Massage is the treatment and practice of manipulation of the soft body tissues with physical, functional, i.e. mechanical, medical/therapeutic, and in some cases psychological purposes and goals. The word comes from the French massage "friction of kneading," possibly from Arabic massa "to touch, feel, handle" or from Latin massa "mass, dough". [2][3] (In distinction the ancient Greek word for massage itself was anatripsis [4], and the Latin was frictio.)
Massage involves acting on and manipulating the patient's body with pressure (structured, unstructured, stationary, and/or moving), tension, motion, or vibration done manually or with mechanical aids. Target tissues may include muscles, tendons, ligaments, skin, joints, or other connective tissue, as well as lymphatic vessels, and/or organs of the gastrointestinal system. Massage can be applied with the hands, fingers, elbows, forearm, and feet. There are over eighty different massage modalities. [5] The most cited reasons for introducing massage have been patient demand and perceived clinical effectiveness.[6]
In professional settings massage involves the client being treated while lying on a massage table, sitting upright in a massage chair, or lying on a pad on the floor. The massage subject may be fully, partly or unclothed and the body covered with towels or sheets.
History
[edit] Ancient and medieval times
Writings on massage have been found in many ancient civilizations such as Rome, Greece, Japan, China, Egypt, and India. [5]Hippocrates wrote in 460 BC that "The physician must be experienced in many things, but assuredly in rubbing." [7] The ancient Chinese book called Huangdi Neijing by the Yellow Emperor recommended "massage of skin and flesh."[8] The technique of massage abortion, involving the application of pressure to the pregnant abdomen, has been practiced in Southeast Asia for centuries. One of the bas reliefs decorating the temple of Angkor Wat in Cambodia, dated circa 1150, depicts a demon performing such an abortion upon a woman who has been sent to the underworld. This is believed to be the oldest known visual representation of abortion.[9] In Romania some illnesses were treated by a massage in which the patient was trodden on by a tame bear.[10].
[edit] Modern times
United States: Massage started to become popular in the United States in the middle part of the 1800s [5] and was introduced by two New York physicians based on Per Henrik Ling's techniques developed in Sweden. [7]
During the 1930s and 1940s massage's influence decreased as a result of medical advancements of the time, while in the 1970s massage's influence grew once again with a notable rise among athletes. [5] Massage was used up until the 1960s and 1970s by nurses to help ease patients’ pain and help them sleep.[11]
Because it is illegal to advertise or offer sexual services in most of the United States, such services are sometimes advertised as "massage".
United Kingdom: Massage is popular in the United Kingdom today and gaining. There are many private practitioners working from their own premises as well as those who operate from commercial venues.
Massage in sports, business and organizations: The 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta was the first time that massage was offered as a core medical service. [8] Massage has been employed by businesses and organizations such as the U.S. Department of Justice, Boeing and Reebok.[12]
[edit] Equipment
[edit] Massage Table
A typical commercial massage table has an easily cleaned, heavily padded surface, and a horseshoe-shaped head support that allows the client to breathe easily while lying face down and can be stationary or portable. An orthopedic pillow or bolster can be used to correct body positioning.
[edit] Massage Chair
Ergonomically designed massage chairs for positioning a person who will be receiving a massage, serve a similar function as a massage table. Chairs may be either stationary or portable models.
Massage chairs are easier for the practitioner to transport than massage tables, and clients do not need to disrobe to receive a chair massage. Due to these two factors, chair massage is often performed in settings such as corporate offices, outdoor festivals, shopping malls, and other public locations.
[edit] Oil
Many different types of oils can be used including fractionated coconut oil, grape seed oil, macadamia oil, sesame oil, pecan oil, and mustard oil. Arnica, from the flowers or leaves of the Arnica montana, may be added olive oil when used medicinally, or almond oil when used as a massage oil.[13] Aromatherapy oils such as neroli oil and pine oil can also be mixed with carrier oils.
[edit] Mechanical aids
Electronic massage chairs are commercially available, which operate without any manual help. Lexus cars of the fourth generation LS include shiatsu and shoulder massage systems
Massage methods:Massage can be performed by a massage therpaist, or by other health care professionals, such as chiropractors, osteopaths, athletic trainers, and/or physical therapists. Massage therapists work in a variety of medical and recreational settings and may travel to private residences or businesses.[5] Contraindications to massage include, deep vein thrombosis, bleeding disorders or taking blood thinners such as Warfarin, damaged blood vessels, weakened bones from cancer, osteoporosis, or fractures, and fever.[5]
[edit] Acupressure
[edit] Ayurvedic massage
Ayurveda is a natural health care system originating in India that incorporates massage, yoga, meditation and herbal remedies. Ayurvedic massage, also known as Abhyanga is usually performed by one or two therapists using a heated blend of herbal oils based on the ayurvedic system of humors.
[edit] Bowen therapy
Bowen technique involves a rolling movement over fascia, muscles, ligaments, tendons and joints. It is said not to involve deep or prolonged contact with muscle tissues as in most kinds of massage, but claims to relieve muscle tensions and strains and to restore normal lymphatic flow. It is based on practices developed by Australian Tom Bowen.[15]
[edit] Breema
Breema bodywork is performed on the floor with the recipient fully clothed. It consists of rhythmical and gentle leans and stretches.
[edit] Champissage
Champissage is a massage techinque focusing on the head, neck and face that is believed to balance the chakras.
[edit] Esalen Massage
Esalen Massage was developed by Charlotte Selver and works with gentle rocking of the body, passive joint exercises and deep structural work on the muscles and joints, together with an energetic balancing of the body.
[edit] Lomilomi
Lomilomi is the traditional massage of Hawaii. As an indigenous practice, it varies by island and by family.
[edit] Medical massage
Massage used in the medical field includes decongestive therapy used for lymphedema[5] which can be used in conjunction with the treatment of breast cancer. Carotid sinus massage is used to diagnose carotid sinus syncope and is sometimes useful for differentiating supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) from ventricular tachycardia. It, like the valsalva maneuver, is a therapy for SVT.[16] However, it is less effective than management of SVT with medications.[17]
[edit] Myofascial release
Myofascial release refers to the manual massage technique for stretching the fascia and releasing bonds between fascia, integument, and muscles with the goal of eliminating pain, increasing range of motion and equilibrioception. Myofascial release usually involves applying shear compression or tension in various directions, or by skin rolling.
