Ashley Van Zelst, Registered Massage Therapist
100 King St. West N7M4W3 Chatham, ON, Canada

RMTs in all regions of Ontario can continue to offer massage therapy services. It's a great time to review the precautions that RMTs take to keep themselves and their patients safe.

Many people experience chronic pain after surgery, and one study found that nearly a quarter of people with chronic pain could attribute that pain to surgery. The surgery itself may have been successful and the person may have visibly recovered, but the pain from the surgery can linger for weeks, months or even years. Research has found that massage therapy can reduce pain and muscular tension after surgery, as well as increase their relaxation and improve their overall satisfaction.

Opening Monday! The wait is over! It has been a long process trying to get ready for re-opening, but I can finally say I am ready. Hours will be reduced to make time for all of the cleaning and disinfecting between clients, so please be patient if I can't get you in right away. If you have not heard from me, send me a quick message or call 519-397-4144, I have a long list to work through, and want to make sure I don't miss anyone.... Things will be different coming to clinic now, there will be several stages of pre-screening, both leading up to appointment, and once you arrive. Masks are mandatory, if you don't come with one, you will be given one with a small fee attached. Come with minimal items into the clinic. It is going to be a big change, but I look forward to seeing everyone again! Thank you for your patience, will see you soon! -Ashley

Exercise has been shown to help people with chronic pain decrease their pain severity and improve their physical function.

Yes, the green light has been given to begin a return to practice. This does not mean opening soon, however. I am currently working on the required courses needed, sourcing the PPE, and setting up the clinic for a safe return to practice. Know that this will be carefully planned. Yesterday, the Premier said:... " Its important to note that this does not mean that all health services will be available on May 27," Premier Doug Ford’s office told CTV News Toronto. Rather, health regulatory colleges are now in the process of developing guidance to ensure high-quality and safe clinical care that must be met before services can resume." It will be very different moving forward, I am looking forward to return to work, but I also need to ensure the health and safety of both you and myself. Be safe, be patient, and be kind. -Ashley

Isolation can not only aggravate current anxiety and depression, but it can cause behaviors to manifest in those that weren’t suffering previously. Here are some tips to help cope with isolation anxiety.

The office remains closed until further notice. Please email me at [email protected] or call 519-397-4144 if you have any questions. Stay safe!

Don't forget, motion is lotion! Keep moving, stretch often!