How many treatments will I need to recover?

Massage therapy is the manipulation of muscles, ligaments, tendons, joints and other soft tissue to illicit a therapeutic benefit. We achieve these benefits using techniques such as Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, and other specialized massage techniques. 

Not necessary but a good idea. Even though we are all trained to assess and treat without the intervention of a medical doctor, we do recommend that you let your doctor know you are receiving massage therapy and how it is helping you for future diagnosis and treatment.  

Yes. VOS Massage Therapy only employs Registered Massage Therapists. You will need to check with your benefits carrier to determine the specific amounts and if there are any limitations or restrictions. 

We recommend 45 to 90 minutes, however 30 minute sessions are also available for individuals with time constraints, or 2 hours for those who want to work through multiple layers of pain and tension in a longer session. Whatever your treatment needs, we will find the right time for you. 

There is no right answer for this question however 1 to 2 times per month as a general rule is good for the average person. Everyone’s massage therapy needs are different and that is why when you come to VOS for treatment, your therapist will assess your specific needs and recommend a course of treatment especially for you.  

When you come to VOS Massage Therapy, you will be asked to complete a short questionnaire to determine your needs, wants, and rule out any reasons you may not be able to receive massage therapy. Your therapist will review this information with you and make recommendations for treatment. Once you both agree on your treatment, you will choose your music and oil and the treatment will then begin. 

The practice of physiotherapy is the assessment and diagnosis of disorders associated with physical dysfunction, injury or pain as well as the treatment and prevention of physical dysfunction in order to develop, maintain or augment function and promote mobility. 

Many painful conditions including back and neck pain can be helped quickly and effectively by a skilled physiotherapist. No matter what part of your body hurts, a physical therapist can assist you to alleviate or manage your pain without the medication, costly diagnostic methods or surgery. 

Physiotherapists in Ontario are primary health professionals so you do not require your doctor’s referral. However, you should check with your extended health insurance provider if you need a doctor’s referral to be reimbursed for physiotherapy services. 

As developed and named after a New Zealand physiotherapist Robin McKenzie, MDT method is based on a philosophy of patient empowerment through education and active patient involvement. With this approach, physical therapy and exercise is used to rapidly abolish pain, return to normal functioning and prevent the pain from coming back.  

A key to effective treatment, proper diagnosis is ensured through structured McKenzie assessment process that is guided by patient’s response to repeated movements. Once a diagnosis has been established a patient can commence specific exercise program, tailored to a particular clinical presentation. Over 80 % of patients can be effectively taught how to abolish their pain but in some instances a hands-on approach (manual therapy) may be necessary to progress the treatment. 

Unlike traditional physiotherapy, the McKenzie Method®. (MDT) does not rely on the use of passive modalities. Instead, it is focused on empowering you through education and professionally guided self-treatment techniques. Many patients that have not been helped by passive treatments respond to MDT rapidly and with a lasting improvement. 

Depending on severity, duration and location of your symptoms your recovery time may vary. If your symptoms are localized and are of short duration you may recover rapidly irrespective of severity of your pain. However, if your symptoms are widespread and include tingling or numbness you may take longer to return to full function. On average, McKenzie therapist can help you abolish or significantly reduce your symptoms during initial 5 to 6 treatments.