Massage Therapist

Massage therapists assess and treat the soft tissue of the body for therapeutic purposes.

Massage therapists may perform the following tasks:

take a case history and assess the client's physical condition
massage the soft tissues of the human body, such as muscles, tendons and ligaments, to assist healing
assess and treat specific injuries and other soft tissue dysfunction, and provide rehabilitation advice
administer treatments to promote relaxation, improve blood circulation and relieve muscle tension
use a range of techniques to enhance sports performance and prevent injury
provide advice on stretching exercises and relaxation techniques.

Massage Therapists may specialise in one or more of the following techniques:

Remedial Massage - assists in rehabilitation, pain and injury management.
Therapeutic or Relaxation Massage - promotes wellbeing, improves sleep and treats anxiety and tension.
Sports Massage - treats and prevents injuries, improves recovery and increases flexibility and endurance.
Structural Bodywork - addresses injuries and dysfunction caused by postural and biomechanical strain.
Oncology, Palliative Care and Geriatric Massage - supports the primary care of patients with chronic illnesses, such as cancer.
Pregnancy and Paediatric Massage - supports the primary care of pregnant women and infants.

Massage therapists spend a lot of time standing. Although the work is physically demanding, it requires stamina rather than strength.

Massage therapists employ a range of techniques and complementary aids, such as heat and cold packs, tape and essential oils.

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