Career Profile: Massage Therapist

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Job Description:

Massage therapist professionals skillfully apply hand techniques to the patient's body in order to boost blood circulation and relax tensed muscles. They administer body conditioning methods that can enhance joint mobility and range of motion. The stimulating and warming effect of body massages help patients to feel more relaxed by releasing body tension. An array of hand and pressure techniques is normally used by massage therapist professionals when conditioning the body.

A professional massage therapist will most likely assume the following duties and responsibilities:

• effectively treat patients either for medical or relaxation purposes
• use varying pressure techniques and massage methods to improve blood circulation
• ensure that the patient remains comfortable all throughout the massage session
• enhance relaxation by creating a stress-free environment
• center focus on areas of the body where tension is usually accumulated (like the back and shoulders)

Massage therapist professionals may choose to specialize on one or more massage techniques which typically include:

• Reflexology
• Shiatsu
• Swedish Massage
• Sports Massage
• Remedial Massage
• Relaxation Massage

Work Environment:

Even though majority opted to practice privately, there are still some who work in spas, healthcare facilities, rehabilitation centers, private clinics, and chiropractic offices. Full-time massage therapist professionals work 35 to 40 hours a week, while those providing private practices may work in extended hours. Massage therapist professionals work in a dimly-lit, clean, relaxing and comfortable massage room.

Education and Training Requirements:

Job requirements to practice the profession legally greatly vary from state-to-state. Some may require formal training, while others don't. Hence, it would be best if you get a formal education from accredited massage therapy schools. There are now plenty of community colleges and vocational schools offering massage therapy programs that cover topics in kinesiology, anatomy, physiology, massage techniques, and professional ethics. Depending on the state where you are planning to practice, you might be required to pass the exam issued by the National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage and Body Work.

Salary Range:

On the average, massage therapist professionals earn around $37,502 - $56,788 annually. While those who have higher professional standing with relevant experiences can receive up to $66,232 or more. Income rate of massage therapy professionals is influenced by certain factors, including practice setting, geographical location, area of specialization, and experience.

Job Outlook:

Employment outlook for massage therapist professionals is quite good. In fact, more job opportunities will be generated due to the increasing demand for qualified and certified massage therapist professionals in health spas, private massage centers, and rehabilitation facilities.

Don't waste time and start realizing your dreams by browsing through our comprehensive list of massage therapy schools!

• Deep Tissue Massage Schools
• Myofascial Release Schools
• Swedish Massage Schools
• Shiatsu Massage Schools
• Thai Massage Schools

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*Program Availability Varies By Location and Often Changes. To get the most up-to-date information, use the links we provide to request additional information from a local campus representative.