Massage has the largest group of practitioners in the natural medicine industry; it’s estimated that there are over 15,000 massage therapists in Australia[1] and it’s no surprise that it’s a popular choice to help us ease our aches and pains.

But, did you know there are many types of massage, including remedial, aromatherapy, reflexology, deep tissue, myotherapy and more? With so much choice, how do you know who to see, and why is it important to see an accredited practitioner?

We’ve put together our tips to finding an accredited practitioner of Remedial Massage.

What is Remedial Massage?

Remedial Massage is not a relaxation massage. It is the assessment and treatment of the muscles, tendons, ligaments and connective tissues to assist in rehabilitation, pain and injury management.

Remedial Massage is designed to balance muscle and soft tissue length and tension which can promote the return of normal joint function. It can also improve posture and flexibility, relieving sore muscles, and preventing or managing injuries. Remedial Massage can also be highly beneficial for people with conditions such as chronic pain and sports injuries.

Remedial Massage therapists can also develop a treatment plan that will maximise and improve your wellbeing over the course of the treatment – the results are better when treatment is consistent.

Seeing an accredited practitioner of Remedial Massage

Have you had a massage and not been given a Health Fund Rebate, and wondered why?

In order to offer a Health Fund Rebate, the Remedial Massage therapist must be accredited by a professional association, adhere to a code of ethics, hold professional indemnity insurance, meet minimum standards of education, and continue their professional education annually.

An accredited practitioner of Remedial Massage with the Australian Traditional-Medicine Society (ATMS) must complete a minimum number of hours of education and clinical practice. The current health training package recognises a Diploma of Remedial Massage as the standard to receive health fund rebates.

ATMS accredited practitioners are given an ‘I’m an accredited practitioner’ logo each year to display their accreditation on their website or in their shop.

If you’re unsure if your Remedial Massage therapist is accredited, you are allowed to ask:

• What are your qualifications?
• Who are you accredited with?
• Will I get a health rebate?

There are many benefits to seeing an accredited practitioner of Remedial Massage with studies showing this therapy type can be used to assist in the treatment of a variety of conditions including:

• Anxiety and depression
• Headaches and migraines
• Jaw and head pain
• Neck and shoulder pain
• Tendinopathy
• Insomnia
• Soft tissue injuries
• Upper limb and back pain
• Sciatica
• Lower limb and foot pain (Plantar fasciitis)

Let an accredited practitioner of Remedial Massage help optimise your health and wellbeing.

Find an accredited practitioner of Remedial Massage at www.atms.com.au/find-practitioner

[1] https://www.statista.com/statistics/618582/number-of-massage-therapists-in-australia/