[edit] Anma
Anma is is a traditional Japanese massage involving kneading and deep tissue work.
[edit] Reflexology massage
Reflexology involves massaging, squeezing or pushing parts of the feet, hands and ears with a goal of encouraging health throughout the body. This theory is based on a perceived energetic flow of "meridians" in the body, and is considered pseudoscientific.
[edit] Shiatsu
Shiatsu (指圧) is a form of Japanese massage that uses thumb pressure and works along the same energy meridians as acupressure and incorporates stretching.
[edit] Stone massage
A stone massage uses cold or water-heated stones to apply pressure and heat to the body. Stones coated in oil can also be used by the therapist delivering various massaging strokes.
[edit] Rolfing
Rolfing works to realign the body's structure with the human gait.
[edit] Swedish massage
Swedish massage uses six styles of long, flowing strokes to massage. The six basic strokes are effleurage (light touch), petrissage (kneading), tapotement (rhythmic tapping), compression, and vibration. Swedish massage has shown to be helpful in reducing pain, joint stiffness, and improving function in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee over a period of eight weeks.[18] The development of Swedish massage is credited to Per Henrik Ling though the Dutch practitioner Johan Georg Mezger adopted the French names to denote the basic strokes.[19]
[edit] Thai massage
Known in Thailand as นวดแผนโบราณ (Nuat phaen boran, IPA [nuɑt pʰɛn boraːn]), meaning "ancient/traditional massage", Thai massage originated in India and is based on ayurveda and yoga. It was believed that the massage art was brought over to Thailand by Shivago Komarpaj over 2500 years ago. The technique combines massage with yoga-like positions during the course of the massage; the northern style emphasizes stretching whiel the southern style emphasizes acupressure.
[edit] Traditional Chinese massage
Two types of traditional Chinese massage exist - Tui na (推拿) which focusses on pushing, stretching and kneading the muscle and Zhi Ya (指壓) which focuses on pinching and pressing at acupressure points. Both are based on principles from Traditional Chinese Medicine.
[edit] Trager Approach
The Trager approach combines movement, massage and education.
[edit] Trigger point therapy
Also called a pressure point massage,[5] this involves stimulating hypothetical trigger point that may refer pain sensations to other parts of the body. Manual pressure is applied to these points. Trigger point therapy was founded by Janet G. Travell and David Simons.
[edit] Visceral manipulation
One form is Mayan abdominal massage which is practiced in many countries in Latin America. This type of massage was developed by Elijio Panti and Rosita Arvigo of Peru.
[edit] Watsu
Watsu is the combination of hydrotherapy and shiatsu developed by Harold Dull. The work is done in skin temperature water with both the therapist and practitioner in the water, usually a pool which is between 3.5 ft to 4 ft. (100–120 cm) deep. The work entails much movement in the water and practitioners believe that it incorporates the activation of the energy lines derived from shiatsu.
[edit] Associated methods
Many types of practices are associated with massage and include Bodywork (alternative medicine), manual therapy, energy medicine, and breathwork. Other names for massage and related practices include hands-on work, body/somatic therapy, and somatic movement education. Body-mind integration techniques stress self-awareness and movement over physical manipulations by a practitioner. Therapies related to movement awareness/education are closer to Dance and movement therapies. Massage can also have connections with the New Age movement and alternative medicine as well as being used by mainstream medical practitioners.
[edit] Beneficial effects
Peer-reviewed medical research has shown that the benefits of massage include pain relief, reduced trait anxiety and depression, and temporarily reduced blood pressure, heart rate, and state anxiety.[20] Theories behind what massage might do include blocking nociception (gate control theory), activating the parasympathetic nervous system which may stimulate the release of endorphins and serotonin, preventing fibrosis or scar tissue, increasing the flow of lymph, and improving sleep[5] but such effects are yet to be supported by well designed clinical studies.
Massage is hindered from reaching the gold standard of scientific research which includes placebo-controlled and double blind clinical trials.[21] [22] Developing a "sham" manual therapy for massage would be difficult since even light touch massage could not be assumed to be completely devoid of effects on the subject.[21] It would also be difficult to find a subject that would not notice that they were getting less of a massage and it would be impossible to blind the therapist.[21] Massage can employ randomized controlled trials which are published in peer reviewed medical journals.[21] This type of study could increase the credibility of the profession because it displays that purported therapeutic effects are reproducible.[22]
[edit] Single dose effects
Pain relief: Relief from pain due to musculoskeletal injuries and other causes is cited as a major benefit of massage.[5] In one study, cancer patients self-reported symptomatic relief of pain.[23] [24] This study, however, did not include a no treatment or placebo control group so these effect may be due to the placebo effect or regression towards the mean. Massage can also relieve tension headaches.[citation needed] Acupressure or pressure point massage may be more beneficial than classic Swedish massage in relieving back pain.[25] However, a meta-study conducted by scientists at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign failed to find a statistically significant reduction in pain immediately following treatment. [20]
State anxiety: Massage has been shown to reduce state anxiety, a transient measure of anxiety in a given situation. [20]
Blood pressure and heart rate: Massage has been shown to reduce blood pressure and heart rate as temporary effects. [20]
Attention: After massage, EEG patterns indicate enhanced performance and alertness on mathematical computations, with the effects perhaps being mediated by decreased stress hormones.[citation needed]
Other: Massage also stimulates the immune system[26] by increasing peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs). However, this immune system effect is only observed in aromatherapy massage, which includes sweet almond oil, lavender oil, cypress oil, and sweet marjoram oil. It is unclear whether this effect persists over the long term.
[edit] Multiple dose effects
Pain relief: When combined with education and exercises, massage might help sub-acute, chronic, non-specific low back pain. [27] Furthermore, massage has been shown to reduce pain experienced in the days or weeks after treatment. [20]
Trait anxiety: Massage has been shown to reduce trait anxiety; a person's general susceptibility to anxiety. [20]
Depression: Massage has been shown to reduce subclinical depression. [20]
Diseases: Massage, involving stretching, has been shown to help with spastic diplegia resulting from Cerebral palsy in a small pilot study.[28] The researchers warn that these results should "be viewed with caution until a double-blind controlled trial can be conducted".
