Michael Ryerson

About me

I was born/grew up in: I was born and raised in Owen Sound, Ontario.

I now live in: I live in Owen Sound, Ontario.

I completed my training/education at: I did a three year diploma in Massage Therapy through Georgian College in Barrie, Ontario. I also did a four year degree in Allied Health Sciences through Ontario Tech University. 

What I do at work

I do many different things throughout the day. Everything I do is centred on the people who come in to receive care. I review their health histories and assess the way they function physically and their limitations. Then I create a plan of care and perform the treatment they need.  The treatments I provide include a variety of massage techniques. I compliment these with alternative therapies like low level laser therapy, therapeutic ultrasound, kinesiology taping and cupping.

My job requires a strong understanding of anatomy, physiology and pathology. Because I have a background in these sciences, I can use my critical thinking skills to make decisions for a person’s plan of care. My strong understanding of the musculoskeletal system helps me perform treatments that are more effective.

My career path is

At first, I thought I would do an athletic therapy program. But I chose the massage therapy program because I felt it offered more flexibility after finishing college.

In the seven years I’ve been working, I’ve used my massage skills in the athletic community in many ways. This is something that has truly helped my career. I’ve volunteered with college volleyball teams, junior hockey teams, and at long distance races. All of these things helped me build a name for my business and helped me get the place I am now.

I am motivated by

The people I get to help are what motivate me every day. I get to watch them improve and regain physical function. I get to see how treatments affects them personally. I get to watch them care more and more about their health. There is nothing more rewarding than being out in the community and seeing the people you have worked with, continue to succeed physically and mentally.

How I affect peoples’ lives

My profession is incredibly rewarding. I can have a great influence on a person’s quality of life. I can help an athlete achieve their goals or recover from an injury. I can help make sure someone with chronic musculoskeletal disease is able to keep doing the tasks they need to do every day. I get to leave the office every day knowing I had a positive impact on the lives of those who came in for treatment.

Outside of work I

Outside of work, I spend almost all of my free time practicing what I preach. I try very hard to keep my body moving, and keep my body healthy. I do a lot of long distance running and I am an avid golfer.  I try to fit a spin class in at least 4 times a week and I play hockey three nights a week in the winter.

My advice to others

My advice is simple. Spend some time visiting different professionals in the fields that interests you. Visit massage therapists, physiotherapists and athletic therapists. Get a chance to see how these professionals work and see what fits your lifestyle and your goals the best.