Physical Therapy Schools|Benefits Of Massage Therapy Schools

Choosing a career line to earn living is the fundamental concern of all. There are numerous vocations but one has to judge his/her inclination for the right job that would bring peace and prosperity. Physiotherapy is one domain that is rewarding in terms of both peace of mind and financial security. Physiotherapy is associated with the power of healing. Patient's physical ailments and pains are alleviated and their muscle movement is maximized using manual therapy, therapeutic exercises and electro-physical modalities. To achieve professional level of precision one is required to go through comprehensive physiotherapy courses.

Physiotherapy courses are usually described as:

Degree Courses in Physiotherapy

3-4 years of degree courses is typically completed through a university or community college to be an entry level physiotherapist. Coursework includes both theoretical and clinical studies and experiences by getting involved in actual case studies in healthcare settings. Students study subjects like anatomy, physiology, physics, psychology and pathology. Going forward with the advanced studies masters and doctoral degrees are obtained.

Accredited Physiotherapy Programs

Degree holders with relevant subjects studied have the option of going for shortened courses that eventually registers them as licensed physiotherapists. Licensing is very important in this profession. The Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) is tasked with ensuring that graduates are fit for the licensing exam. Once passed you are ready to start on as a physical therapist.

Part Time Physiotherapy Courses

Such courses are only offered to already employed physiotherapy assistants in healthcare settings. A number of institutes offer these types of courses.

Online Physiotherapy Courses

Again these courses are offered to degree holders (bachelor or master) in physical therapy and having a professional work experience in the field is a plus. A Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program is available online which is well crafted to impart advanced knowledge and clinical experience to already licensed and practicing physiotherapists.

Additionally, one can also choose to be a specialist in the field viz. geriatrics, pediatrics, orthopedics, neurological disordersand sports medicine are a few to name.

Completion of quality physiotherapy course and licensing welcomes promising career leads. A physiotherapist can either practice in hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, schools, offices, factories, fitness centers, sports facilities and even the homes of patients. They have the option of being a self employed professional or a hired physical therapist.

Boost in the career is bound to happen provided one is putting in hard work and perseverance. Even the US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the rate of employment for this profession is expected to rise by 30 percent. So if you are the one who have inclination towards care giving and healthcare then physiotherapy as a profession can earn you good credits.

Massage can rejuvenate the tired body and to get the best massage service, choosing the right massage therapist is very important. When the wrong masseur is chosen, customers will not enjoy the service. They will not experience the abilities of a professional massage therapist in relieving stress, removing the pain, loosening taut muscles and adding comfort. Numerous health benefits have been derived from massage and that makes it very popular. Clients must find the best massage therapist to suit their needs, and the search would be easier by experiencing the service first-hand.

The clients need to feel the actual service of the therapists before they can judge them in terms of their performance. The clients must also feel comfortable lying naked under a towel on the bed while a masseur renders his or her relaxing service. In that way, clients may familiarize themselves with their bodies' needs so they can tell the masseur about their specific massage needs.

Customers may prefer a massage session with a lot of chatting while others may like it to be peace and quiet. Clients may like hard or soft massage and whole or body part coverage when they seek the masseurs' services. Whatever the customers need, the therapist must be able to provide the best service.

In choosing the right massage therapist from, customers must be sure that the service provider can follow their requests to the letter. The masseur considers some factors in adjusting his or her approach based on the clients' requests. The therapist must also be skilled in various massage techniques that can allow him to satisfy the customers' various needs. He or she must be able to both give deep pressured and soft massage in all parts of the body.

The massage therapist must have the knowledge, skills and experience in providing services to his clients. His competencies are affected by aforementioned factors which may also make or break his career. Client satisfaction is also dependent on the factors and performance of the masseur.

Always remember to make sure that the massage therapist is accredited in their trade and have a license to practice massage therapy in their city or county. Generally speak, one doesn't want to end up in some fly-by-night massage parlor where questionable practices may arise. It's important to visit the therapist's website, read about what types of services they offer and read about where they earned their degree from.

Some masseurs may not be as good as the others since they may still be beginners, but considerations may be given by the clients. If the customer or client does not like the style of the business or the way the therapist does the job, it's always okay to find another therapist until you find the right one for you.

Massage therapy is a kind of treatment that uses only the most natural and safest method for healing and enhancing the lifestyle of a patient. Unlike conventional treatments that use technology as well as the medicines and drugs of modern days, most massage therapy methods are only using massage oils, thin needles, scented or essential oils and herbs as their primary source of medicine.

This type of treatment boasts its achievements and effectiveness over the past years since the development of the 80 different types of massage therapy methods. However, there are no solid proof and evidence by scientists stating how it beneficially works on the human body and what the exact effects are for the improvement of a patient's condition. These facts didn't stop the spread of the popularity of massage therapy as more and more people are adding this type of treatment to their regular medical care.

Massage therapy when done by those who are not licensed, knowledgeable and skilled in this type of natural healing method would be detrimental to the health of the patient as there could be some certain risks and health issues. Most cases of injuries are results of therapies done by unlicensed and massage therapies that are lacking in training and exact hours of medical experience. In the US, before a person who is applying to be a licensed and certified as a massage therapist can get a license, he or she should first comply with the required 1,000 hours of actual massage practice on a patient under the supervision of a trained and authorized masseuse.

Below are some of the complications, risks and injuries a patient can suffer in case the massage therapist is not licensed and knowledgeable in this art of natural healing:

1. Patients with soft bone tissues that tend to break easily are prone to bone fractures and such types of injuries. Improper application of pressure on the different parts of the body of the patient may definitely result to bone injuries. Massage therapies are taught on how to properly massage the different areas of the human body as well as to familiarize with the anatomy.

2. Cancer patients who are undergoing chemotherapy are prone to bone damages due to the effect of radiation, and other treatments which result to the reduction of the density of the bones. These patients also lack the immunity and healing recovery rate of a normal person which means that they are prone to different types of diseases and complications.

