02/02/2026
A common question my client's have been asking is: "Are you still doing massage, or are you only doing physio now?"
Answer: Both! (Sort of. Read on...)
I am only booking appointments as a physiotherapist, so some may see this as "only practicing physio". But did you know that massage is within the 'scope of practice' for physiotherapists? In fact, massage therapy in BC actually came out of the physiotherapy act.
If you are a little nerdy like me, you may find this interesting. Physiotherapy in Canada originated from nursing in the 1920's, particularly after severe war-related injuries lead to an increase in long term musculoskeletal and pain disorders. Nurses started getting trained in rehab, and eventually physiotherapy was given its own separate designation. Massage was used by nurses, and later physios, to help with pain management. It's effectiveness eventually lead to it's own profession, allowing proper training and regulation. Looking at it from this perspective, massage has always been a subset of physiotherapy.
Massage therapy is effective at immediate (albeit often short-term) relief of pain-related symptoms for many conditions. As a massage therapist for 11years, I have seen how effective it can be but I felt limited at helping my patient's find long-term solutions for reoccurring issues. Evidence has lead physiotherapy to focus and specialize in movement therapy and rehabilitation. For many injuries and conditions, exercise therapy is the most evidence-based form of treatment when looking at long-term improvements (often comparing recovery at 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, or 2 years). This is why changing movement patterns and incorporating exercise is a foundational part of physiotherapy. This long-term effectiveness is a big reason I sought to expand my practice. Physiotherapy helps me provide a more holistic approach, giving me even more skills to help my client's meet their goals. I would like to bring together the best of both these professional worlds!
Do you find massage effective at pain relief, but your symptoms keep returning? Do you feel like you are chasing your pain? Do you feel dependent on others to manage your pain? Let's combine the techniques you find effective for pain relief with an evidence-based active treatment plan to help you get your life back.
So, "Am I still doing massage?"
While I am no longer booking full-length massage-only sessions, I am still incorporating massage into my treatments. Every client's goals are different, so this looks differently for everyone. Let's make a plan that feels right for you!
Are you scared that this type of active approach may not fit with your current busy lifestyle? I totally understand! I've been there with my own personal recovery. I always ask every client what is realistic for them, and then we create a plan together.
No guilt trips. No judgment. Just care that meets you where you are at.