Massage has been used in an effort to improve symptoms, disease progression, and quality of life in HIV patients, however, this treatment is not scientifically supported.[29]
[edit] Regulation
In the USA there are about 90,000 massage therapists. [7] Training programs in the US are typically 500–1000 hours in length, and can award a certificate, diploma, or degree depending on the particular school. [30] There are around 1,300 programs training massage therapists in the country and study will often include anatomy and physiology, kinesiology, massage techniques, first aid and CPR, business, ethical and legal issues, and hands on practice along with continuing education requirements if regulated. [5] The Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (COMTA) is one of the organizations that works with massage schools in the U.S.. [6] 38 states and the District of Columbia require some type of licencing for massage therapists. [31] In the US, 32 states use the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork's certification program as a basis for granting licenses either by rule or statute. [32] The National Board grants the designation Nationally Certified in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCTMB). There are two tests available and you can become certified through a porfolio process if you have equivalent training and experience. [33] Between 10-20% of towns or counties regulate the profession. [34] These local regulations can range from prohibition on opposite sex massage, fingerprinting and venereal checks from a doctor, to prohibition on house calls because of concern regarding sale of sexual services.[34] [35]
In the USA licensure is the highest level of regulation and this restricts anyone without a license from practicing massage therapy or by calling themselves that protected title. Certification allows only those who meet certain educational criteria to use the protected title and registration only requires a listing of therapists who apply and meet an educational requirement. [35]
In Canada only three provinces regulate massage therapy [36] they are British Columbia, Ontario, and Newfoundland and Labrador. [34] The Canadian Massage Therapists Alliance (CMTA) has set a level of 2200 practice hours in Ontario, and Newfoundland and Labrador and 3000 hours in British Columbia. [36] In India, massage therapy is licenced by The Department of Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy (AYUSH) under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (India) in March of 1995.
Because the art and science of massage is a globally diverse phenomenon, different legal jurisdictions sometimes recognize and license individuals with titles. Examples are:
- Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) Canada
- Certified Massage Therapist (CMT)
- Licensed Massage Practitioner (LMP)
- Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT)
- Licensed Massage and Bodywork Therapist (LMBT) North Carolina
[edit] Prevalence in the United States
In 1997 there was an estimated 114 million visits to massage therapists in the US.[30] Massage therapy is the most used type of Complementary and alternative medicine in hospitals in the United States.[6]
People state that they use massage because they believe that it relieves pain from musculoskeletal injuries and other causes of pain, reduces stress and enhances relaxation, rehabilitates sports injuries, decreases feelings of anxiety and depression, and increases general well being.[5]
In a poll of 25-35 year olds 79% said they would like their health insurance plan to cover massage.[8] Some of the companies that offer massage to their employees include Allstate, Best Buy, Cisco Systems, FedEx, Gannett (which runs USA Today), General Electric, Hewlett-Packard, Home Depot, JC Penney, Kimberly-Clark, Texas Instruments and Yahoo. In 2006 Duke University Health System opened up a center to integrate medical disciplines with CAM disciplines such as massage therapy and acupuncture[37], this trend was started by Andrew Weil. There were 15,500 spas in the United States in 2007 with about a third of the visitors being men.[31]
The number of visits rose from 91 million in 1999 to 136 million in 2003, generating a revenue that equals $11 billion.[38]
[edit] Prevalence in Asia
In Asia, bathroom attendants may provide a hot face towel and a massage.
[edit] Notable practitioners
Heinrich Himmler, commander of the Schutzstaffel (SS) and one of the most powerful men in Nazi Germany might have lost faith in German victory due to his discussions with his masseurs Felix Kersten and Walter Schellenberg.[39] Albert Bedane (1893–1980) who provided shelter to a Jewish woman and others during World War II was a massage/physiotherapist.
Becoming a Massage Therapist
If you are considering a career as a massage therapist, here's a few tips to help you make an informed decision:- First, receive several massages yourself to see what technique best suits you.
- Consider the physical, mental and social aspects of the profession.
- Job-shadow another massage therapist you trust and respect. This is an excellent way to see first hand if massage therapy is suitable for you.
- Interview several massage therapists. Ask them common questions to see if there are any discrepancies or concerns.
- Research the different types of massage and the schools that offer them.
- Consider the type of massage you want to study, wether it is relaxation, Swedish massage, sports massage, deep tissue massage or a combination. This is important, because in the end you must feel comfortable with the technique you have chosen to study.
Massage Therapy Schools
Massage therapy is the fastest growing segment of natural health care, due largely to the growth in public demand for alternative approaches to health.
Each year, thousands of people pursue careers in massage therapy. Typically, these are individuals who are interested in different types of therapies that promote well-being and a higher quality of life.<
Still, there are over 100 different massage therapy techniques available today, and it's hard to know where one should start!
If you are uncertain of the type of bodywork you want to pursue, getting an education as a massage therapist first is a great way to begin and to set the groundwork for your future career. You can easily expand from your massage therapy training, and add new therapies to your practice in the future.
The following pages will introduce you to massage therapy training and schools, and help you get started toward a great career!
Massage Therapy Income
Massage therapists' incomes vary widely, depending on variables such as:- location
- type of practice
- your skills and the different techniques, modalities used
- your level of experience
Independent contractors working in a clinic setting commonly split their fees on a percentage basis to cover the services that are provided, such as working space, receptionist, supplies (oils, linens, etc.) and equipment (massage table, stools, chairs, etc.). A massage therapist in a city may charge $60 to $70 an hour, and $35 to $50 in rural communities. Practitioners working for an hourly wage may earn less; however, they do not have overhead expenses.
Due to the physical and emotional demands of massage therapy, massage therapists commonly work less than 35 hours a week - though each individual's capacity will vary. Thus, a large percentage of therapists practice part-time, generally less than 10 hours a week.
Massage practitioners do not have the classic career ladder, in that advancements are not achieved through promotions and progressively taking on higher levels of responsibility. Instead, a therapist may take additional courses, which increases his or her ability and effectiveness, along with their clientele and fees.