3. Patients who are suffering from blood clotting in their deep veins or people with deep vein thrombosis should never be allowed to have a massage therapy session as more and more complications will arise. The risk of heart attack or stroke is definitely to follow as the constant stimulation and applying of pressure and jarring on the different parts of the patient's body. The clot will then move and flow through the body resulting to the said heart problems.

4. Before a patient can actually receive comfort and whole body relaxation after a massage therapy, temporary discomfort and body pain sets in after a massage session.

There are a lot of different styles of massage therapy. When you look in your local phone book I bet you'll see massage advertisements that have remedial massage, sports massage, deep tissue massage, Thai, hot stone, relaxation, and the list goes on.

Surprising to most people, even though they categorize every technique into different slots. I put remedial massage as an umbrella term for most of these techniques. Remedial means that the techniques the therapist uses can remedy muscular and physical problems in the body. With the techniques they use they can change or have a positive therapeutic effect on the body.

So massage styles like deep tissue and sports are also remedial, because they can bring about change in the body's muscular and structural system. Certainly some massage techniques such as relaxation or hot stone are really not part of remedial massage, though they are still therapeutic on a relaxing level.

Remedial massage can:

Greatly relieve muscular aches and pains
It doesn't matter if it's an aching neck, arm, knee or foot, most general aches and pains are caused by tight, contracted muscles. Sometimes it may feel like you have something more sinister going on, but muscles can cause a variety of symptoms from sharp pain to a dull ache. Massage helps to break up the tight contracted muscles; therefore your pain is removed.

Help fix chronic pain problems or at least greatly reduce the painful symptoms
A lot of people think they have to live with their chronic pain problems. But having worked with numerous clients with chronic problems, I am here to tell you this is entirely untrue. Chronic problems come as a result of chronically tight and contracted muscles. The problems have progressed one step beyond a general ache and pain to incorporate a variety of muscles that are compensating and causing nerve irritation and inflammation, usually around the joints. Once your remedial massage therapist corrects these muscular compensations, your body is brought back to normal and your chronic pain miraculously disappears. Or at the very least your painful symptoms will be vastly reduced and manageable.

Provide deep muscular release from the build up of stress and promote relaxation
Although stress is an emotional response to environmental stimulation, stress has a huge effect on the body especially on the muscles. Have you ever noticed when you are stressed that you may hold your shoulders very stiff? Or maybe you notice that your neck feels tight? And often you feel more fatigued? This is because your muscles contract and tighten when you are stressed. So you can use remedial massage to get a really thorough release of all your muscles and this will instantly promote relaxation and calming.

Improve flexibility and mobility
Remedial massage is great for elderly people to help improve their flexibility and mobility. But it's not only old people who need help with getting their body moving better, it applies to young and middle-aged people as well. The body's mobility and flexibility naturally declines, as we get older. And due to the fact that most of us do not do enough exercise, our bodies will become stiff. Remedial massage can help to keep your body moving and functioning to its optimum capacity, with mobility and flexibility being two very important factors to consider.

These are just four amazing things remedial massage can do for you. It has so many great benefits that I simply can't list them all here. But I hope you can see what great value it can provide to your life by using it as a treatment method with your pain or problems. Or simply to keep your body moving and making you feel better all round.

Pediatric Physical Therapy is the special field of physical therapy that assists in the early detection of illness in children and uses a variety of methods of treatment. Licensed practitioners of pediatric physical therapy perform diagnosis, treatment proper, and health supervision of infants, children, and adolescents with a variety of developmental, neuromuscular, skeletal, or acquired health disorders. The role that physical therapists play in the rehabilitation of pediatric diseases could not be dejected as much as much as those of the special role of the pediatrician of child psychologist. Children with developmental delays or congenital and non congenital conditions - cerebral palsy, down syndrome, spina bifida, and torticollis are a few of the patients treated by pediatric physical therapy. All the same, children who are measured as 'normal' also benefit from the therapy as it directs the improvement of their total and refined motor skills, balance and coordination, strength and endurance as well as cognitive and sensory development.

We here all the time that growth and development is crucial in the early years - crucial and capable. Children's physiology is easy to mold into a correct form. Their health progress is receptive to performance of cardiovascular (aerobic) exercises as well as strength building (anaerobic) exercises. A plain touch therapy could make miracles. Yet let's put away all the medical formalities of physical therapy. Any activity done with the kids ought to be a fun activity - including pediatric physical therapy. Let us not put a promising pediatric physical therapy in the scary zone along with a knee-knocking first trip to the dentist. At any rate, a fun-filled pediatric therapy is part of the therapy. It's a great way to connect the kids with their parents, and to boost their self- esteem.

And all is possible even through a simple regular exercise. As children get involved in physical activities early in life, they have less chances of undergoing more stringent therapies in the future. There is definitely an explanation for the maxim, 'Prevention is better than cure'. Pediatric physical therapy clearly illustrates. And the children won't even know it. Make them do a soccer ball kicking, jumping jack, rolling, alternate toe touch, tumbling, arm circles, truck rotation, beach ball catch, or any exciting exercises you can come up with the therapist - complete with a game objective or music. With pediatric physical therapy, kids could feel kids again. They would feel the attention. And apart from the gentle touch, they'd feel loved.

For much of the past, getting a massage meant visiting a therapist at an office equipped with a massage table, oils and other specialized equipment. These days, mobile massage tables and other accessories have enabled massage therapists to perform their services at clients' homes and offices. Here's a look at the biggest advantages of mobile massage services for clients and therapists.

Lower Operating Costs

With the high rates involved in standard massage therapy, many clients are unable to spend as much time being massaged as they'd prefer. Overhead costs at an office can be tremendous, forcing massage therapists to charge higher rates in order to make a profit. Mobile massage reduces overhead costs dramatically, letting massage therapists perform their services for less and making massage affordable for more people than ever before.

