| Spa Wellness Articles :: Program Descriptions & Career Overviews |
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| Massage Therapy Studies - Massage Therapy Programs |
| by CB Staff |
Massage therapy is the practice of relaxing and healing the body through the manipulation and kneading of muscles and tendons. Depending on the type of massage they have studied, massage therapists can employ a variety of techniques and methods in their treatments. From kneading deep into the muscle tissue of pro-athletes, to feather-light touches on the faces of babies, massage therapy covers a vast array of disciplines and while serving a wide variety of patients.
What You'll Learn
In receiving an education in massage therapy, you'll learn how to correctly massage and manipulate a patient's muscles and tendons in order to soothe their aches and relieve any tension. Because there are so many types of massage therapy available, a student can learn to use anything from their bare hands to heated stones.
Degree Types
Within the United States, an individual can earn a certificate, diploma, and/or degree in massage therapy.
Career Paths
After becoming licensed as a massage therapist, a graduate can gain employment with a spa, hotel, sports center, doctor's office, or salon. However, the majority of massage therapists are self-employed, with a significant amount running their own massage therapy businesses.
Job Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment within the massage therapy field is expected to increase by 18 to 26 percent between 2004 and 2014.
Licensing and Accreditation Information
Licensure to practice massage therapy differs from state to state within the U.S. Massage programs and schools, meanwhile, can be accredited by a state accrediting agency and/or outside organization. In addition, some states require that a massage therapist receive national certification in order to practice massage therapy. National certification may be attained after passing an exam administered by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB), and successfully meeting the board's educational requirements.
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