Everything you need to know about massage therapy
Massage has been utilized for thousands of years as a healing tool. For example, Hippocrates in ancient Greece advocated the benefits of massage as an essential therapeutic tool. At the same time, the Egyptians incorporated massage to improve spinal alignment and muscle function.
What are different types of massage therapy?
There are several types of massage. When we speak of massage here, we are describing a deep tissue therapeutic process that aims to affect change at a muscular and fascial level to release long-held restrictions. Creating change within a tight or restricted muscular region makes it possible to improve function and produce an overall sense of well-being.
Swedish Massage
Swedish Massage is the most common type of massage. It uses long, smooth strokes to promote relaxation and increase circulation.
Deep Tissue Massage
Deep Tissue Massage is a type of massage used to treat injuries and chronic pain. It uses slow, deep strokes to reach the deep layers of muscle and connective tissue.
Sports Massage
Sports Massage is a type of massage designed to help athletes recover from injuries and improve their performance. It uses a variety of techniques to address muscle tension and pain.
Trigger Point Massage
Trigger Point Massage is a type of massage used to treat trigger points or areas of tight muscle tissue. It uses pressure and friction to release the knots and alleviate pain. Myofascial trigger points are muscular “knots” that hurt when squeezed and can cause symptoms in other body areas.
Myofascial Release
Myofascial Release is a type of massage that is used to release restrictions in the fascia. It uses gentle, sustained pressure to lengthen and soften the tissue.
What is the role of a massage therapist?
A massage therapist is responsible for providing massages and other body treatments to clients. They may work in a spa, resort, or private practice setting.
Massage therapists must be able to assess a client’s needs and provide the appropriate type of massage. They must also be able to adapt their techniques to each individual client.
A massage therapist employs several techniques in a targeted manner to affect change and improve function. These may include Trigger Point Therapy, Sports massage, Myofascial Release, and Connective Tissue massage. Many massage therapists also provide supporting exercises that can assist in improving posture.
What are the health benefits of massage?
There are many health benefits associated with massage therapy. These include:
- reducing stress,
- improving circulation,
- relieve pain,
- improve range of motion,
- increase flexibility, and
- aid in the recovery from injury.
How can a massage therapist help improve my posture?
Massage can assist in you improving your posture by the targeted releasing of restrictions in the muscles and connective tissue that may be impacting your posture. This can lead to improved alignment and function. Additionally, strengthening and lengthening exercises prescribed by a massage therapist can help correct imbalances that may contribute to poor posture.
Massage Therapy Accreditation around the world
Massage Therapy Accreditation (US)
The National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) is the largest accrediting organization for massage therapists in the United States. The NCBTMB offers a national certification exam that massage therapists can take to become certified.
The National Certification Exam for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork is a multiple-choice exam that tests massage therapy theory and practice knowledge. The exam is offered twice per year, in the spring and fall.
What is required to become a massage therapist?
Massage therapists must complete a formal education program and pass a nationally recognized exam in most states. Formal education programs for massage therapy typically include anatomy, physiology, and massage techniques coursework. Programs may also include courses in business and ethics.
Most states require massage therapists to be licensed or registered. To be eligible for licensure or registration, candidates must complete a formal education program and pass a nationally recognized exam.
In addition to formal education and licensure, many massage therapists also complete continuing education courses to stay up-to-date on the latest trends in massage therapy.
Massage Therapy Accreditation around the world
Outside of the United States, there is no one centralized accrediting organization for massage therapists. However, many countries have their own national organizations that offer certification or registration.
Canada
The Canadian Federation of Massage Therapists (CFMT) is the largest organization for massage therapists in Canada. The CFMT offers a national certification exam that massage therapists can take to become certified.
United Kingdom
In the United Kingdom, the Federation of Holistic Therapists (FHT) is the largest organization for massage therapists. The FHT offers a national certification exam that massage therapists can take to become certified.
Other regions
Many other organizations around the world offer certification or registration for massage therapists. Some of these include the Australian Association of Massage Therapists (AAMT), the Japanese Society of Certified Massage Therapists (JSCMT), and the International Federation of Massage Therapy Associations (IFMTA).
Finally
Massage therapy is a popular form of treatment that offers many health benefits. To become a massage therapist, you must complete a formal education program and pass a nationally recognized exam. Many organizations around the world offer certification or registration for massage therapists. As with all treatments, make sure to seek advice from your doctor or health care provider.