While growing in popularity all across North America, massage therapy remains a physically challenging profession. To ensure a long and rewarding career, massage therapists need to take special care to avoid muscle strain and repetitive motion injuries.
Here are some tips anyone studying or practicing massage therapy should consider to stay in top physical form:
* Set up a safe working environment. Make sure your table is set in a way that allows you to move freely about the room and reach all the areas you need to reach without excessive bending, stretching, etc. As many therapists work in darkened rooms to promote relaxation, make sure that tables, shelves and other pieces of furniture are situated so as not to present sharp corners or other obstructions.
* Invest in an adjustable table. If possible, acquire a power-adjusted table so you can raise and lower your clients to put them in comfortable positions. Clients come in all shapes and sizes, so one size (and height) will not fit all!
* Stay in shape. Develop and practice an exercise regimen that fits into your work schedule and lifestyle. Place special emphasis on stretching and weight-bearing exercises that increase muscle tone and endurance.
* Practice good body mechanics. Use movements that feel natural and don’t put undue strain on the most sensitive parts of your body, such as your hands, wrists, neck and especially your lower back. Listen to what your body is telling you: If it hurts, stop doing it!
* Stay healthy. Get seven to eight hours of sleep per night. Eat regular, nutritious meals. Moderate alcohol consumption. And if you smoke, quit. Not only does smoking pose serious long-term health hazards, but in the short term it can reduce lung capacity—and no one wants a massage therapist who smells like an ashtray and has cigarette breath!
* Take frequent breaks. Massage therapy can be a demanding profession, mentally as well as physically. Be sure to leave plenty of time between sessions to recharge your body and your spirit.
* Find a good massage therapist! Therapists of all types usually need therapists of their own. After a long week of helping clients remove the stress and knots from their bodies, what could be better than a good massage?
Professional Massage Therapy Training Courses Offered at Everest College
Everest College is one of America’s leading providers of professional massage therapy training.
Because Everest has dozens of urban campuses conveniently located throughout the United States, men and women interested in pursuing this exciting and rewarding career can likely find a campus conveniently close to their home or work. Everest’s courses are designed to prepare students for the licensing exam most states require in less than a year. Everest’s Career Placement teams work to prepare each graduate for their job search and interface directly with major health care employers to help fill new job openings. Most Everest campuses also provide financial aid services for those who qualify.
People interested in training in massage therapy should contact Everest today for information on class schedules.