Commonly, it takes six months to a year, with effort and persistence, to build a practice. Having good business and entrepreneurial skills can also be a major factor in building a practice.
Your income can grow by increasing the number of clients seen on a day-to-day basis. However, this is limited by the relatively intensive one-on-one nature of massage therapy.
Massage Schools Directory
Looking for a massage school near you? Massage Therapy 101 has compiled this extensive list of schools across North America that currently offer a massage therapy curriculum.The schools are listed under the State or Province that they are located in. You can use the links below to jump to the geographic location you wish to browse.
Would you like to have your school listed in this directory? Contact us at advertising@moxymedia.com.
Alabama Virginia College - Birmingham Located in Birmingham, Alabama, offering Massage Therapy curricula. WORK D: Virginia College - Jackson Located in Huntsville, Alabama, offering Massage Therapy curricula.
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Alberta, Canada Mount Royal College - Centre for Complementary Health Education The Centre for Complementary Health Education (CCHE) is a centre of excellence offering professional certificates in Massage Therapy, Acupressure Therapy, Aromatherapy and Reflexology Therapy. Each of these professions presents exciting and rewarding opportunities to be a part of the professional health care community. Therapists entering these careers must be well qualified, possessing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills to assist their clients in achieving optimum health. Consider our comprehensive and rigorous certificate programs, all facilitated by highly skilled, competent practitioners. Any one of these careers can be launched in just one year! Graduates enjoy a multitude of career paths. The majority establish a private practice or a joint practice with other health care professionals such as Chiropractors, Naturopaths and Physiotherapists. Others have found employment opportunities in multi-disciplinary medical or holistic health clinics, fitness clubs, resorts and health spas.
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Arizona The Everest School - Phoenix Located in Phoenix, Arizona, offering Dental, Massage Therapy and Medical curricula. Apollo College - Mesa Located in Mesa, Arizona offering Massage Therapy curricula. Apollo College - Phoenix Located in Phoenix, Arizona offering Massage Therapy curricula. Apollo College - Tucson Located in Tuscon, Arizona offering Massage Therapy curricula. Arizona School of Massage Therapy - Phoenix Located in Phoenix, Arizona, offering Massage Therapy curricula. Arizona School of Massage Therapy - Tempe Located in Tempe, Arizona, offering Massage Therapy curricula. Phoenix Therapeutic Massage College - PhoenixLocated in Arizona, they offer the following curriculum- Massage and Healthcare Technician, Master Massage Practitioner, Therapeutic Massage Remington College Enhance your marketable skill set quickly with Remington College. As a student, you will have access to focused classes and a team of career placement professionals. The Academy of Health Care Professions - Houston North Loop Located in Arizona and offering Massage Therapy.
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California Academy of Professional Careers - IndioLocated in Indio, CA, offering Administrative Medical/ Dental Assistant, Holistic Health Practitioner, Massage Therapy, Medical Assisting and Pharmacy Technician programs. Academy of Professional Careers - La Mesa Located in La Mesa, California offering Dental, Massage Therapy and Medical & Healthcare curricula. Academy of Professional Careers - San Marcos Located in San Marcos, California offering Massage Therapy and Medical & Healthcare curricula. Everest College AnaheimLocated in Anaheim, CA offering computer, dental, medical healthcare, office skills, X-Ray Technician and massage therapy Curriculums Everest College City of Industry Located in City of Industry , CA offering: Diplomas in Business Management/Administrative Assistant, Dental Assistant, Massage Therapist, Medical Assistant, Medical Insurance Biller, Medical Laboratory Assistant/Phlebotomist, and X-Ray Technician. Offering Certificates in Medical Assistant, Medical Insurance Biller, and Medical Laboratory Assistant/Phlebotomist. Also offering an Occupational Associate Degree in Medical Office Management. Everest College Hayward Located in Hayward, CA offering: Massage Therapy, Medical Administrative Assistant, Medical Assisting, Medical Insurance Billing & Coding Everest College OntarioLocated in Ontario, California offering business, dental, electronics, computer, massage therapy and medical healthcare Curriculums Everest College West Los AngelesLocated in West Los Angeles, CA offering: Occupational Associate Degree in Medical Office Management Diplomas in Business Management/Administrative Assistant, Dental Assisting, Massage Therapist and X-Ray Technician. Offering Diplomas & Certificates in Medical Assisting, Medical Insurance Billing/Coding, and Medical Laboratory Assistant/Phlebotomist. Everest College Located in San Francisco, California, offering Massage Therapy curricula. Everest College Located in San Jose, California offering Massage Therapy Curricula. Everest College El Monte Located in Alhambra, California, offering Massage Therapy curricula. Everest - San Bernardino Located in San Bernardino, California offering Massage Therapy curricula. Career Networks Institute - Orange County Located in Orange County, CA offering massage therapy, vocational nursing and healthcare & medical assisting programs Golden State College - Bakersfield Located in Bakersfield, CA offering Holistic Health Practitioner and Massage Therapy programs. Golden State College - FresnoLocated in Fresno, CA offering Administrative Medical/Dental Assistant, Holistic Health Practitioner, Massage Therapy and Medical Assisting programs. Golden State College - VisaliaLocated in Visalia, CA offering Administrative Medical/Dental Assistant, Full Charge Bookkeeper, Holistic Health Practitioner, Massage Therapy, Medical Assisting and Office Administration programs. High-Tech Institute - Sacramento Located in Sacramento, California offers career training cirrica in Massage Therapy. ICT College Located in Los Angeles, CA offering Massage Therapy curricula. Institute for Business and TechnologyLocated in Santa Clara, Ca offering Administrative Assistant/Computer Applications, Commercial Refrigeration, Heating & AC, Electrician, Lab Assistant/EKG Tech/Phlebotomist, Massage Therapy, Medical Assistant, Medical Insurance Billing/Coding and Plumbing programs. Maric College - Palm Springs Located in Palm Springs, California offering Massage Therapy curricula. Northwestern College Located in Gold River, California, offering Massage Therapy curricula. National Holistic Institute Located in Emeryville, California, offering Massage Therapy curriculum. National Institute of Technology - Long BeachLocated in Long Beach, CA offering Business, Computer, Electronics & Computer Repair, Massage Therapy, Medical & Healthcare, plumber and plumbing technology programs. Samra University of Oriental Medicine Located in Los Angeles, CA offering massage and medical programs. Silicon Valley College - Emeryville Located in Emeryville, California offering Massage Therapy curricula. Silicon Valley College - Fremont Located in Fremont, California offering Massage Therapy curricula. Silicon Valley College - San Jose Located in San Jose, California offering Massage Therapy curricula. Silicon Valley College - Walnut Creek Located in Walnut Creek, California offering Massage Therapy curricula. Trinity College - Vallejo Located in Vallejo, CA offering Administrative Medical/Dental Assistant, Massage Therapy and Medical Assisting programs. Western Career College - Pleasant Hill Located in Pleasant Hill, California offering Dental, Massage Therapy, Medical & Healthcare and Veterinary curricula. Western Career College - Sacramento Located in Sacramento, California offering Dental, Massage Therapy, Medical & Healthcare and Veterinary curricula. Western Career College - Citrus Heights Located in Citrus Heights, California, offering Massage Therapy curricula. Western Career College - Stockton Located in Stockton, California offering Massage Therapy curricula. Western College of Southern California Located in Cerritos, California, offering Massage Therapy curricula.
