With exams coming, many students are under stress, but relief is only a helping hand away.
St. Thomas University’s message therapist Patrick Carmichael’s hands are not for athletes only.
“Students often don’t realize the important role massage therapy can play in their university lives. Students have a lot of neck and upper-back tension from sitting at a desk those long hours,” said Carmichael, from his office at the J.B. O’Keefe. “A relaxation massage before or after exams can help decrease stress levels on the human body significantly.”
When people hear the word therapy, they think: one, it’s only for athletes or people with major injuries; and two, how expensive it is. Carmichael costs $20 for one hour with a Blue Cross plan, and $65 at the most.
“Being a student once myself, I knew what it was like always having to go to class, staying up studying, writing papers, and having no money. So I thought if I had my services on campus, I may be able to help students out and provide them with a service that isn’t as expensive as the rest.”
So who is this man with the magic hands and the funny letters after his name?
A product of Prince Edward Island, it’s the 24-year-old’s first year as head trainer for STU athletics, but he’s no stranger to the game.
Growing up, he was one of Canada’s top gymnasts and participated in the Canada Winter Games in 1999 and again in 2003. Serious injuries to his head and neck ended his gymnastic career, but helped him discover his love for helping people.
“When I was unable to continue gymnastics, I was coaching young gymnasts 50 hours a week. It was when they got banged up and I couldn’t help them, I knew I found my calling,” Carmichael said with a smile.
After researching schools online, massage therapy really stood out to him. A year later, he was enrolled in his first class at the Atlantic College of
Therapeutic Message in Fredericton.
When he landed the job at St. Thomas – after helping with Dave Campbell who had the job last year – it was a perfect fit.
“The main reason I do this is I love to help people. When I succeed in helping someone recover from injury, it makes me feel happy knowing they’re not in pain anymore.”
Being in a enclosed area with a stranger and being touched can be intimidating. So finding someone who makes you feel comfortable while being in a vulnerable position is important.
“I think that the atmosphere he creates in his clinic is what makes the difference between him and other physio treatments and professionals,” said
Rosalynn Alessi, a member of STU’s championship rugby team.
Alessi’s teammate Hannah Davies echoes that sentiment.
“Some girls may think it could be awkward or uncomfortable to have a male massage therapist, but that certainly isn’t the case with Patty. He is very respectful and always makes sure that clients are at ease. He is very considerate and friendly and my personal experience has been great.”
In his short time at STU, the work Carmichael has done hasn’t gone unnoticed, said Davies.
“He’s very knowledgeable about different injuries,” she said. “ Besides, he helps you by giving you stretches and exercises to do on your own. I would recommend this service to all students, not just Tommie athletes. No matter how big or small an injury, it is important to always get it checked out.”
STU hockey forward Brad Gallant is also a fan of Carmichael.
“Whether it is (at the) rink or up at his clinic on campus, Patty always finds time for me. I’ve had many different massage therapists over the last few years, but Patty really stands out. I would recommend him to anyone who is looking to experience pain relief from school or sports or just wants to go to relax.”
