Massage Therapists

No. Massage therapy is not part of the AHPRA national registration scheme, so there is no government register of massage therapists. The industry self-regulates through professional associations that set qualification, insurance and hygiene standards for members. That is why checking a therapist's qualification, association membership and reviews matters more here than in registered health professions.

Often, for remedial massage, if two things line up: your extras policy includes remedial massage, and the therapist holds membership of an association your fund recognises, with a provider number for that fund. Relaxation massage generally is not claimable. Ask the therapist to confirm they can process your fund before you book, and check your annual limits.

Remedial massage starts with assessment and targets specific problems such as chronic neck tension, injuries or postural pain, using deeper, more clinical techniques. Relaxation massage is a lighter, full-body treatment aimed at stress relief rather than fixing anything specific. Remedial usually costs more, requires a diploma-qualified therapist and is the only one health funds typically rebate.

It depends on the goal. For an acute flare-up, weekly or fortnightly sessions for a few weeks are common, then stretching out as things settle. For maintenance with a physical job or heavy training, every three to six weeks works for many people. A good therapist will suggest a realistic frequency rather than locking you into open-ended weekly visits.

Deep tissue and remedial work can be uncomfortable at points, but pain is not proof of effectiveness, and you should never have to grit your teeth through a session. Good therapists check in on pressure and adjust immediately when asked. Some post-massage soreness for a day or so is normal; bruising and lingering pain are not.