Many (about 90,000) people in the United States claim massage therapy as their part-time or full-time job. Most are self-employed. A large percentage of these workers are of part-time and self-employed workers. Most states in the United States require some sort of a license to practice massage therapy. If a state does not have any massage laws, then nothing is required and a practitioner need not apply for any sort of license with the state. To train in the US where a license is required it involves 500-1000 hours in length, resulting in a certificate, diploma, or degree depending on the particular school. In the United States there are about 90,000 massage therapists.
With any massage, special equipment is used. As these therapists are self-employed, he/she will have her own equipment consisting of a table with a horseshoe shaped head support for ease of breathing while lying face-down. It has a padded surface which is easy to keep clean and remain hygienic. Mats and pillows are also used for additional support. With the increased interest in massage therapy, this job field is growing.
Ergonomic chairs serve a similar function as a massage table. Chairs may be either stationary or portable models. Massage chairs are easier for the practitioner to transport than massage tables, and clients do not need to disrobe to receive a chair massage. Due to these two factors, chair massage is often performed in settings such as corporate offices, outdoor festivals, shopping malls, and other public locations.
Aches, pains, bursitis, fatigue, high blood pressure? The list goes on, diabetes, immunity suppression, infertility, smoking cessation, depression, found what ails you yet? Try low back pain, maybe arthritis? All of these, as well as an immense number of other ailments can be treated with massage therapy. This is an accepted part of many physical rehabilitation programs. Millions throughout the world will attest, massage also helps relieve the stress and tension of everyday living that can lead to disease and illness.
The art of massage involves rubbing the superficial layers of muscle and connective tissue. When done properly, is has been known to enhance function and promote relaxation and well-being. Think this is something new? No, in fact it dates way back in many cultures. It has been documented by the ancient Hindus, Persians and Egyptians. They all used massage therapists for a wide variety of illnesses, aches and pains. Hippocrates even wrote papers recommending the use of rubbing and friction for joint and circulatory problems. If you are interested in finding how this art of massage is practiced, get started with your research! There are so many different methods, over 250 to be precise, are used.
In the early 1800's, massage therapy became very popular and this increased until the 1930's and 40's. As modern medicine developed, the benefits of massage therapy were discounted. It was used less and less. In the 1960's and 1970's nurses began to use it to alleviate pain in patients. Again, its popularity grew until finally in the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta massage was deemed a core medical service, which gave it great credibility. It's good enough for the Olympics, how about you? Find your favorite massage therapist.
