Massage therapy is used to treat painful medical conditions, decompress tired and overworked muscles and joints and reduce stress. Athletes and fitness enthusiasts utilize massage as well as anyone looking to improve their general health. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the field of massage therapy is expected to grow significantly by 2016 as more and more people learn of the benefits of massage and training becomes more widespread and available.
Modalities
The BLS reports that there are more than 80 modalities of massage, each requiring specialized training. Different types of massage range from Swedish massage to reflexology, deep tissue massage and sports therapy massage.
Requirements
Washington D.C. and 38 other states have requirements for the number of hours of training for massage therapists to receive a license. Each state's requirements can be accessed through the Massage Register.
Availability
There are approximately 1,500 massage therapy schools and training programs in the United States.
Curriculum
The curriculum of massage therapy training programs typically consists of instruction in anatomy, kinesiology and physiology as well as study about organs and tissue.
Accreditation
Most states require graduation from an accredited training program to be eligible for a license to practice. Training should prepare students to take the National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork provided by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork.
Continuing education
To keep their license, most massage therapists participate in continuing education that could include study in additional modalities, such as massage for infants and seniors.
Member Comments