Public Events

Since many mobile massage therapists are experienced at serving clients who are fully clothed, they're able to provide their services at public events, such as industry conventions. Business conventions leave many professionals tired and stressed, eventually destroying their morale and productivity. With the services of a mobile massage therapist, the entire atmosphere of the convention can enhance with the individual improvements in mood and energy. In many cases, simply knowing that there will be massage offered at an event is added incentive for professionals to attend.

Less Time Involved

Receiving a massage at a therapist's office involves making an appointment, driving to and from the office and waiting in a waiting room. Mobile massage eliminates this inconvenience, letting clients call massage therapists to their homes or offices and continue working in the meantime. As soon as the appointment is over, work or recreation can continue again without further interruption.

Workplace Productivity

Stressed employees can bring everybody down at work, resulting in the office getting less done as a team. Mobile message offers a simple, effective solution for this. By investing in a visit from a mobile massage service, employers can boost employee morale and enhance workflow at the office. This can also reduce stress for the manager, who can more easily concentrate on the big picture instead of handling issues among individual workers.

Reduce Worker Absenteeism

In recent years, preventative medical care such as massage has become more popular for improving immunity and reducing the risk of heart problems. Regular visits from mobile message services are very effective at reducing stress, which is a huge contributor to poor health. This way, workplaces can reduce absenteeism and frequent tardiness and postpone having to hire new workers due to disability among existing employees.

Many people find that the greatest benefit from message comes with regular treatments. With this in mind, many mobile massage services offer scheduling plans for regular therapy. Sometimes, discounts are available with these plans. Even single visits, however, are well worth the cost for preventative health care and peace of mind. Reduced pain, deeper sleep and better quality of life are all available from the comfort of home or the office with mobile massage services.

Lymph Drainage Therapy is a popular and scientifically proven type of light massage therapy conducted on the superficial layers of tissues on the human body that are high in efficacy and are successfully done without any risks during the therapy session whatsoever. Due to its popularity and effectiveness in dealing with health issues pertaining to the lymphatic circulatory system, the therapy has been considered and used as a part of the professional medical care in most hospitals, health centers, and clinics in Europe and some places world-wide.

The therapy was designed to fit as a gentle, safe, and effective alternative medical treatment that was developed by Bruno Chikly. The French Physician was able to formulate and materialize a therapy that has been used and is still being used today in solving the health problems that are in connection with the flow, accumulation, and drainage system of lymph and other fluids of the body.

There are many health benefits and amazing physical, mental, and emotional effects received when using the Lymph Drainage Therapy. During the therapy session, the massage therapist triggers the body's ability to activate and improve self-healing that is essential for optimum functioning of the organs, cells, and tissues of the body. Among these benefits include:

• Relieves stress, chronic fatigue, and tension - the gentle and smooth massage strokes are perfect for de-stressing a worn-out physical body including the mind after a laborious day. The stimulation of the nerves and superficial tissues are great for releasing tensions and in sending good messages to the brain.

• Maintains the right lymphatic drainage - the stimulation done on the lymphatic pathways both on the superficial and deep levels of the human body are capable of doing the job perfectly as compared when no human intervention is conducted.

• Keeps the lymphatic flow in check - it helps regulate the flow of lymph and other fluids that can cause health problems such as edema when not kept in proper amount.

• Relieves chronic body pain - the massage strokes and techniques performed by the massage therapist are capable of providing such treatment to the physical body of the client regardless of the treatment being designed for addressing lymphatic issues.

• Helps in the regeneration process of wounds, scars, and inflammations - the recovery of cells and tissues provides such magical effects to the skin of the client in the form of healing and removing these physical conditions that are unpleasant to look upon.

• Has anti-aging effects - the stimulating and soothing effects of the therapy are also great for promoting a younger looking skin as well as an alert senses.

• Boosts the immune system - regular use of LDT (Lymph Drainage Therapy) can help improve the immunity of the patient by keeping the body healthy inside and outside.

After being named one of the Top Jobs for 2012 by U.S. News and World Report, massage therapy is looking like a better and better option for budding professionals. Spas that offer massage services and dedicated massage clinics are increasing in number on a regular basis around the country. Massage therapy is considered a legitimate medicinal practice in the West like never before, and many people are jumping on the bandwagon once they see the benefits, leading to a continued increase in demand. Once you consider the facts, you might just decide to switch gears and pursue this rewarding career path.

The most impressive facts about the job outlook for careers in massage therapy come from the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. The bureau predicts 20 percent employment growth in this field between 2010 and 2020, which translates to an additional 30,000 jobs. It looks like the industry is well on its way to making these projections come true.

As far as salary goes, there is a great deal of potential for massage therapists to do quite well for themselves. The median annual salary for a massage therapist was a respectable $34,900 in 2010, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, but the top 10 percent of therapists working in the massage field make closer to $70,000 per year.

Getting into this field can be somewhat difficult, but for those who are passionate about their work in holistic medicine, the journey is well worth any such difficulties. Requirements vary by state, but some general requirements include the completion of a formal training program and somewhere in the neighborhood of 500 practice hours. There are also different areas of specialization that require additional training. Having more areas of expertise helps increase the chances of having a successful career in this field, though, so it's worth the extra time for the personal and financial rewards that should follow.

There are jobs available in hospitals, malls, private offices and spas, and some massage therapists even work from their homes, the clients' homes or the clients' places of work. Although the job outlook for massage therapists is very good right now, it's still important for massage therapists to set themselves apart from the competition. Many people are entering the job market and offering a variety of massage services, so it's important to find a way to get ahead of the pack.

As a massage therapist, your key to making money is by having clients come into your practice. To see a regular number of clients on a steady basis, you must have ways to get the word out about your practice, so people will be aware of what you have available. By using marketing ideas for massage therapists, you can learn what you need to do in order to get the clients rolling in. Another way of looking at massage marketing is that it is the way you let your community know that you can provide a solution to their problems. And the marketing ideas you come up with are the ways to make it possible for them to find out about you. It's really cut and dry. You must take certain steps that will ensure people will know about you and what you do.