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Colorado Cambridge College - Aurora Located in Aurora, Colorado offers Computer, Massage Therapy and Medical & healthcare. Denver Career College Located in Denver, CO offering criminal justice, legal, massage therapy Curriculums Denver School of Massage Therapy - Westminster Campus Located in Aurora, Colorado, offering Massage Therapy curriculum. Denver School of Massage Therapy - Westminster Campus Located in Westminster, Colorado, offering Massage Therapy curriculum.
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Connecticut Premier Education Group - Branford Hall Career InstituteBranford Hall Career Institute offers career-focused education that gives you the job skills you need to make the leap into some of todays hottest careers. Connecticut Center for Massage Therapy Located in Newington, Westport and Groton. CT’s only school dedicated exclusively to massage therapy. Since 1980.
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Florida Edutech Centers - Brandon Located in Riverview, FL and offers a Massage Therapist curriculum. Edutech Centers - Clearwater Edutech is located in Clearwater, FL and offers a Massage Therapist curriculum. FMU Lakeland Located in Lakeland, FL and offers a Massage Therapist curriculum. FMU - Tampa Located in Tampa, FL and offers a Massage Therapist curriculum. Herzing College - Orlando Located in Florida, they offer the following curriculum: Business Administration, Computer Information Systems, Computer Network Technology, Insurance Coding Specialist, Legal Assisting/Paralegal Associate, Medical Assisting, Medical Office Administration, Network Systems and Therapeutic Massage. Remington College - Jacksonville Located in Jacksonville, Florida, offering Massage Therapy curricula. Remington College - Largo Located in Largo, Florida, offering Massage Therapy curricula. Remington College - Tampa Located in Tampa, Florida, offering Massage Therapy curricula. The Praxis Institute - Hialeah Located in Hialeah, Florida offering Massage Therapy curriculum The Praxis Institute - Miami Located in Miami, Florida offering Massage Therapy curriculum. High-Tech Institute - OrlandoLocated in Orlando, Florida offers courses in Computer Networking & Information Technology, Medical, Medical Coding And Billing, Dental, Massage Therapy, Computer Networking & Security and Digital Design & Animation.
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Georgia Atlanta School of MassageNamed one of the 'most prestigious' massage therapy schools in the country in a recent USA today article, Atlanta School of Massage has been a leader in massage therapy education for over 25 years. Career Education Institute -- Norcross Located in Norcross, Georgia offering Massage Therapy curricula. Georgia Medical Institute - Atlanta Downtown Located in Downtown Atlanta, Georgia offering Business, Massage Therapy and Medical & Healthcare curricula. Georgia Medical Institute - DeKalb Located in Atlanta, Georgia offering Business, Massage Therapy and Medical & Healthcare curricula. Georgia Medical Institute - Jonesboro Located in Jonesboro, Georgia offering Massage Therapy curricula. Georgia Medical Institute - Marietta Located in Marietta, Georgia offering Business, Massage Therapy curricula. Georgia Medical Institute - Norcross Located in Norcross, Georgia offering Massage Therapy curricula. High-Tech Institute - AtlantaLocated in Atlanta, Georgia offers programs in Computer Networking & Information Technology, Medical, Massage Therapy and Digital Design & Animation. Sanford-Brown Institute - Multi-campus At Sanford-Brown Institute, youre only 9 months away from a career in Allied Health. Convenient day and evening classes start every five weeks, so you can get started quickly. Learn more today
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Hawaii Remington College - Honolulu Located in Honolulu, Hawaii, offering Business, Computer, Criminal Justice, Hotel & Resturant Management, International Trade, Massage Therapy and Medical curricula.
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Idaho Academy of Professional Careers - Boise Located in Boise, ID, offering Administrative Medical/Dental Assistant, Dental Assistant, Holistic Health Practitioner, Massage Therapy, Medical Assisting and Pharmacy Technician programs. Apollo College - Boise Located in Boise, Idaho, offering Massage Therapy curricula.
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Illinois Chicago School of Massage Therapy - The Loop Located in Chicago, Illinois, accepting leads from throughout Illinois, offering Massage Therapy curriculum. Chicago School of Massage Therapy - McHenry County College Located in Crystal Lake, Illinois, accepting leads from throughout Illinois, offering Massage Therapy curricula. Illinois School of Health Careers (ISHC) Look no further than Illinois School of Health Careers to give you the training you need to excel in Health Care. Everest College - Burr Ridge Located in Burr Ridge, Illinois, offering Massage Therapy, Medical Assisting and Office Professional curricula. Everest College - Skokie Located in Skokie, IL offering Massage Therapy, Medical Billing/Coding and Medical/Healthcare Assisting curricula. The Soma Institute Located in Chicago, Illinois offering Clinical Massage Therapy.
