Massage Science with Eric Purves

Send us a text Can the flexibility of a new professional development model for massage therapists change the status quo? Discover how British Columbia’s innovative approach is setting the stage for a shift in how therapists across Canada approach continuing education. We delve into the challenges and triumphs of this flexible professional development model, weighing the benefits of personalized learning against the risks of diminished oversight. Hear firsthand about our experiences and the fe...

Send us a text There are many common misunderstandings about evidence based practice (EBP). It is not all about the reserach evidence, although that is a critical component. Join us for a critical conversation with Nadine Hawyrluk, where we clear up the common misunderstandings surrounding evidence-based practice and the new standards set by the CMTBC. We dissect the requirements for maintaining an evidence-based approach, from staying up-to-date with the latest research to ensuring learning...

Send us a text Can massage therapists truly prescribe and monitor therapeutic exercise programs effectively? Join us in a conversation with Michelle Smith from Saskatoon, making her third appearance on the podcast, as we tackle this provocative question head-on. Michelle, whose expertise spans kinesiology and exercise physiology, shares her critical insights into the current state of training for massage therapists, particularly when dealing with clients with co-occurring medical conditions. ...

Send us a text Join us as we sit down with Richard Hawes, a Registered Massage Therapist who has had over 30 years of experience as an RMT and now works with the Vancouver Whitecaps. Richard's path is anything but ordinary—starting off as an aspiring soccer player, pivoting to a police officer in Hong Kong, and ultimately finding his passion in massage therapy in Vancouver. Richard opens up about his personal battle with cancer and how this life-altering experience reignited his passio...

Send us a text Forrest and Monica, two therapists from the town of Nelson, BC, join me to discuss the manual therapies like osteopathy, massage, and acupuncture. They share their journey from education to practice. With their stories, we have a look into the art of listening and communicating, and how these skills contribute to effective patient care. Our discussion explores the evidence and anecdotes behind manual therapies, as we consider the challenges of marrying traditional ...

Send us a text We welcome Anna Maria Mazzieri, a soft tissue therapist and educator from the UK. We share our stories and insights that hope to reshape the landscape of manual therapy. Together, we dismantle the problems of outdated therapeutic models so we can build a new framework where evidence-based practice is the core of clinical success. Anna Maria's expertise, cultivated at the Soft Tissue School in the UK, offers a refreshing perspective on the significance of integrating communicati...

Send us a text Meet Dave Cordoviz, a new Registered Massage Therapist, in Vancouver, BC. Dave discusses the invaluable lessons he'd learn while juggling work at multiple clinics while working at his family's Filipino restaurant. This episode shares insights from Dave's journey towards establishing a successful RMT practice. Navigating the labyrinth of healthcare education can be complex. We dissect the heart of massage therapy education itself—contrasting the atmosphere of RMT school setting...

Send us a text Ever wondered if everything you've heard about scar tissue and massage therapy is consistent with the evidence? Prepare to have your beliefs challenged as we're joined by Susan Shipton RMT from Toronto, Ontario. In this episode we discuss the myths and realities of scar tissue management in massage therapy, particularly following surgery. We've all heard the tales of aggressive massage techniques "breaking down" scar tissue, but Susan and I, draw from some current research and ...

Send us a text In this episode I have a great conversation with Ashley Brzezicki, an RMT and death doula, whose personal narrative and cultural insights bridge the gap between massage therapy and end-of-life care. Exploring this tender intersection, we shine a light on the human touch in healthcare—a touch that offers solace to those grappling with terminal illnesses and envelops their loved ones in the warm embrace of empathy and understanding. Ashley's tapestry of narratives threads ...

Send us a text In my conversation with Pam Fitch, a respected RMT and author, we explore the past and future of massage therapy to reveal its ethical and communicative core. Pam and I explore the delicate balance between physical relief and psychological comfort, and the potential held within our profession. We all carry our life stories, and it's through understanding this narrative that wellness begins. Pam and I share personal anecdotes that underscore the significance of reco...

Send us a text In this episode we welcome Nadine Hawryluk to discuss her academic and professional journey while exploring what the CMTBCs new standard of practice for evidence-based massage therapy could mean for the future of our profession, both in schools as well as in practice. As a recent master's graduate and an RMT from Courtenay, BC, Nadine brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the discussion. Nadine details her journey from body worker to registered massage therapist, unv...

Send us a text Massage therapy in BC is changing with the recent announcement of a new practice standard for RMTs, evidence-based practice. With the College of Massage Therapists of British Columbia (CMTBC) charting a bold new direction, I discuss how the adoption of this new standard come January 2024 could transform the professional landscape for therapists. With an enhanced focus on patient-centered care and focusing on the use of relevant research evidence, this should allow for a staunch...

Send us a text It's been a great journey since the podcast's inception, and your support has catapulted us across 15 countries with a burgeoning community of listeners. This special New Year episode is a toast to you, as we reflect on the strides we've made and the ground we're set to break. Your voices are the backbone of this platform, so consider this your invitation to shape our future episodes with your insights and curiosity. This episode isn't just a retrospective glance; it's a discu...

Send us a text In this episode we navigate the challenges and joys of working in an unregulated province with experienced massage therapists, Michelle Smith and Monty Churchman. From the ins and outs of insurance battles to the complexities of labor mobility, Michelle and Monty shed light on the lesser-known aspects of this profession and how it's shaped by the absence of regulation. They candidly share their personal experiences, including Monty's disappointment over the Olympics hurdle, add...

Send us a text The status quo in the world of musculoskeletal healthcare needs to change. Bridging the gap between outdated norms, current practice standards and evidence-based care is what Marcus Blumensaat is working hard to do. In this episode we welcome Marcus, a registered massage therapist and continuing education provider, who shares his journey as a clinician, family man and a CE instructor. Also, Marcus shares his peculiar interest in watches! Venturing beyond the traditional scope,...