Some great marketing ideas for massage therapists can be as simple as getting out and meeting people in your community. You can provide your own massage marketing by simply handing out your business card and/or flyer to passers-by.

Maybe you can stand in front of your practice, hand people a flyer, and tell them you are offering a discount on massages that day. Or, maybe you can offer a two for one special, meaning you can do two people at the same price.

If you live in an area where people are often stressed, you can highlight that in your literature and when you talk to people on the street. You don't have to be too expensive with your rates to start of with. Just give them a good deal.

By using such marketing ideas for massage therapists, you can be a part of that group of therapists that gets a lot of clients. Use massage marketing to your advantage. You don't have to just appear at street corners or in front of your practice. You can give a block party and invite everyone in your neighbourhood. Pass out flyers to all people. Advertise in your local paper. Let people know the day and time. When they come, you can hand out your card and give them special deals.

Why not write an article for your local paper. In the article you can talk about what you do and what your practice involves. Maybe you can go into the scientific aspect of massages and end the article by suggesting people stop by to find out more about it. People will be curious. By doing this, you will soon see how quickly people will come to your location, asking for a massage. When they get one and see how great you are, they will spread the word around town. Before you know it, your reputation as a massage therapist will spread quickly. You'll begin to see many clients come into your door.

Craniosacral therapy (CST) was developed about 30 years ago by John Upledger, DO. Dr. Upledger originally studied the practice of cranial osteopathy, which was devised by William Sutherland, DO in the early twentieth century, but adapted it based on his own research and personal observation during his career as an osteopathic physician.

Craniosacral therapy is based on several theories. The first of these is that the bones of the skull do not fuse completely in early childhood as is usually believed. Also, in his early career Dr. Upledger observed, while assisting during a surgical procedure, that the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord - the meninges - actually move rhythmically. At first it was thought that this rhythm was due to the heartbeat, but Dr. Upledger discovered that the rhythm of the meninges is a different pattern from that of the heartbeat.

Craniosacral therapists are taught to detect and evaluate the movement of the meninges by just holding the head and the base of the spine - the sacrum - very still and focusing on what they feel with their fingers and hand. After the evaluation, it is possible to very slowly and gently "adjust" the bones of the skull, so that the cerebrospinal fluid - the fluid lining the brain and spinal cord - can flow more naturally.

Craniosacral therapy is used for a wide range of symptoms, including neck and low back pain, chronic fatigue, temporomandibular joint syndrome, fibromyalgia and even emotional issues like depression and anxiety. It is especially good for chronic conditions that may have a neurological component, like coordination problems, hyperactivity and learning disorders. It has even been used to treat autism; Dr. Upledger has found that the meninges of most autistic children are unusually tight and that it is possible to loosen them during a CST treatment.

Craniosacral therapy is performed with the client lying on a treatment table while the therapist holds the head and/or the sacrum. The therapist's hands then move slightly as they do the needed adjusting. It may not feel like much is happening during the treatment; the therapist needs to maintain their concentration, so they don't talk much and the client, because they are not moving much themselves, may fall asleep. The effects are subtle and it can take a lot of sensitivity to notice them at first.

And what are the effects? To begin with, the client may notice that they are calmer and can concentrate more easily. Their posture or coordination may improve and they may have less pain; perhaps that nagging headache they've had is now gone. Or maybe they feel more optimistic about life in general. The issues in their life that have been a source of anxiety no longer seem so challenging - or hard to get over. (Because it has such a wide range of benefits, CST can be used in conjunction with other therapies, including emotional treatment.)

Craniosacral therapy can help people of all ages, from infants to elders. About the only time it is definitely not recommended is when there is a high-risk condition located in or affecting the brain or spinal cord, like an aneurysm or intracranial hemorrhage. The craniosacral therapist will obtain a medical history and may consult with a physician or other practitioner before doing a treatment.

Craniosacral therapy can be practiced by massage therapists, but it is not massage. It can be done by osteopathic physicians, but it's not an osteopathic adjustment. It takes special training to do this sort of work. But many people - practitioners and clients alike - swear by it and would never try anything else.

Of the approximately 1,300 cosmetology programs which are accredited through the National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences, some of the programs stand out in terms of reputation and curriculum. These schools arguably offer some of the best programs:

Aveda Institute

There are over 30 Aveda Institutes across the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, and Australia. Students at Aveda Institute learn top-notch technical skills and are trained according to Aveda's philosophies of environmental sustainability and personal well-being. Aveda is a professional product line featuring plant-based products. Aveda's cosmetology training covers haircutting, coloring, and texture services, and features Aveda's trademarked science of "aromaology" which is the study of scents, aromas, and beauty treatments. The massage and day spa training features classes in anatomy, basic massage, and hydrotherapy. Facials, waxing, makeup application, and "sugaring" is the focus of Aveda Institute's esthiology program, while nail technology training includes natural nail care, and spa manicures and pedicures. Aveda's cosmetology program costs approximately $17,000 for 1250 hours of training; the esthetics program costs $4000 for 300 training hours; the nail program fee is $2600 for 200 hours of training.

Empire Education Group

For more than 70 years, Empire Education Group has been in the cosmetology education business, and currently has over 87 schools located in 18 states. The focus at Empire is practical training in the following areas: cosmetology and hair styling, nail technology, esthetics, massage, and cosmetology instructor education. All the programs include training in salon management, communication, reception, marketing and sales. Empire Education Group is known for excellent career guidance services and for giving a high degree of personal attention to every student. Courses, costs, and hours of instruction vary in accordance with individual state requirements.

