The Growing Field of Massage Therapy
Massage therapy is one of the up-and-coming programs in the field of Complementary and Alternative Medicine. But what exactly is massage therapy and why all the hype for this emerging and growing field?
Massage Therapists are familiar with 80 different types of treatments; the most common to us being Swedish Massage, Deep Tissue, Reflexology and Sports Massage. These treatments can last from 5 minutes to 2 hours depending on the intended amount of relaxation.
Massage therapy has actually been around much longer than you think. This field is believed to date back to 3000 B.C.E., stemming from countries like China, India, Egypt, Japan, Greece and Italy. It is believed to have originated in Egypt and Eastern civilizations like China, according to texts documenting the benefits of massage. Hippocrates, dubbed the father of medicine, regards massage in the utmost light, preaching that upward strokes could help eliminate natural wastes from the body. (Natural Healers Massage Therapy Through the Ages, http://www.naturalhealers.com/qa/massage-therapy-history.shtml)
So why is massage therapy all of a sudden considered the new "it" field? With America's growing demand for complementary and alternative medicines, the field of massage therapy has seen a boom in those seeking its services. Many consumers are now in search for all-natural healing methods, as opposed to the use of pharmaceutical prescribed medication. Studies have shown enormous benefits of massage as an alternative method of treatment. Massage's positive effects range from improvements in depression, high blood pressure, diabetes, back pain and reducing infertility.
Countless studies show numerous beneficial outcomes massage therapy treatments have on the overall healing process of individuals. Some studies even discuss the benefits of massage therapy on cancer patients. A study funded in part by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, consisted of 380 participants with advanced stages of cancer undergoing 2 types of massage therapy treatments; 30 minute massages over 6 weeks, or simple touch therapy for 2 weeks. "Results of the study showed that both groups experienced statistically significant improvements in pain relief, physical and emotional distress, and quality of life. Immediate improvement in pain and mood was greater with massage than with simple touch." (National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, http://nccam.nih.gov) This study further explores the physical and psychological improvements of massage therapy. "Physically massage may decrease inflammation and swelling, improve circulation, help with muscle spasms, and emotionally may help individuals with cancer relax, and cause the release of chemicals in the body (endorphins) that help with pain." (About.com Lung Cancer, http://lungcancer.about.com)
Clients who are looking to relieve the pressures and tensions of everyday stress most frequently use massage on a regular basis. Due to the high beneficial factor and steady clientele, this will ensure the steady rise in demand for massage therapists. Because the field has become highly recognized in the world around us, the job outlook is extremely positive and on the rise. According to the US Department of Labor, "Employment of massage therapists is expected to increase by 19 percent from 2008 to 2018, faster than the average for all occupations. Employment will grow as more people learn about the benefits of massage therapy." Because of the growth, states are recognizing the fields' importance for education and state licensure, which has opened the door for students to choose a career in massage therapy. Many schools offer massage therapy, but it is important to choose the school that best suits your needs.
What to look for when choosing the right school?
Proper credentials
- Make sure they are accredited
- Make sure they have a valid license
Do your research
- Find a School that meets your needs
- Flexible hours
- Compare school program costs
Certification
- Make sure the school and exam you take will cover your particular state
Post Graduation
- Compare salaries in your local area
- Make sure the demand in your area is greater than the supply
You can find out which licensure is required by your state by visiting the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards website at http://www.fsmtb.org/index.html.
Editorial provided by Jessica Zimmerman, Marketing Manager at Allied Health Institute.
