How to Become a Massage Therapist

Massage Therapist Tulsa manipulates soft-tissue muscles of the body, relieving pain and treating health conditions. They can work in spas and clinics, and some are self-employed.

A medical massage therapist is trained to treat specific health conditions that a doctor has diagnosed. This form of therapy is used in palliative care, helping patients cope with symptoms such as cancer and fibromyalgia.

A Massage Therapist is a health care professional who uses hands-on techniques to manipulate soft tissues, including muscles, skin, ligaments and tendons, to promote relaxation, relieve pain, and enhance overall wellbeing. Licensed Massage Therapists also have a specialized understanding of the physiology, pathology and anatomy of the human body.

Qualifications for becoming a massage therapist include completing an approved educational program, passing a state-approved examination (such as the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination) and meeting other state-specific requirements. Most programs combine in-class learning with hands-on training to give students the opportunity to learn a variety of massage techniques and develop the skills needed for successful practice.

Massage therapists must be able to evaluate each client and determine what types of massage therapy are most appropriate for that individual’s needs and goals. This requires good judgment and an ability to empathize with each client’s pain and discomfort. Physical strength and stamina are necessary for maintaining the correct pressure on the client while performing treatments for long periods of time.

Many massage therapists choose to build a private practice, which offers them flexibility and autonomy in their work schedule. As a result, effective communication skills are essential for establishing rapport with clients and explaining how massage therapy can benefit their wellness and health goals. Massage therapists also document and maintain accurate client records, including treatment plans, progress notes and any other relevant information. These records are kept confidential at all times.

Education

The education required to be a Massage Therapist varies from state to state, but most programs last about a year and include training in specific disciplines such as infant massage or rehabilitative massage. Students are also typically taught basic first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). It is important to choose a program that meets licensure requirements in your state.

During the educational process, massage therapists study anatomy, including the location and function of skin-integumentary, muscular (including origins, insertions and actions), circulatory, lymphatic, digestive, respiratory, skeletal, and endocrine systems, as well as massage techniques such as effleurage, friction, petrissage, vibration, tapotement, joint manipulations and connective tissue therapy. During the clinical experience, massage therapists practice their skills on members of the public and are graded on their performance.

Once students have completed their education, most states require they pass a licensing exam to become licensed. The Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) is usually a two-hour multiple-choice test that includes questions on subjects like anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, patient assessment, ethics, and massage techniques. In some states, a board certification exam may be necessary in addition to the MBLEx.

Being a Massage Therapist can be physically demanding and requires stamina and strength. In order to avoid muscle strain, it is recommended that massage therapists maintain good posture and stretch daily to prevent stiffness and maintain flexibility. It is also critical that they keep hydrated in order to support muscle function and energy levels. In addition, Massage therapists must be able to manage their client appointments and schedules. A robust appointment scheduling and reminder app will save therapists time by automating the client communication process, including sending SMS text confirmation and reminder messages.

Experience

Massage therapists must have the skills to evaluate and perform therapeutic massage techniques on patients. This requires a strong background in anatomy and the ability to understand pathologies that may limit massage or pose risks to the client. Massage therapists also must have the ability to communicate effectively with their clients. They must listen to their clients and provide feedback to improve the effectiveness of the treatment. In addition, they must be able to maintain accurate patient records and documentation.

The massage therapist must have the physical ability to stand for long periods of time to complete the session and must be able to manipulate the body with their hands and arms. They must be able to maneuver and lift patients for massage sessions, as well as set up tables and equipment. Massage therapists often work in spas or private practices, but some work for hospitals or other healthcare organizations.

In a hospital or other healthcare setting, massage therapists are a part of an integrated team that includes acupuncturists, nurses, physicians and physical therapists. Integrative models of healthcare are becoming more common, and this is an excellent opportunity for a licensed massage therapist to build their career.

Depending on the state, licensure requires 500 to 1,000 hours of massage therapy training. A massage therapist who has completed an accredited program is more likely to meet the educational requirements for licensure, and it will make them more competitive in the job market. Licensed massage therapists can seek board certification through the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork to demonstrate professional achievement. This will help to distinguish them in the job market and increase their potential earnings.

Certification

After completing your massage therapy program, it is time to pass your state’s licensing exam. The Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx) is currently the industry standard exam accepted by all states. Once you have passed your state’s massage therapy exam, you can begin practicing as a professional Massage Therapist. You should also continue to build your career skills by taking continuing education courses and by networking with other professionals in the field.

Anatomy and Physiology: Includes location, structures, and functions of the skin-integumentary system; joints and their functions; muscular (incl. origins, insertions, and actions); and the lymphatic, circulatory, immune, digestive, respiratory, and skeletal systems; this section makes up 50% of the exam.

Techniques: Includes effleurage, friction, petrissage, vibration, rocking, trigger point therapy, connective tissue therapy, and tapotement; these make up the remaining 25% of the exam. The NBCHSPA also expects you to know the purpose and use of massage oils and powders, the effects of heat and cold on the body, and how to assess a client for fitness to receive massage.

Lastly, the NBCHSPA expects you to be familiar with law and regulations relating to practice of Massage Therapy including licensing, advertising, client records, etc. They also expect you to understand how to recognize and report abuse, neglect, and/or improper conduct by a Massage Therapist or any other health profession.

Once you have passed your certification and licensure exams, you can start working in a massage clinic or even begin your own private practice. You can also choose to teach massage therapy or offer continuing education workshops for other Massage Therapists. Whatever your chosen path, you can enjoy a lucrative career with excellent job prospects.

Licensing

Licensed Massage Therapists (LMTs) are required to meet state requirements including completing training hours, passing a licensing exam and regularly taking continuing education courses. This legal recognition helps protect the public by establishing a standard of practice and providing consumers with a formal grievance process for complaints against unlicensed practitioners.

In addition, LMTs must have a clean criminal record and provide proof of liability insurance. It is also a good idea for Massage Therapists to obtain a background check before starting their career in order to ensure they have not been convicted of a crime that would hinder their ability to work with clients.

Those who want to become licensed Massage Therapists must pass the MBLEx, or the Massage and Bodywork Licensure Examination. This is a 100-question test that is regulated by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards and is specifically designed to assess whether an individual has the necessary skills to safely perform massage and bodywork treatments.

For those that are already licensed in another state, country or territory, you may be able to apply for licensure by endorsement through the NYSED. This process can vary a bit depending on how long you’ve been practicing and your license status in your previous jurisdiction.