Massage therapy isn’t just about relaxation—it’s a proven way to reduce pain, improve flexibility, and support your overall health. It involves the targeted manipulation of soft tissues in the body—including muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia—to ease tension, improve circulation, and help you feel your best.
Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing stress, or simply looking to move more freely, our registered massage therapists tailor every treatment to your unique needs and goals.
Our Registered Massage Therapy Services
When you come to our clinic for massage therapy, you’ll receive a complete customized treatment plan based on your individual needs. Our registered massage therapists have extensive training and experience. We provide a range of massage techniques to suit your needs, including:
| Massage Type | Best For | What to Expect |
| Therapeutic Massage | General muscle pain or stiffness | Focused on pain relief and mobility improvement |
| Deep Tissue Massage | Chronic pain, tension, or muscle knots | Firm pressure targeting deeper muscle layers |
| Cupping Therapy | Chronic pain, inflammation | Suction cups to boost circulation |
| Swedish Relaxation Massage | Stress, anxiety, or first-time massage | Gentle, flowing strokes for full-body relaxation |
| Athletic Massage | Athletes or active individuals | Tailored for recovery and performance |
| TMJ Massage | Jaw tension or headaches | Targeted work around jaw and neck |
| Prenatal Massage | Pregnancy-related discomfort | Safe, soothing techniques for expectant parents |
| Rapid Neurofascial Reset Massage | Chronic pain conditions and muscular imbalances | Targets the nervous system to release muscle tension |
| Trigger Point Therapy | Tension headaches and muscle spasms | Targets muscle knots to release pain and tension |
| Craniosacral Massage | Nervous system imbalances, chronic tension, headaches | Light-touch therapy working with the skull and spine to restore rhythm |
| Migraine Massage | Migraine and headache sufferers | Gentle techniques targeting the neck, head, and face to reduce tension |
| Myofascial Release Massage | Fascia tightness, restricted movement | Sustained pressure to release fascia and improve mobility |
| Lymphatic Drainage Massage | Swelling, detox, post-surgery recovery | Light, rhythmic strokes to encourage lymph flow |
| MPS Scar Release Therapy (Dolphin Neurostim) | Scar tissue, nerve pain, restricted movement | Microcurrent stimulation on scars to release adhesions and improve function |
Not sure which one to pick? Contact us for a personalized recommendation.
Benefits of Massage Therapy
Massage therapy supports both physical and mental wellness. Here are just a few of the benefits:
- Reduces muscle tension and stiffness
- Enhances circulation and flexibility
- Relieves joint pain and inflammation
- Promotes relaxation and stress relief
- Supports post-injury recovery
- Boosts the immune system
- Improves sleep quality
When we get massaged, our body releases endorphins, or natural pain killers, that can also reduce heart rate and lower blood pressure. Did you know that 60 minutes of massage can have the same effect as a full night’s sleep? Contact us today to book your massage therapy appointment.
What to Expect at Your First Massage Therapy Visit
Walking into your first massage appointment? Here’s how it works:
- We listen first. You’ll fill out a short health history form.
- Private setup. Your therapist will leave the room so you can get comfortable.
- Tailored treatment. Your massage therapy is based on your needs and comfort.
- Post-care support. Your therapist may suggest stretches or follow-up treatments.
Our treatment plans are always customized to your individual needs. Book an appointment today to get started.
Who Can Benefit From Massage Therapy?
Massage therapy is safe and beneficial for people of all ages and activity levels. Our therapists tailor every session to your unique needs, taking into consideration your medical history, lifestyle, and preferences.
We commonly work with:
- Athletes – to prevent injuries, boost performance, and aid in recovery during training or post-competition.
- Busy professionals – to ease stress, neck stiffness, and low back pain from prolonged sitting and screen time.
- Pregnant individuals – to relieve back pain, swelling, and tension while promoting relaxation throughout pregnancy.
- People with chronic pain – including those living with fibromyalgia, arthritis, sciatica, or persistent muscle aches.
- Seniors – to reduce joint stiffness, improve balance and circulation, and support healthy aging.
