In British Columbia, medical physicians regularly refer their patients to a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) - and they make these referrals because massage therapy is both accessible and effective in the treatment of their patients' conditions. Today, RMTs use a blend of modern science and ancient philosophies, utilizing specific techniques and modalities. Over the past decade, there has been a significant rise in the demand for massage therapy in BC. This can be attributed to higher educational standards, research studies showing the efficacy of massage therapy, and an overall increase in public demand for non-surgical and drug-free treatment options. RMTs work with illness, injury and disability in diverse and broad patient populations. They are primary health care professionals that focus on disorders of the musculoskeletal and related systems. Treatment and management of many health conditions by massage therapists is supported by research. Autoimmune Rheumatic Disorders Raynaud’s Disease Systematic Lupus Erythematosus Bursa, Bone, Muscle and Tendon Disorders Fibromyalgia Muscle Cramps Tendinopathies (tendonitis) Contusions Muscle Tension/Spasm Sprains Strains Osteoporosis Foot and Ankle Disorders Medial Plantar Nerve Entrapment Metatarsalgia Plantar Fasciosis Joint Disorders Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Osteoarthritis (OA) Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ) Neck and Back Pain Sciatica Degenerative Disc Disease (slipped disc) Facet pain Whiplash and associated disorders Scoliosis Thoracic outlet syndrome Hand Disorders Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Osteoarthritis of the Hand Ergonomics Shoulder & Elbow Conditions Frozen Shoulder Golfers/tennis elbow (tendonopathy) Headaches Tension Migraine TMJ dysfunction Hip, Leg & Knee Disorders Illiotibial Band Impingement Syndrome Patellar Tracking Dysfunction Shin splints (compartment syndrome) Anterior ligament tears Psychological Disorders Anxiety Depression Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Cancer Care Post Mastectomy Care Nausea Pain Lymphoedema Female Health Pregnancy (Pre and Post Care) Labour Care Pelvic Pain Paediatrics Colic Infant massage Neurological disorders Multiple sclerosis Spastic paralysis Stroke Parkinsons Asthma COPD Emphysema