What Does a Massage Therapist Do? A Comprehensive Guide

Massage therapists are professionals who use their hands to manipulate and knead the soft tissues, muscles, and joints of their clients. They work in a variety of settings, such as spas, franchised clinics, doctor's offices, hotels, and fitness centers. Some massage therapists even travel to clients' homes or offices to provide their services. Massage therapists use a variety of tools, such as massage tables or chairs, massage oils and body lotions, and even the powers of water, heat, light, sound and electricity to aid in therapeutic treatment.

A key element of their work is to evaluate each patient individually and develop personal therapy plans. They must also be able to interact with clients who are suffering from pain while remembering their training when applying massage therapy. To become a certified massage therapist, one must have graduated from a state-authorized massage program with at least 500 hours of formal training and have passed the national NCBTMB exam. Massage therapy jobs are available at franchises, fitness centers, spas, resorts and self-employment.

There are different types and modalities of massage therapy, such as deep tissue massage, sports massage, Swedish massage, neuromuscular massage and reflexology. Massage therapists can also work in a variety of healthcare settings. During the massage session, the masseur can play relaxing music and diffuse essential oils while performing repetitive movements to reduce tension. In conclusion, massage therapists are professionals who use their hands to manipulate and knead the soft tissues, muscles, and joints of their clients. They work in a variety of settings and use different tools to aid in therapeutic treatment.

To become a certified massage therapist one must have graduated from a state-authorized massage program with at least 500 hours of formal training and have passed the national NCBTMB exam. Massage therapy jobs are available at franchises, fitness centers, spas, resorts and self-employment.

Mark Szymonik
Mark Szymonik

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