Ogle School of Hair, Skin, and Nails

Shelton Ogle founded Ogle School of Hair, Skin, and Nails in Texas over 25 years ago. There are currently four Ogle schools in Dallas, Fort Worth, Hurst, and Arlington, which offer three distinct programs: cosmetology operator, esthetology/facial, and student instructor. The cosmetology operator course features 1500 hours of intensive, hands-on training that prepares students for careers in hairstyling, makeup, and salon ownership. The esthetology/facial program includes 750 hours of advanced skin care training, and the student instructor course covers the principles of teaching both hands-on and theory skills to students. Ogle Schools have classes starting every month, and offer both day and evening classes for the cosmetology operator and esthetology/facial programs. Another feature that sets Ogle apart from other cosmetology schools is their Career Service Coordinator, who starts assisting students with job identification and interview preparation from the first day of class.

Paul Mitchell Schools

There are 10 Paul Mitchell Schools in the state of California, as well as another 50 schools in 25 other states. Paul Mitchell schools have very competitive enrollment requirements, which accept only the most dedicated students and set their graduates apart from those of many other cosmetology programs. Paul Mitchell Schools offer three areas of training: Basic Cosmetology, the Skin Academy, and the Nail Academy. The basic cosmetology course is heavily focused upon hair design, and students learn cutting, coloring, multicultural styling, makeup application, and general fashion trends. The Skin Academy covers skin treatments, waxing, skin analysis, ingredient technology, makeup technique, and the principles of retailing. The Nail Academy trains students on the concepts of beauty of the hands and feet, products, and trends. All three programs include business skills training including marketing, merchandizing, and advertising. The schools base their education on the world famous John Paul Mitchell product line, which was introduced in 1980.

Regency Beauty Institute

Regency Beauty Institute has 30 schools in nine states, and is expanding. What makes their program solid is a single curriculum taught in all locations, small class sizes, and experienced educators. Regency offers one comprehensive cosmetology program which encompasses hair, skin, and nail care. A student incentive program is in place at all locations which serves to reward students who excel in client satisfaction, service volume, and retail sales. The first 320 hours of instruction are spent in the classroom, and the rest of the education is a combination of hands-on experience on the clinic floor and continued classroom training. Hours of training and length of program vary according to state, from 1500 hours (9-10 months full-time) to 1800 hours (11-12 months full-time).

For those looking at their options for Massage Therapy Training and considering a career in the massage and wellness industry, here are 8 good reasons to enroll in Massage Therapist Training if you're still sitting on the fence.

  1 - Exceptional Opportunity to "Do Good"   The first duty of any health care practitioner whether it be conventional or alternative health care is to "do no harm". Massage therapy training places you in a career with unlimited opportunity to provide a therapy proven over not decades, not centuries but millennia of time tested application, and provide effective and safe treatment for a huge spectrum of ailments.   Most people employed or self employed in the massage industry are by nature caring and nurturing individuals. Few careers will provide the opportunity and scope to care for such a broad range of people and conditions.  

2 - Growing Acceptance   Insurance industries and medical providers are recommending and covering the cost of massage therapy at an increasing rate. This acceptance of massage as a valid and effective treatment by the insurance and medical providers has the flow on effect of growing acceptance by the public.  

3 - Growing Demand   Naturally the flow on effect of this is greater demand for massage therapy services and providers. Massage therapist training will avail you to an ever growing crowd of fans of the very service you provide.  

4 - Growing Opportunity   With growing acceptance and growing demand, is there any wonder that we are seeing an industry in need of more people to undergo massage therapy training and supply the demand.   The Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2006-2007 Edition, published by the U.S. Department of Labour Bureau of Labour Statistics, states that employment opportunities for massage therapists are increasing "faster than average."  

5 - Enormous Choice for Training   Anyone wishing to enrol in massage therapist training will need to find both a system of massage, and a training facility that is suitable for them, and appropriate for their tastes, their goals and their location.  
·        There are up to 200 different systems of massage in practice.
·        There are thousands of massage training facilities across the country.  

6 - Enormous Choice for Work   As a trained massage therapist you will have employment opportunities in many arenas. Many however will choose to become self employed or business owners.   You can have a home clinic, be a mobile therapist, or work at corporate or sports organisations. Don't believe for a moment that any of these options don't have enormous lucrative potential.   For the real entrepreneur you can also aspire to set up a multi discipline clinic, aligning yourself with other complimentary practitioners. This is something you may have a goal to achieve down the track. For the right person the rewards would be immense.  

7 - Amazing Flexibility   This is kind of a summary of everything that a massage therapist career entails. In a world where choices are often in short supply, massage therapy training will place you in an industry of flexibility.   
·        Flexibility of the style(s) of massage you wish to practice
·        The geographical location (city, state, country?) you wish to work at
·        Home, clinic, corporate, sports club or mobile
·        Hours of your liking, part time - full time
·        Employed or self employed
·        A business that can grow with you  

8 - Solid Industry   The last point is simply this; massage isn't "going anywhere". There are many industries that will simply not exist in a few years time. This has become a world of dying industries. One technology replaces another and the former dies a slow death or even vanishes overnight.   Massage has been practiced and enjoyed for thousands of years and it will continue to be practiced and enjoyed for thousands of years to come. You never need to be concerned if people will still want a massage in 10 or 20 years time.  

There is no doubt that like anything, you will need to put in effort, and persistence, but be sure that for the right person, massage therapist training will lead you into an incredibly rewarding and fulfilling career.

There is no avoiding this simple fact about massage therapy: Providing or receiving the healing power of touch is intimate. And intimacy, even in the most professional settings, can expose vulnerabilities and lead to uncomfortable and even awkward situations.

It is the responsibility of the massage therapist to create an environment that is conducive to a healthy, relaxing and satisfying experience for the client. On the other hand, it is the responsibility of the client to communicate with the massage therapist in a manner that allows the therapist to provide the service in a manner that puts the client at ease.

An experienced massage therapist will be able to guide the recipient through the massage process so that there is little confusion about some of the basic areas that cause embarrassment or confusion.

Take It All Off?

The amount of clothing worn during a massage is dependent on the type of massage being administered. It is normal to be completely undressed during a full body Swedish massage but is not absolutely necessary. If a client prefers to wear panties or briefs during the massage that is fine. Frankly, the client should be able to wear whatever makes them most comfortable. Regardless, the therapist will appropriately drape the client so that only the areas of the body being massaged are exposed.

