Massage Therapy Offers Multiple Healing Options
By Karen LawsonKaren.Lawson@medicalhealthcarecareerschools.com
Medical Healthcare Career Schools Columnist
Massage therapists offer a wide variety of healing techniques, also called modalities, designed to do much more than relieve muscular pain. Acupressure is a massage therapy technique using pressure applied to specific points on the body to achieve pain relief or healing of chronic conditions.
Massage Therapy: From Medical History to Present Popularity
Massage therapists study healing techniques that have been around thousands of years. As the popularity of spas, massage, and "hands-on" stress relief and healing techniques increase, the need for massage therapists is expected to increase at faster than average rates through 2014. Most states require some post-secondary education and licensing to practice massage therapy. Coursework may include anatomy, physiology, the study of body motion and mechanics, study and hands-on practice of modalities, business, and ethics. Licensing and credentialing requirements vary by state, so it's a good idea to determine your state's licensing requirements before registering for training in massage therapy.Massage Tables at Venice Beach to State-of-the-Art Health Care
Many massage therapists are self-employed. They supply their own equipment, and may transport tables and equipment to visit clients at home or office. Massage therapists may also participate in public health fairs as a means of attracting new clients. Establishing a client following is important in massage therapy, as most modalities require a series of treatments. As massage therapists build a clientele and establish professional reputations, they may affiliate with hotels, health resorts, sports medicine clinics, and traditional medical practices. Successful massage therapists may enjoy affiliations with several facilities.Career Alternatives in Massage Therapy
As a licensed massage therapist, you have many choices for pursuing a successful career. Whether you work as a solo practitioner, or affiliate with health-care providers, spas, and resorts, you can assist clients while practicing multiple healing techniques.Source:
Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Handbook
About the Author
Karen Lawson is a freelance writer whose interests include alternative health care and medical humanities. She earned a master’s degree in English from the University of Nevada.
Posted on: May 19, 2006