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Indiana Everest College - Merrillville Located in Merrillville, Indiana offering Massage Therapy curricula. Professional Careers Institute Located in Indianapolis, Indiana, offering Massage Therapy curricula. Sawyer College - Hammond Located in Hammond, Indiana, Massage Therapy curricula. Sawyer College - Merrillville Located in Merriville, Indiana offering Accounting & Finance, Computer, Legal & Paralegal, Massage Therapy, Medical & Healthcare and Office Professional curricula.
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Kansas Pinnacle Career Institute
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Louisiana
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Maine Premier Education Group - Seacoast Career Schools Seacoast Career College offers career-focused education that gives you the skills you need to make the leap into your new career.
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Maryland TESST College of Technology - BeltsvilleLocated in Beltsville, Maryland offering Arts & Drafts, Business, Computer, Criminal Justice, Drafting & Architecture, Electronics & Computer Repair, Massage Therapy, Telecommunications and Medical & Healthcare curricula.
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Massachusetts Everest Institute - Brighton Located in Brighton, Massachusetts offering Massage Therapy curricula. Everest Institute - Chelsea Located in Chelsea, Massachusetts and offering Medical and Massage Therapy curricula. Computer-Ed Institute Located in Brockton, Massachusetts offering Massage Therapy. Career Education Institute -- Lowell Located in Lowell, Massachusetts offering Massage Therapy curricula. Career Education Institute -- SomervilleLocated in Somerville, Massachusetts offering Business, Computer, Massage Therapy, Medical & Healthcare and Office Professional curricula. Premier Education Group - Branford Hall Career InstituteBranford Hall Career Institute offers career-focused education that gives you the job skills you need to make the leap into some of todays hottest careers. The Salter School - Fall River Located in Fall River, MA, offering Massage Therapy programs.
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Michigan
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Minnesota Everest College Get the knowledge, training and personalized attention youll need to launch a career youll love at Everest College. Everest Colleges mission is to provide quality, job-relevant training to men and women of all ages and backgrounds. Meet the challenges of tomorrow head on with programs including: Business Management, Business Operations, Dental Assisting, Massage Therapist, Medical Administrative Assistant, Medical Assisting, Pharmacy Technician and more. Duluth Business UniversityDuluth Business University is located in Duluth, MN and accepts leads in a 50 radius around Duluth that covers part of Minnesota and part of Wisconsin. They offer the following programs: Accounting, Billing & Coding Specialist, Business Administration, Graphic Design Media, Massage Therapy, Medical Assistant, Office Administrator, Veterinary Clinical Assistant, & Veterinary Technology High-Tech Institute - MinneapolisLocated in Minneapolis, Minnesota offers Computer Networking & Information Technology, Medical and Massage Therapy cirricula. Maric College - Palm Springs Six Campuses located in Minnesota, offering Massage Therapy curricula. Minnesota School of Business and Globe College Located in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, offering Massage Therapy curricula. Minnesota School of Business and Globe College - Brooklyn Center Located in Oakdale, Minnesota, offering Massage Therapy curricula. Minnesota School of Business and Globe College - Oakdale Located in Plymouth, Minnesota, offering Massage Therapy curricula. Minnesota School of Business and Globe College - Plymouth Located in Richfield/Bloomington, Minnesota, offering Massage Therapy curricula. Minnesota School of Business and Globe College - Rochester Located in Rochester, Minnesota, offering Massage Therapy curricula. Minnesota School of Business and Globe College - Shakopee Located in Shakopee, Minnesota, offering Massage Therapy curricula. Minnesota School of Business and Globe College - St. Cloud Located in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, Massage Therapy curricula. Rasmussen College - Eagan Located in Eagan, Minnesota offering the following Massage Therapy curricula. Rasmussen College - Mankato Located in Mankato, Minnesota offering the following Massage Therapy curricula. Rasmussen College - Minnetonka Located in Minnetonka, Minnesota offer Massage Therapy. Rasmussen College - St. Cloud Located in St. Cloud, Minnesota offer Massage Therapy.
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Mississippi Virginia College - Jackson Located in Jackson, Mississippi, Massage Therapy curricula.
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Missouri Allied College - North St. LouisLocated in North St. Louis, Missouri, offering Dental Assistant, Massage Therapy, Medical Assistant, Medical Billing & Coding, Pharmacy Technician and Surgical Technologist curricula. Allied College - South ArnoldLocated in South Arnold, Missouri offering Dental Assistant, Massage Therapy, Medical Assistant, Medical Billing & Coding and Pharmacy Technician curricula. High-Tech Institute - Kansas City Located in Kansas City, Missouri offering Massage Therapy, Medical Assistant and Surgical Technologist. Missouri CollegeEarn a degree that really means something. Missouri College has designed its Health Care, Computer and Business program areas with all the skills and knowledge students will need for success. Professional Fitness Institute - Independence Located in Missouri and offering massage therapy and personal training programs.
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Nevada Accounting & Finance Training Located in Las Vegas, Nevada, offering Massage Therapy curricula. High-Tech Institute - Las Vegas Located in Las Vegas, Nevada offering Dental Assistant, Massage Therapy, Medical Assistant, Pharmacy Technician and Surgical Technologist. Las Vegas College - Henderson Located in Henderson, Nevada offering Business, Criminal Justice, Massage Therapy and Medical & Healthcare curricula. Nevada Career Academy Located in Sparks, NV, offering Administrative Medical/Dental Assistant, Holistic Health Practitioner, Massage Therapy, Medical Assisting, Office Administration and Pharmaceutical Technician programs. Nevada Career Institute Located Las Vegas, Nevada, offering Massage Therapy curricula. Nevada School of Massage Therapy Located in Las Vegas, Nevada, offering Massage Therapy curricula.
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New Hampshire Hesser College - Nashua Located in Nashua, New Hampshire, offering Massage Therapy curricula. Hesser College - PortsmouthLocated in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, offering Accounting & Finance, Advertising & Marketing, Broadcasting, Business, Computer, Counseling & Psychology, Criminal Justice, Education & Childcare, General Studies, Interior Design, Legal & Paralegal, Massage Therapy and Medical & Healthcare curricula. Golden State College - Visalia Located in Salem, New Hampshire, offering Massage Therapy curricula. McIntosh College Located in Dover, New Hampshire offering Arts & Design, Business, Criminal Justice, Fashion Design, Film & Photography, Legal Paralegal, Massage Therapy and Medical & Healthcare curricula. Premier Education Group - Seacoast Career Schools Seacoast Career College offers career-focused education that gives you the skills you need to make the leap into your new career.
