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| Category: Massage Therapy Schools |
Date published: July 31, 2008 |
Massage Therapy Career Outlook 2008
by CarolAnn Bailey-Lloyd
 Like many of today's hot professional trends, the massage therapy field is an excellent occupation to pursue -- especially for those who have successfully completed in-depth educational programs.
While there are numerous opportunities for professionally-licensed massage therapists, there are also diverse work settings from which to choose as well. Among some of the more popular working environments including hospitals, physical therapy clinics, and wellness centers -- experienced bodyworkers can reap the benefits of working aboard luxury cruise lines, at exotic resorts, and health retreats, among other unique settings.
Training and Advancement
Two of the most important steps toward achieving your career in massage therapy are exploring the various training options available to you and your State requirements necessary to practice this healing art. In addition to community and technical colleges, massage therapy programs are generally offered at professional massage schools and institutions. A basic massage curriculum is comprised of studies in anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, massage history and concepts, as well as business management. Other hands-on training includes CPR and first aid, Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, and sports massage.
Some of the many modalities that are taught in advanced massage therapy programs (in addition to aforementioned therapies) include acupressure, Chinese medical massage, geriatric massage, infant/prenatal massage, craniosacral therapy, myofascial release, Indian head massage, neuromuscular therapy, trigger point therapy, chair massage, hydrotherapy, hot stone massage, Lomi Lomi, lymphatic drainage, and more.
Depending in which State you reside, typical training hours range between 300 and 500 hours (with a number of advanced training programs that exceed 1,000 hours). In order to attain national certification, however, you will need to complete a minimum of 500 instructional hours in an accredited massage therapy program. Examination for national certification is conducted by the NCBTMB (National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork). Additionally, as with most healthcare occupations, it is necessary for professional massage therapists to maintain educational and training standards through continuing education programs.
Massage Career Outlook
Massage therapy careers are on the rise. With very good job opportunities expected through the year 2016, those who enter the profession should have little difficulty attaining entry-level employment. Furthermore, licensed massage therapists have the potential to earn over $33 hourly.
Because natural healthcare and alternative medicine has steadily grown in popularity in these last few decades, massage therapists provide an active role in meeting these demands. Aside from being an asset to the natural healthcare industry, massage therapists provide essential services to patients by helping relieve chronic pain, stress, and other common health conditions.
Want to Learn More?
If you (or someone you know) are interested in learning more about this or other natural health careers like massage therapy, let professional training within fast-growing industries like bodywork, naturopathy, acupuncture, chiropractic, Reiki, and others get you started! Explore massage therapy courses near you.
*Sources - BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics)
Massage Therapy Career Outlook 2008
© Copyright 2008
Media Positive Communications, Inc.
All Rights Reserved
Resource Box: CarolAnn Bailey-Lloyd - Former staff writer for HolisticJunction.com, Educational Resources for Healing Arts Schools, Acupuncture Schools, and other unique training programs.
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