- Individuals recovering from car accidents – to manage pain, reduce scar tissue, and support rehabilitation after whiplash or soft tissue injuries.
- People undergoing cancer treatment – to reduce anxiety, promote comfort, and ease pain or nausea during or after care.
- Those managing mental health concerns – to help regulate the nervous system, lower stress, and support emotional well-being.
Is Massage Therapy Right for You?
Massage therapy can benefit individuals with various conditions, including:
- Arthritis and joint pain
- Headaches and migraines
- Sports injuries
- Chronic pain (e.g., fibromyalgia)
- Post-surgical recovery
- Stress-related muscle tension
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
Still unsure? Our team can help assess whether massage is the right approach for your health goals.
Why Choose Summit Physiotherapy for Massage?
All our massage therapists are certified in registered massage therapy (RMT) and have completed at least 2,200 hours of training. We personalize every session based on your health history and goals.
“I was very impressed with my treatment from Julie for massage therapy. She worked on issues that I had been having for a long time and was able to relieve a lot of my ongoing pain. Julie is very personable and knowledgeable and I would highly recommend her services. Chad on the reception desk was friendly and efficient. Clean and relaxing atmosphere”
Denise Jean
“Brenda is an awesome massage therapist, been going there for I’d say 8 years, always walk away relaxed”
Ben Curley
Choosing a Registered Massage Therapist in St. Albert
It’s important to choose a licensed and experienced therapist who can safely deliver the type of massage you need. At Summit Physiotherapy, all of our massage therapists are certified in registered massage therapy (RMT) and have extensive training in therapeutic techniques.
Not sure which massage therapist to work with? We can help! Contact our clinic today.
Massage Therapy Costs & Insurance Coverage
We offer flexible massage therapy appointment lengths to fit your needs and schedule:
- $65.00 for 30 minutes
- $100.00 for 60 minutes
- $145.00 for 90 minutes
Our massage therapy services may be covered by your extended health benefits plan. We recommend checking with your insurance provider to confirm your coverage details. If eligible, we’re happy to provide receipts you can use to submit for reimbursement.
Need help figuring it out? Contact us—our team is happy to walk you through the process.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get a massage?
The ideal frequency for massage therapy depends on your specific goals. Here are some general guidelines:
- For stress relief: once a month or biweekly can help manage stress levels.
- For chronic pain: weekly sessions at first, then tapering to biweekly or monthly.
- For injury recovery: as recommended by your physiotherapist or care provider.
- For athletes: regular massages during training and recovery periods.
Our team will work with you to determine the right schedule based on your health and lifestyle.
Is massage therapy covered by benefits?
Most benefits will cover massage therapy from a registered massage therapist but we recommend double-checking with your insurance provider prior to making an appointment. We also offer direct billing for those with qualifying coverage.
What’s the difference between a spa massage and a clinic massage?
Spa treatments primarily focus on external relaxation methods like calming decor, ambient music, and scented massage oils. Spa massages typically use a one-size-fits-all approach that may temporarily reduce pain and tension, but aren’t necessarily part of a long-term rehabilitation strategy.
Therapeutic massages performed at a clinic (like ours) factor in your current concerns, your medical history, and your massage preferences to plan an appropriate treatment to relieve both pain and stress. A registered massage therapist at our clinic can assess if a massage is the appropriate treatment, or if another treatment method would be better suited.
What are the benefits of a therapeutic massage at a clinic?
The benefits of visiting a clinic (like ours) for your massage is that our registered massage therapists are familiar with the different modalities of massage therapy, and tailor each patient’s treatment accordingly. What clinics lack in over-the-top spa ambiance, they make up for in specialization and treatment styles that truly make a difference to your long term health and mobility.
For example, the massage given to an elderly client with arthritis is different from the massage given to a competitive athlete with a muscle injury.Massage techniques for patients with injuries, clients seeking relaxation, and expectant mothers all require different kinds of care.
Does massage therapy help with anxiety and mental health?
Yes, research shows that massage therapy can help reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress by lowering cortisol and increasing serotonin and dopamine levels. It supports the mind-body connection and overall emotional well-being.