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New Jersey Berdan InstituteLocated New Jersey in offering Medical Assisting, Dental Assisting, Medical Office Administration, Medical Billing/Coding, and Massage Therapy curriculums. Dover Business College - Dover Located in Dover, New Jersey offering Massage Therapy curricula. Dover Business College Located in Paramus, New Jersey, offering Massage Therapy curricula. Healing Hands InstituteGet the knowledge, training and personalized attention to launch a career you'll love. We focus exclusively on massage, 6 month program, affordable. Institute for Therapeutic Massage - 6 locations in New JerseyLearn Massage Therapy, Shiatsu & Personal Training at 6 schools in middle and northern New Jersey. We are affiliated with 4 hospitals and also offer over 30 continuing education courses. Our locations include: Pompton Lakes, Newark, Morristown, Red Bank, Toms River and Browns Mills Sanford-Brown Institute - Multi-campus At Sanford-Brown Institute, youre only 9 months away from a career in Allied Health. Convenient day and evening classes start every five weeks, so you can get started quickly. Learn more today Somerset School of Massage Therapy - PiscatawayLocated in Piscataway, NJ offering Professional Track, Neuromuscular Therapy, Shiatsu, Spa Therapies and massage therapy programs. Somerset School of Massage Therapy - Wall TownshipLocated in Wall Township, NJ offering Professional Track, Neuromuscular Therapy, Shiatsu, Spa Therapies and massage therapy curriculums The Chubb Institute - Cherry Hill Located in Cherry Hill, NJ offering Masssage Therapy curricula. The Cittone Institute - Edison Located in Edison, PA offering Medical & Healthcare and Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork Technology The Cittone Institute - Mount LaurelLocated in Mount Laurel, PA offering Computer and Medical, Healthcare, Pharmacy Technician & Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork Technology The Cittone Institute - Paramus Located in Paramus, PA offering Computer and Medical & Healthcare and Massage Therapy curriculums
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New Mexico Apollo College of New Mexico Located in Albquerque, New Mexico offering Massage Therapy curricula.
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New York Healing Hands InstituteGet the knowledge, training and personalized attention to launch a career you'll love. We focus exclusively on massage, 6 month program, affordable.
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Ontario, Canada Everest College - Barrie Located in Barrie, Ontario, offering Massage Therapy curriculums. Everest College - Hamilton Mountain Located in Ontario and offering Massage Therapy & Physiotherapist Assistant / Occupational Therapist Assistant curriculums. Everest College - Mississauga Located in Mississauga, Ontario, offering Massage Therapy curriculums. Everest College - Ottawa East Located in Ottawa, Ontario offering Massage Therapy curricula. Everest College - Thunder Bay Located in Thunder Bay, Ontario, offering Massage Therapy curriculums. Everest College - Toronto Central Located in Toronto, Ontario, offering Massage Therapy curriculums. Everest College - Toronto South Located in Toronto, Ontario, offering Massage Therapy & Physiotherapist Assistant / Occupational Therapist Assistant curriculums.
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Oregon Apollo College Apollo College has helped over 45,000 graduates realize their dream of a career in healthcare. Now its your turn. Choose from seven conveniently located campuses. Ashmead College - Portland Located in Tigard, Oregon offering Massage Therapy curriculum. Pioneer Pacific College - Wilsonville - Health Career Institute Located in Wilsonville, Oregon, offering Massage Therapy, Medical & Healthcare curricula.
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Pennsylvania Academy of Medical Arts and Business Located in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, offering Massage Therapy curricula. Allied Medical & Technical Institute - Scranton Located in Scranton, PA offering massage therapy and Medical Curriculum Allied Medical & Technical Institute - Forty Fort Located in Forty Fort, PA offering massage therapy and Medical Curriculums. Berks Technical Institute Located in Wyomissing, Pennsylvania, offering Massage Therapy curricula. Center for Certification and Adult LearningLocated in Pittsburgh, PA offering Computerized Accounting, Computerized Office Assistant, E-Commerce/ Web Design, Medical Assisting, Medical Coding, Microsoft Network Professional (MCSE), Microsoft Network Professional Plus (MCSE/A ), Network Security Analyst (Security ), and Massage Therapy curricula. The Cittone Institute - Plymouth Meeting Located in Plymouth, PA offering Computer and Medical, Healthcare & Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork Technology curriculums Western School of Health and Business At Western School of Health and Business Careers, you can get the real-world skills you need to launch a rewarding and exciting career in healthcare or business.
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Rhode Island Career Education Institute - Lincoln Located in Lincoln, Rhode Island offering Massage Therapy curricula.
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Tennessee High-Tech Institute - Memphis Located in Memphis, Tennessee offering Massage Therapy, Medical Coding And Billing, Medical Assistant and Surgical Technologist. High-Tech Institute - NashvilleLocated in Nashville, Tennessee offers cirricula in Computer Networking & Information Technology, Medical, Massage Therapy, Dental, and Digital Design & Animation.
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Texas ATI Career Training Center - Dallas Massage Therapy Located in Texas and offering Massage Therapy ATI Dallas Medical and Massage Located in Dallas, Texas, offering Dental Assisting, Massage Therapy, Medical Assisting and Respiratory Therapy curricula. High-Tech Institute - IrvingLocated in Irving, Texas offers career training cirricula in Computer Networking & Information Technology, Medical, Dental and Massage Therapy. MTI College of Business and Technology - East Side Campus Located in Houston, Texas, offering Massage Therapy curricula. MTI College of Business and Technology - Southeast Houston Campus Located in Houston, Texas, offering Massage Therapy curricula. The Academy of Health Care Professions - Houston North Loop Located in Houston, Texas, offering Massage Therapy curricula.
