The hustle and bustle of today’s world can really cause a person a lot of undue stress. It is no surprise that massage therapy has become quite popular. More and more individuals are turning to professional masseuses to help relieve the tensions of everyday life. Those who have pain in their joints or stiff muscles can walk away from their massage session feeling relaxed and free from stress.
Individuals who continue to receive massages regularly can reap the emotional and physical benefits of improved circulation and increased range of motion. A good massage relieves tension and leaves the recipient feeling rejuvenated. Painful injuries can be relieved, exhausted muscles can recover, and blood circulation is greatly improved.
Becoming a Massage Therapist
There are many different professions in the healing arts; massage therapy is just one of them. A career in the field of massage therapy requires an individual to participate in an accredited program. Once the programs requirements have been met, the student can get licensed and become a certified massage therapist. In order to keep the license valid, therapists must take the necessary massage Therapy continuing education courses to stay certified and licensed. Those looking to pursue a long lasting career in massage therapy should understand that continuing education courses are an important part of the process.
Each state has its set of rules and regulations regarding massage therapy practices. By partaking in continuing education courses, licensed individuals will be able to stay up to date with the latest techniques and guidelines. Some of these regulations may wind up affecting their everyday practice, so it is important to stay informed.
Massage therapists can receive a national license, but still must log a certain number of hours of continuing education courses each year within the state they will be practicing in. Any local, regional or state regulations must be followed in order for the massage therapist to practice legally. Massage continuing education courses cover a variety of topics including:
The Requirements for Licensing: Any local or state guidelines will be discussed.
Shoulder Rehab: Massage therapists are taught effective techniques for dealing with shoulder pain and injuries.
Ethics: Includes how to handle any instances of abuse, clinical issues and dealing with the billing of insurance companies.
Ergonomics: Learning the right techniques and which equipment is most effective for the job.
The Basics of Upper Anatomy: Therapists will learn how to work with all of the major muscle groups and will also become familiar with the structure of the body and how it moves.
Boundaries: Massage therapists are taught how to set proper boundaries between themselves and their client.
Finding CEU Course to Take
Numerous accredited online learning institutions offer continuing education courses for massage therapists. If you have trouble finding courses, you may consult local magazines or newspapers for advertisements. A local college may also be able to help.
Online CEU courses will allow practicing massage therapists to maintain their license with the state board without ever having to leave their home. Those with busy schedules or large families may find this option to be much more convenient and economical. They will be able to learn at their own pace and on their own time. An increasing number of states are allowing massage therapists to renew their licenses online.