The therapist will usually instruct the client about what to expect before they begin undressing. The therapist will then leave the room and allow the client to undress and get comfortable on the massage table under a sheet or towel. The massage therapist will then uncover only the area of the body being massaged.

Touchy Feely

There are a variety of reasons that an individual may want a massage: stress relief, relaxation, general wellness, enhance circulation, improved flexibility, etc. No matter what the reason for the massage the therapist is always under the obligation to respect the boundaries set by the client and to establish his or her own boundaries.

Therapeutic massage is, by nature, a sensual experience. However, it is not intended to be a sexual experience. If a client, male or female, makes any overtly sexual requests or suggestions then the therapist is obligated to professionally and forcefully identify the inappropriateness of these comments. Conversely, no therapist should take liberties or make assumptions relative to what parts of the body can be touched.

In general, it is never appropriate to touch the genitals during a massage session. The client cannot expect to be touched sexually and the therapist cannot touch a client in a sexual manner. Either case will betray the trust in the relationship between the two parties...to say nothing of the potential for legal and ethical issues.

And let's be clear. While there are documented benefits of breast massage, it is not, and should not be, included in a total body massage. Breasts are off limits unless a very special request is made of a qualified therapist. The National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork includes a specific policy in its Standards of Practice. The Board states that therapists may "only provide therapeutic breast massage as indicated in the plan of care, and only after receiving informed voluntary consent from the client." That being said, breast massage is legally restricted in some states.

An experienced massage therapist, male or female, will know how to deflect sexual advances by a client. If a subtle response does not do the job then a forceful statement or ending the session will be the correct response. Any client who feels that they are being touched inappropriately should feel confident in their right to speak up. If it is incidental contact or just an accident the therapist will apologize and continue with the client's discomfort noted accordingly.

Extracurricular Activity

As stated earlier, touch is intimate. Permission for such intimacy is accorded based on the massage therapist's professionalism and the trust of the client. At the same time, a relationship is established...a professional relationship but a relationship nonetheless. Understanding and honoring the boundaries of that relationship will allow both parties to fill their roles appropriately.

It is generally accepted that there ought not to be any personal relationship between the therapist and a paying client. Allowing the relationship to expand beyond the massage table to a social or even romantic connection is to invite a host of ethical dilemmas. A therapist could be perceived as taking advantage of a client who might be in a vulnerable state due to stress or physical ailment. In the state of Washington it is illegal to date a client within two years of the last session. That is strict stuff and is as likely to protect a therapist from misunderstandings as it is to protect a client.

Borders and Boundaries

Providing the healing power of touch is an honorable and ancient profession. The benefits of massage therapy are numerous and continue to gain acceptance as a mainstream health practice. No one should ever have to feel uncomfortable about getting a massage and they won't if they are in the hands of a well-trained and ethically centered massage professional.

There are more than eighty different massage modalities practiced from all over the world today. For this reason, the public has many options to choose from when it comes to relaxing from a good healthy massage. When it comes to choosing the right method of massage therapy, people always come up finding the Swedish massage therapy to be the most practical and commonly used type of therapeutic massage. This is true not only in the US but also on most parts of the world today.

Swedish massage has been around for a long time and has proven to be effective in relieving stress as well as pain in our body. It is an amazing natural technique which only involves consistent hand strokes and kneading movements using elbow, knee, palm and the fingers to accomplish this kind of therapeutic experience. You will surely love it as your whole body will benefit from it and you can have a good time relaxing and removing all the unwanted stress and burden in your body.

A Swedish massage therapy session will rejuvenate your stressed out body and feel the soothing effect of a reconditioned body. It is beneficial as it gives your body a good oxygen circulation which in return helps in relieving stress. The gentle yet firm strokes done to your body will aid in removing and releasing tensions on your body which are responsible for muscle cramps, spasms, and sprains.

So if you're planning on having a good Swedish massage session, check out some of these basic rules and guidelines on what to do in preparation and during your scheduled session for it to be enjoyable and tension-free for both you and the massage therapist. All you need to do is to follow these simple rules before you get started:

Arrive 30 minutes earlier than your scheduled time as being late is a no-no in every situation, especially on a massage session.

Make sure that you had an appointment with your doctor prior to your massage therapy session and have consulted on the possibility of whether you are not allowed to have one.

Eating light meals is the best way to go when having a schedule for a massage therapy. This is for your comfort during your therapy as eating heavy meal is not advisable as it is not healthy and will only give you a hard time and an uncomfortable experience during your supposedly relaxing experience at the massage spa.

The cost of a massage is also a factor when searching for the right one as the affordability of the service should also be considered. The cost for a Swedish massage therapy session often varies depending on where you are getting it. It also varies from place to place and who does the service for you as some massage therapist asks for higher prices than the others. Although you don't have to cheap out on this, searching for a massage saloon with a reasonable price is the best thing to do if you are into massage therapy.

Find Massage Therapy Colleges in the United States and Canada. Massage therapy colleges provide versatile training programs in a wide array of bodywork modalities and other natural healing therapies.

Depending on available healing arts programs, some massage therapy colleges extend introductory massage classes in basic massage techniques, anatomy, physiology, pathology and kinesiology that may be as brief as a weekend seminar or as an advanced course of study that may encompass over 1,000 training hours.

In a number of massage therapy colleges, prospective students may apply to a professional massage therapist certificate programs whereby candidates are afforded in-depth instruction and hands-on training in a vast assortment of massage methods, including: shiatsu or Watsu (a form of aquatic shiatsu), Zen body therapy, trigger point myotherapy, reflexology, Thai or Chinese medical massage, sports massage, deep tissue massage, Trager therapy, craniosacral therapy, Tai Chi, structural integration, Swedish massage, Rolfing, Lomi-Lomi and many others.