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Utah Provo College - ProvoLocated in Provo, Utah, offering Accounting & Finance, Design, Business, Computer, Dental, Hospitality Management, Massage Therapy, Healthcare and Office Professional curricula. Accounting & Finance Training Located in West Valley City, UT offering Massage Therapy. Utah Career College Located in West Jordon, Utah offering Massage Therapy curricula. Utah College of Massage Therapy- Salt Lake City Campus Located in Salt Lake City, Utah, offering Massage Therapy curruculum. Utah College of Massage Therapy- Utah Valley Campus Located in Lindon, Utah, offering Massage Therapy curriculum. Southwest Academy of Healing ArtsMassage therapy school with the most complete clinically orientated education and training in order to bridge the gap between massage and modern medicine.
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Virginia Northern Virginia School of Therapeutic MassageThe Northern Virginia School of Therapeutic Massage provides an opportunity for students to obtain the necessary skills to become a successful massage therapist in just 6 months. We are proud to offer several types of massages, including Swedish, Sports and Chair Massage. Job placement is available upon graduation. Kee Business College - ChesapeakeLocated in Chesapeake, VA offering: Diplomas in Computerized Office Applications, Dental Assisting, Massage Therapy, Medical Administrative Assistant, Medical Assisting, and Medical Insurance Billing & Coding. Medical Careers Institute- Newport News Located in Virginia, they offer the following curriculum: Dental Assistant, Medical Assisting, Medical Office Specialist, Medical Transcriptionist, Massage Therapist, Practical Nursing Medical Careers Institute- Richmond Located in Virginia, offering the following curriculum: Dental Assistant, Medical Assisting, Medical Office Specialist, Medical Transcriptionist, Massage Therapist, Practical Nursing Parks College Get the education you need to succeed in whichever field you choose. Parks Colleges career-focused curriculum can help you take your career to the next level.
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Washington Ashmead College - Fife Located in Fife, Washington offering Massage Therapy curriculum. Ashmead College - Seattle Located in Seattle, Washington offering Massage Therapy and Personal Training curricula. Ashmead College - Vancouver Located in Vancouver, Washington offering Massage Therapy and Personal Training curricula. Everest College Get the knowledge, training and personalized attention youll need to launch a career youll love at Everest College. Everest Colleges mission is to provide quality, job-relevant training to men and women of all ages and backgrounds. Meet the challenges of tomorrow head on with programs including: Business Management, Business Operations, Dental Assisting, Massage Therapist, Medical Administrative Assistant, Medical Assisting, Pharmacy Technician and more.
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Wisconsin Herzing CollegeTake control of your career at Herzing College in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Day and evening classes are offered in Design/CAD and Medical/Dental programs.
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What is the work like?
Massage therapists may use their hands, elbows or feet to knead and manipulate soft body tissue. Massage can be used to:
- improve muscle and skin tone
- aid circulation
- rid the body of toxins.
As a massage therapist, you could use your massage skills to help clients with both physical and emotional healing. You could treat a range of clients, including:
- people recovering from a period of sickness
- individuals who need support when they are ill
- adults who want to manage stress more effectively
- people who want to develop their level of physical relaxation.
You could specialise in a particular branch of massage, such as:
- Indian head massage – this involves using particular oils and techniques to relax the neck, shoulders, head and face
- sports massage – this area includes the treatment of sports injuries such as sprains, torn ligaments and broken limbs
- baby massage – this branch can bring calming benefits to both parent and baby
- body massage (also known as Swedish massage) – this covers the whole body, especially the limbs and back.
You would usually begin a session by taking a detailed medical history and asking the client about their health and lifestyle. During treatment you would apply pressure to specific areas to ease tension and help restore the body’s natural balance. You may also use essential oils. After treatment, you would give the client further advice about how to maintain and build upon their general wellbeing.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
To work as a professional massage therapist you need to complete a course that includes around 100 to 150 hours' theoretical study, as well as treatments observed by an assessor or tutor, case studies and a practical exam. Shorter courses tend to be introductory or for general interest only and are not usually suitable as a preparation for professional practise.
You can take massage courses offered by several awarding bodies, such as the Vocational Training Charitable Trust (VTCT) and International Therapy Examination Council (ITEC); check their websites for details. Some courses also meet the criteria for membership of a professional body – you should check this before you enrol.
Course entry requirements can vary, and for some you will need GCSEs (A-C) in English and biology or a BTEC, VTCT or ITEC Certificate or Diploma in anatomy and physiology.
The structure and content of the course you choose should reflect the National Occupational Standards developed by Skills for Health, the Sector Skills Council for Health. Check the Skills for Health website for details.
You may be able to get into this job through a beauty therapy Apprenticeship scheme. The range of Apprenticeships available in your area will depend on the local jobs market and the types of skills employers need from their workers. For more information on Apprenticeships, visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk.
The Prince's Foundation of Integrated Health (PFIH) is working to develop a single, regulatory body for complementary therapies, expected to be launched during 2008. Check the PFIH website for details.
What further training and development can I do?
Training as a massage therapist will often combine a series of training days or weekends with home assignments. Once you are on an in-depth massage course, you will usually study subjects such as:
- anatomy and physiology (in detail)
- classical massage techniques
- full body massage movements
- health and safety issues (including your own posture when giving massages)
- record keeping
- reviewing changes in a client's health and well being over a period of time
- practical business skills.
Some courses also lead to membership of a professional body such as:
- the Federation of Holistic Therapists
- the British Register of Complementary Practitioners (see ICM website)
- the General Council for Massage Therapy (this organisation is working with other professional bodies to create a national register of massage practitioners).
Each organisation can provide details of additional membership criteria and acceptable qualifications. As a member of a professional body you will have access to continuing professional development programmes and networking opportunities.
If you wish to specialise in a particular form of massage, such as baby and infant massage or sports massage, you will need further training in that specific branch. For more details you could check the websites of the Guild of Infant and Child Massage, and the Sports Massage Association.
The Massage Training Institute provides advice and information on general, holistic massage, but they cannot give details on specialised areas, such as Indian head massage.
Where can I go for more information?
33 - 41 Dallington StreetLondon
EC1V 0BB
Tel: 0203 1193 100
Eastleigh House
Upper Market Street
Eastleigh
Hampshire
SO50 9FD
Tel: 023 8068 4500
London
SE16 7QZ
Tel: 020 7231 5855
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