Massage Therapy Practitioners

April 23, 2015

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Demands of a Massage Therapy Career

A close up of a man massaging a womans neck

Massage therapy is a physically demanding career. Because they use the same muscles and recurring movements, massage therapists face repetitive motion injuries that few people experience.

Many massage therapy practitioners develop pain and discomfort by falling into bad habits. In order to prevent these types of injuries, it is essential that massage therapy professionals use the proper techniques taught in massage therapy programs

Massage can be physically demanding, primarily because the therapist is standing for long periods of time and using repetitive motions. In addition to proper technique and environment, it’s important to schedule breaks for yourself to give your muscles time to recover between massages.

Common injuries and ailments massage therapists encounter include:

Muscle fatigue, particularly in the arms, legs and lower back
It is important to take sufficient time between massages to maintain physical and mental energy.
Repetitive motion injury, including carpal tunnel syndrome
Understanding ergonomics and using proper body mechanics can help massage therapists avoid this type of injury.
Back, neck and shoulder strain

It is absolutely essential that the massage table be the proper height. Make sure the table is adjustable.

Inflammation in the joints
Due to the demands, massage therapists may experience inflammation, especially in the knees, hips, shoulders and elbows.
Leg fatigue from standing for long periods

Because massage practitioners stand for long periods, proper footwear is essential to avoid fatigue in the calves, as well as shin splints.

When you commit to a massage therapy career, you should also commit to keeping yourself as healthy as possible.

Get plenty of rest
Eat right
Drink plenty of water
Exercise regularly – including cardiovascular and muscle endurance
Hire a massage therapist!

Are you considering a massage therapy career?

Massage therapy jobs can include working in spas, salons, sports clubs, and physical therapy practices, just to name a few. Becoming a masseuse/masseur can be rewarding and exciting. Getting the right education from an accrediting massage therapy program is essential to prepare you for a career in the healing arts.

First Institute offers massage therapist training at our campus that focuses on providing the technical education and practical, hands-on experience that can help you succeed. If you are interested in a rewarding career and would like to know more about our Massage TherapyProgram in Illinois, call 815-459-3500.