A Career in Massage Therapy

For centuries, massage has been a part of wellness programs used in many cultures. Europe and Asia have made this form of complementary heath care a part of their mainstream lifestyle for some time. In the past decade or so, the United States has not only embraced massage as an industry, but it has included massage services in a range of settings from chiropractic offices to cruise ships.

There are common qualities that students interested in becoming massage therapists tend to share. An open mind, paired with an open heart, is essential in this field. A person must be ethical, compassionate, and ready to make a difference. There is little more satisfying than interviewing a client before a session begins, reviewing his/her condition, and seeing a noticeable difference when the session concludes.

Once a student has made the decision to become a massage therapist, choosing the right school is next on the agenda. Massage schools, like many other types of trade schools, come in a variety of sizes and with a variety of distinctions. There are schools that specialize in neuromuscular therapy (trigger point therapy), sports massage, and various Asian modalities.

• It is very important that a student research the massage laws that apply to the geographic location in which he/she plans to make a career. Currently, 38 states and the District of Columbia regulate massage therapists. In the states that regulate massage therapy, massage therapists must meet the legal requirements to practice, which may include minimum hours of initial training and passing an exam.
• In states that do not regulate massage therapists, this task may fall to local municipalities.

A student should be prepared to work hard for this rewarding career. Massage school curriculums do not only include the daily giving and receiving of massage, but the science of massage and the human body will be taught in Anatomy and Physiology classes. Throughout the program, one can expect to learn most of the muscles in the body, as well as their origins, insertions, and actions. The nerves, organs, and systems of the body may also be covered in detail.

A graduate of massage school may expect to work in settings such as day spas, health clubs, and fitness centers. Everyday, more and more businesses rely on the skills of massage practitioners. Cruise ships, hair salons, and physical therapy offices now consider massage a necessary component to their organizations. Also, a massage therapist may work for him/herself in private practice.

Massage therapy is a growing profession. There rarely seems to be a lack of employment opportunities available to a massage practitioner. Whether working alone, or in conjunction with another business, this can be one of the most rewarding fields of study available today.

Editorial provided by Michael Hendrix, Lead Admissions Representative at Atlanta School of Massage.