Can I get a massage if I’m pregnant?
Absolutely. Prenatal massage is safe for most pregnant individuals and can help relieve back pain, swelling, and fatigue. Always inform your massage therapist if you’re expecting, so they can adjust techniques and positioning for your safety and comfort.
Does massage help tendonitis?
Yes. Massage therapy, especially techniques like deep tissue massage and myofascial release, can help reduce inflammation and pain associated with tendonitis by increasing blood flow and improving tissue mobility.
What’s better for muscle knots: acupuncture vs massage?
Both can be effective. Acupuncture targets trigger points using fine needles, while massage applies direct pressure to release tension. For some, a combination of acupuncture and therapeutic massage yields the best results.
What’s the difference between therapeutic massage and regular massage?
A therapeutic massage is designed to target specific health concerns or physical issues like chronic pain, muscle tension, or injury recovery. It often involves techniques that work deeper into the muscles to promote healing and improve function.
A regular massage—often called a relaxation or Swedish massage—is typically more gentle and focuses on stress relief, relaxation, and overall well-being. While both can be beneficial, therapeutic massage is more focused on treatment, while regular massage is focused on general relaxation.
What is the difference between a sports massage and a deep tissue massage?
Sports massage is tailored for athletes and active individuals. It focuses on areas of the body that are overused or stressed from repetitive movement and can be used for injury prevention, recovery, and performance improvement. It may involve stretching, trigger point therapy, and faster-paced techniques depending on the goal.
Deep tissue massage, on the other hand, targets the deeper layers of muscles and connective tissue. It’s used to treat chronic muscle tension, postural problems, or injury-related tightness. While both types can involve firm pressure, sports massage is typically more activity-specific, while deep tissue is more condition-specific.
Who should not get a deep tissue massage?
Deep tissue massage isn’t recommended for everyone. You should avoid or speak to your healthcare provider before getting one if you:
- Have blood clotting disorders or are taking blood thinners
- Are pregnant (unless approved and performed by a therapist trained in prenatal massage)
- Have open wounds, recent surgery, or skin infections
- Are dealing with severe osteoporosis or fragile bones
- Experience unexplained pain or inflammation—it’s best to get a diagnosis first
If you’re unsure, your massage therapist or healthcare provider can help you decide what type of massage is right for you.
What is RAPID Neurofascial Reset massage therapy?
RAPID Neurofascial Reset (RNR) is a hands on release of restriction in the affected tissues, joint capsules, and nerve entrapment which causes a neurological change in your systems (reset and release) and therefore our perception of pain. RNR treatment is done fully clothed and movement is incorporated for the most effective release. The benefits of RNR offer the practitioner the ability to successfully treat the most complex painful musculoskeletal complaints that mainstream medicine offers little help such as sciatica, plantar fasciitis, shin splints, bursitis, frozen shoulder, back pain, migraines TMJ Disorder, vertigo, tinnitus, arthritis, knee pain, golfers and tennis elbow, and much more.
What is Trigger Point Therapy?
Trigger Point Therapy is a massage therapy technique that involves the application of pressure to specific points within tight muscles and connective tissue to relieve pain and dysfunction not only to where the treatment is being applied but to other parts of the body.
What is Dolphin Neurostim MPS therapy?
Dolphin Neurostim applies a unique stimulus to acupuncture treatment points that target specific pain conditions in the body. Dolphin MPS protocols instantly reduce stress and naturally release muscles and endorphins to relieve chronic pain through the body. This multi-pronged effect on the body’s nervous, muscular, and endocrine systems is why it works so quickly and effectively on many chronic pain conditions where other approaches fail.
What is scar tissue release therapy?
Scar tissue release therapy is a gentle and effective technique used to decrease discomfort, fascial adhesions or congestion of scar tissue. With surgery or major trauma, your body will not break down scar tissue completely and it can often lead to excessive tension, causing other parts of your body to compensate.
Ready to feel better fast?
Consider regular massage therapy treatments to free yourself from pain and function at the highest possible level. For more information, or to book your consultation, call us today or book an appointment online.