Some massage therapy colleges specialize in specific healing arts modalities such as reflexology, Qigong, prenatal or infant massage, orthopedic massage and the like. Several massage therapy colleges may offer certification in one or more of aforementioned training programs; and in some cases, may even extend degree opportunities in medical massage.

While each state and province differ in certification and/or licensing requirements, one should examine various massage therapy colleges for accreditation, curriculum, and tuition costs. While many massage therapy colleges make efforts to meet standards and requirements set by governing massage therapy boards, it is essential that potential students determine which courses of study will meet those standards - for example, if you are primarily taking a short course to gain an introduction to the art, then you may not be eligible to become nationally certified;* likewise, national certification is applicable to those students who have acquired a minimum of 500 training hours. (Applicable in the US) Some massage therapy colleges provide 300 training hours, which meet some state certification requirements; however, in order to become nationally certified, students must arrange to take additional advanced courses to earn eligibility to take the national certification exam.

Canadian students, who desire professional careers in massage therapy will find, too, that a number of provinces require licensure. In this case, a certain standard of training hours* must be met prior to becoming a licensed, practicing massage therapist. (Hours vary from province to province.) It is important that prospective students review curriculums at potential massage therapy colleges prior to enrollment.

Massage therapy colleges can provide promising educational opportunities to candidates interested in working the natural and complementary health care industry. Today, massage therapists can earn lucrative wages exceeding $30 per hour.* (Earnings depend on education, experience and geographical location.)

If you (or someone you know) are interested in finding massage therapy colleges, let career training within fast-growing industries like massage therapy, cosmetology, acupuncture, oriental medicine, Reiki, and others get you started! Explore career school programs [http://school.holisticjunction.com/clickcount.php?id=6634739&goto=http://www.holisticjunction.com/search.cfm] near you.

Massage Therapy Colleges in North America
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There are many people who want to get a physical therapy degree. However, some of those people don't know where they need to go to get their degree for physical therapy. On the contrary, there are many places that you can go to get your physical therapy degree. You just need to know where to start your search.

Firstly, you can go to a college or a university to get the physical therapy degree that you want. You will need to find the college that you want to attend. Then you will need to go talk to someone at that college to find out what classes you would need to take to get the degree in physical therapy.

You will have to attend classes for a number of years, usually four, in order to get a degree in physical therapy. This profession is a very noble one. You will be helping people recover over a period of time with physical therapy. There are also a number of places that you can work when you have your degree such as hospitals or nursing homes. These are only two of the many places that you can find a job. You just need to look for them because there is a shortage of physical therapists and you will have a number of job openings that you can choose from.

Secondly, you can get your physical therapy degree online. There are many colleges and universities that will now allow you to get your degree through the internet. You may not be able to do everything you need to for this degree online. There will likely be some supplementary classes or tutorials that you will have to take at a local college or university.

You want to check into all of the online schools that you can find before you decide on which one to get your degree at. You want to make sure that they have what you need to complete your degree. You also want to find out how much of your degree can be completed online and how much you have to go to a college for. That way you will be able to decide if it would be better for you to get your degree online or to just go to a college to begin with.

These are two of the best ways for you to get your degree for physical therapy. Just make sure that you research all your options before you decide on one. In that way, you can be assured that you will find the best option for you to get your physical therapy degree.

A hot stone massage is a therapy that has numerous benefits. It is a type of massage that uses a heated massage rock and a Swedish massage to heal and relax the body. Many people avail of this massage because of its many therapeutic effects. It is not only a form of relaxation but also an effective solution to aches and pains of the body. Here are some beneficial effects of this type of massage other than calming the body.

o It puts the mind in a meditative state and therefore is good for people experiencing insomnia and difficulty of sleep because of stress.
o It releases tension on the muscles. It is very good for muscles that are injured, weak and tight.
o It enhances the lymphatic system decreasing the body's susceptibility to infection.
o It has a consoling and soothing effect and has been proven to treat depression.
o It is considered as one form of pain management and recommended for people with back pains and arthritis.

People these days are so prone to stress that there is no doubt physical and mental fatigue will eventually set in. In order to relieve some of the tension from the body, you often find other ways on how to feel relaxed and a hot stone massage therapy is one of the popular choices. It is the perfect way of alleviating pain and promoting overall health of an individual.

You already know the beneficial effects it provides but sometimes you ask yourself on how many times is it really ideal to get a hot stone massage. There really is no actual limitation on how many times you should have a stone massage therapy but the average occurrence to a massage client is approximately once a month. But this number is really dependent on the person and his lifestyle. For instance, one person may engage in a job that requires him to seat on a chair for more than 8 hours. This type of job will usually bear a strain on the muscles and it is recommended to take the massage twice a month.

A two hour treatment of a hot stone massage therapy will take you in a deeper sense of relaxation. The tension and muscle spasms in your body will simply melt away as the massage rock and Swedish massage create the perfect massage atmosphere. The heat and the massage will gradually open up the energy centers of the body and will leave you feeling rejuvenated in no time.

Getting a hot stone massage therapy is good for the body. It may be a little more expensive than a regular massage but the effects can be remarkable. You cannot reverse the aging process of the body but at least you can slow it down with the proper diet, regular exercise and a massage once in awhile. So invest in a hot stone massage to boost your energy levels and live a healthier happier lifestyle.

A good massage therapist is one who can effectively use massage techniques to relieve the stress, tension, and other problems that you have. Deciding when to have a massage is easy the hard part is choosing a therapist who can deliver your needs.

Choosing a good massage therapist is very important because they are trained to deal with proper manipulation and kneading of the human body. This is important because many people don't realize that in the United States many individuals without massage training can open their own massage business just as long as they don't claim that they are licensed or are recipients of training certificates.

With that in mind, how do you choose a good therapist? What questions should you ask? And what qualities should you expect from this person?

First, you can always ask your friends for recommendations however you may still be not satisfied with their choice so here are the things that you should look for in a therapist.

Credentials

You should ask your potential massage therapist for license and/or certification, where he was schooled, what trainings he has undergone, and length of practice. Rules of certification vary from state to state but generally, MT's are required at least 600 hours of classroom instruction.

