History of Massage Therapy in Canada

Massage therapy in Canada has a rich and evolving history, reflecting its integration into healthcare and its recognition as a regulated profession.​ 

Early Beginnings and Integration into Healthcare: 

The practice of massage therapy dates back to ancient civilizations, including Egypt, China, and India, where it was utilized for therapeutic purposes. In Canada, the formal integration of massage therapy into healthcare became prominent during World War I. Recognizing the benefits for injured soldiers, the military trained nurses in massage techniques to aid in rehabilitation efforts.  

Regulation and Professionalization:
  • Ontario: In 1919, Ontario became the first province to regulate massage therapy under the Drugless Practitioners Act. This act mandated proper training and registration for practitioners, ensuring standardized care. The establishment of the Board of Regents further solidified the profession’s governance. ​  
  • British Columbia: The profession saw significant advancements in British Columbia as well. In 1946, nurses and remedial gymnasts founded the Association of Physiotherapists and Massage Practitioners of BC, focusing on rehabilitative care. ​  
  • Newfoundland and Labrador: This province regulated massage therapy in 2002, further expanding the profession’s regulated status in Canada.   
  • New Brunswick: In 2013, New Brunswick recognized massage therapy as a regulated health profession, ensuring standardized practices and public safety. ​  
  • Prince Edward Island: The most recent addition, Prince Edward Island, regulated the profession on March 1, 2019, marking a significant milestone in the profession’s history.
Current Landscape:

Today, massage therapy is recognized as a vital component of integrative healthcare in Canada. The profession has grown substantially, with thousands of registered practitioners across regulated provinces. The journey of massage therapy in Canada reflects a commitment to integrating traditional healing practices into modern healthcare, ensuring public safety, and promoting the well-being of Canadians.​ 

A Message About Massage Therapy and HST in Ontario 

Did you know that massage therapy is still taxed as a luxury in Canada? 

In Ontario, Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs) are licensed health care professionals regulated by the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO). We are extensively trained to help clients with a wide range of physical and emotional health concerns — from injury recovery and chronic pain to stress-related tension and mental well-being. 

But here’s the challenge:

While professions like physiotherapy and chiropractic care are exempt from HST, massage therapy is still subject to a 13% federal tax in Ontario. 

This affects not just practitioners — it also impacts clients like you, making it harder for many to access regular care. 

Together with the Registered Massage Therapists’ Association of Ontario (RMTAO), RMTs across the province are advocating for the removal of HST on massage therapy.

This is about tax fairness — and recognizing the vital role massage plays in Canadians’ health and well-being.