Holding certificates and participating in advanced training is rather important, it means that he values continuously educating and improving himself. Common MT designations depending on state are: LMT (Licensed Massage Therapist), LMP (Licensed Massage Practitioner), RMT (Registered Massage Therapist) and CMT (Certified Massage Therapist).

Massage Supplies, Tools, Equipment, and Linens

Ask your MT for the types of oils and lotions he uses and look at the ingredients especially if you are the type who has sensitive skin. There is a wide selection of massage products out there, you can decide whether you want scented or unscented and water-based or organic.

Massage tools, equipment, and most importantly linens should be clean and free of oil stains. If you spot oil stains on their sheets it should be a warning sign that this MT does not value hygiene.

Communication

A good massage therapist would be willing to discuss with you what your expectations are and the style of massage that your prefer. Also a good one should be skilled at adjusting his depth of touch to the needs of the client as some clients are not satisfied by light touches while others find deep massage as painful.

Appointment and Rates

Inquire as to how you can make appointments and whether or not he has an office or if he can home service.

Inquire about rates i.e. you want how much do they charge for a particular type of massage using aromatherapy oil. Ask your potential MT for the types of payment he accepts, credit cards, check, or cash. This is important since a lot of people don't carry more than enough cash with them.

Having a massage is a personal experience; therefore take the time to find a good massage therapist to take care of your needs in order for you to have the best massage experience.

Traditionally, massage has been considered a luxury service intended to relieve stress and promote relaxation. However, in recent years, massage has gone from a method of relaxation to one of medical treatment. In fact, massage therapy is offered in many hospitals and clinics as treatment for various illnesses and health complications.

Massage is often promoted for use in the treatment of conditions like the following:

Hypertension

Migraine

Arthritis

Anxiety and depression

Pain relief

Orthopedic conditions

Rehabilitation after injury

Insomnia

Certain types of cancer

When it comes to the treatment and prevention of disease, massage can help stimulate positive physiological reactions in the body that promote healing and healthy growth, as well as strengthen immunity. The relaxation aspect of massage lends to its healing capabilities, as it leads to an increase of feel good chemicals in the brain. These chemicals, including dopamine, endorphins and serotonin, reduce stress, anxiety and blood pressure, as well as improve overall health and wellness.

The manipulation of the skin that is associated with massage can also offer the benefit of improved circulation. This advantage is especially important, as increased blood flow to all areas of the body ensures proper nourishment to cells. By receiving sufficient nutrition, cells are better equipped to protect themselves from danger, as well as repair damage done by toxins and impurities. Improved circulation can also help the body rid itself of impurities, which is necessary in maintaining good health.

There are several different massage techniques available, each of which offers its own unique benefits. The following are the most common types of massage:

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage techniques involve slow kneading and a good amount of pressure. One of the most popular techniques in the world, deep tissue massage is often used to promote relaxation, and is also used in post-injury rehabilitation.

Swedish Massage

Swedish massage techniques are most often used to increase energy and circulation. This type of massage involves deep circular movements, as well as vibration and tapping.

Trigger Point Massage

This type of technique involves the manipulation of sensitive areas, or trigger points. Trigger points can vary from patient to patient, and are areas that suffer from excess tension and stress. Trigger point massage techniques can promote healing after injury, relieve aches and pains and reduce stress and anxiety.

Sports Massage

Common among athletes, sports massage techniques help relax muscles, joints and ligaments in order to prevent and treat injuries. This type of massage also improves circulation and relieves aches and pains.

Although massage therapy is becoming increasingly common, it is not recommended for everyone. In some cases, such as those involving tumors, burns or open wounds, massage can make matters worse. In order to prevent a worsening of symptoms, a doctor should be consulted before beginning a massage regimen.

Hot stone massage is a popular combination of a light massage technique aided by hot stones for relaxing stiff and tension muscles all over the patient' body. Swedish massage is probably the most commonly used massage therapy for this type of therapeutic massage as it is done in a gentle and smooth manner. The most common type of stone used on the patient's body is basalt rock. The reason for this is because of its ability to retain heat for a long time unlike the other stones. These stones are usually sanitized before being used on the patient's body.

The person responsible for making this massage type popular all over the world is an Arizona massage therapist named Mary Nelson. However, this massage technique is used for many centuries ago as an alternative medicine to promote a healthy condition. La-Stone Therapy was a modified version of hot stone massaged developed by Mary Nelson.

The basalt or other types of stones used are usually placed on a preheated water container until they reach the desirable and appropriate temperature suitable for this type of therapeutic massage. An electric heating device is commonly used as it is more convenient to heat things there than any other type of heating device. Stones that are not warm enough or lost their warmth are replaced and immersed back in the water and heated again in the electric heating device.

In a hot stone massage therapy session, the process is similar with any of the conventional massage therapy where the patient is required to undress and comfortably lie down on the massage bed. However, unlike the other massage styles, hot stone massage starts its therapy by warming up the patient's body with the help of hot stones positioned on the various meridian points located all over the body. The warmth of these stones helps a lot in releasing tension and calming the body parts of the patient as a preparation for a good massage therapy. The massage therapist also uses oil or lotion as a lubricant on the patient's body for a smooth and friction-free manipulation of the various massage strokes. The therapist has the liberty of using hot stones placed on both hands as he or she massages the patient. These stones are replaced with new stones in case the heat doesn't meet the appropriate temperature required for this massage therapy method. Most of the time during a massage session, the massage therapist doesn't remove the hot stones on the patient's body key points as he or she works all over the body.

Many people are getting hooked with this type of massage therapy because of its wonderful effect on the patient's body after the massage therapy session. This type of massage therapy is suitable for individuals who prefer to relax with a lighter and gentler massage therapy. People with body pain often find this technique relieving, relaxing and energizing. It is also a good way of removing emotional and physical stress by getting your energy re-balanced for a healthier body condition.