The Many Uses Of Massage Therapy

In a world where work stress, the juggling of schedules, and financial worries plague society on a daily basis, we look to any and every option to give us respite from the chaos. Stress relief comes in many different forms; and what works for one, may not work for another. But, one form of stress relief that typically relieves symptoms for most every one is massage therapy.

Massage therapy uses touch to soothe - and often heal - the body. Using a combination of strokes that are dependent on the type of massage being performed, different areas of the body are tended to in an effort to release energy trapped through stress or illness. Massage results in increased blood flow, the reduction of stress, anxiety, and depression, and even increased function of body systems - lowering blood pressure, heart rate - and giving the client an overall sense of wellbeing.

The roots of massage therapy lie in ancient Chinese medicine; as a matter of fact, the first reference to therapeutic massage can be seen throughout Chinese medical reference books as far back as 2,700 B.C. The origins of massage were about healing; ancient civilizations used the art of massage to boost immunity and speed healing from disease, illness, and injury.

When people think of massage therapy in the modern world, they often think of the spas that offer a full line of different types of massage. And it is true that these types of massage can bring enormous positive effects to the body as a whole. But, in addition, modern medical facilities - like the ancient civilizations before us - continue to use massage in tandem with traditional medicine. They have found that frequent use of massage in intensive care units, nurseries, and even in labor and delivery rooms during childbirth, will allow the body to battle pain, sickness, and injury with positive energy.

That is not to say that the massage found in spas and delivered by independent massage therapists isn't just as beneficial. Today, we have the opportunity to choose from among a wide variety of massage techniques - each having its own distinctive benefits. Most often, in the spa environment - or working with massage therapists - clients will choose Swedish massage.

This type of massage uses a long, slow stroking technique to ease muscle tension; it is considered to be one of the most popular forms of massage. For athletes, or those who enjoy a stronger massager, deep tissue massage will reach the deepest muscles, releasing stress and helping to promote healing from injury or strain. Hot stone massage uses heated river rocks to therapeutically sooth muscles. And for women who are expecting, the maternity massage can safely sooth muscles put under stress through pregnancy.

Massage therapy has many different uses in the modern world - stress relief, relaxation, a day of pampering, and a bevy of healing properties including improved circulation, decreased inflammation, and the promotion of speedier healing. A lifestyle that incorporates massage into every day living will be rewarded with improved physical - and emotional - health.

Physical Therapy Treatments - Specialized Geriatric Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy for the elderly is a busy field. Diseases and medical conditions hat require physical therapy abound in older people, and though such cases are not easy to handle, the results when good, are reward enough.

This field is known as geriatric physiotherapy. It was termed a specialized field in 1989. Therapists have studied the problems affecting the elderly since then. A number of problems affecting the older population have been identified and are treated by geriatric physiotherapy.

The disorders covered by physiotherapy for older people include, but are not limited to, arthritic disorders, pulmonary disease, joint replacements, cardiac diseases, cancer, balance disorders, incontinence, Alzheimer's, pulmonary disorders, strokes and osteoporosis. Each disorder is treated by it's own unique treatment.

Geriatric physiotherapy faces three different type of programs, grouped accordingly in to different categories. The first category included disorders that occur because of limb disuse ot lack of exercise. These problems are resolved using exercises that restore a person's normal range of motion.

The second category of geriatric physiotherapy addresses issues arising due to cardiovascular diseases. A range of techniques such as water therapy, electrical stimulation, physical exercise and several other methods can be employed.

The last category of physiotherapy methods treat problems related to the skeletal structure. Diseases which affect the bones, such as osteoarthritis and osteoporosis, require specialized treatments as patients have little resistance to injury and physical exercise is difficult and painful.

Osteoporosis treatments are particularly important because of the fragile nature of the bones. In addition to that, physiotherapy restores a person's balance and trains them to support themselves better, which prevents frequent falls and injuries. Some therapy centers only pay attention to gait and balance issues for the older population.

Geriatric physiotherapy, unlike other fields of physiotherapy, does not aim at making patients perform better than they used to before. For elderly patients, the main focus is on allowing them to perform basic functions and daily activities without having to rely on others' assistance. It allows them to live an independent life.

Physiotherapists also try to return the joys of hobby activities to their patients. A point in example is golf, which is sport enjoyed by several seniors. Though it has health benefits, it can be a dangerous for someone not in the best of health.

As a results, physiotherapy is often aimed at training seniors to get into the right physical shape to play their favorite sports. Allowing them the independence and physical fitness to play a sport at an advanced age gives them a physical and psychological boost. It also keeps depression at bay, which in recent years has claimed a growing number of seniors.

Rehabilitation also figures in a prominent role in geriatric physiotherapy, especially after joint replacement surgeries. These surgeries alter the gait of the patient and also influence the way the carry out everyday tasks. Physiotherapists can help them reclaim their previous quality of life.

Often the elderly will take the assistance of physiotherapy to better perform their normal functions. Doctors may also refer patients under their care to physiotherapists for problems they can assist in the treatment of. Accidents and age-related disorders are, of course, the primary reason for patients to sign up at a physiotherapy clinic. Geriatric physiotherapy has a solution for all these problems.

Ayurveda - Where It All Began!

Ayurveda is the science of life, the origin of most forms of natural and alternative medicine. 'Ayu' meaning life is the combination of body, senses, mind and soul and Ayurveda is the most sacred science of life. Ayurveda originates from the Vedas, Atharva Veda in particular and is connected to the Hindu religion.

The earliest source of Ayurveda are the verses of Rig Veda which refer to Panchamahabhut(the 5 basic elements of entire creation) and the 3 doshas as the comprising elements of Ayurveda. During 4000 to 3000 B.C., Samaveda and Yajurveda, the second and third Vedas came into existence. Chants and performance of rituals were the highlight of these two Vedas. The Atharva Veda has numerous hymns lauding herbs. During this period, plants were worshipped as deities

Other early works of Ayurveda include the Charaka Samhita, Susrut Samhita and Ashtang Hridaya.

Charaka Samhita is attributed to Charaka. It is considered to be the most ancient and authoritative writing on Ayurveda available today. It explains the logic and philosophy on which this system of medicine is based. According to Charaka Samhita, Ayurveda has been constantly evaluated, verified and fine-tuned by an active community of physicians. Though the knowledge in Charaka Samhita is mostly theoretical, it focuses on the healing of body, mind and soul. The study of Charaka focused on health and longevity. Charaka carried out a detailed study of the diagnosis of a disease's origin.

Susrata Samhita is considered to be the most authentic text on the practice of Ayurvedic surgery and Susruta has also been regarded as the father of plastic surgery. The Susruta Samhita included minute details on how to perform prosthetic surgery to replace limbs, cosmetic surgeries, cesarean operation, setting of compound fractures and even brain surgery. This text has been inspired from the events of epics like Ramayana which mentions that remarkable feets of surgery have taken place in the past, references have been made to transplantation of head and eyeball in the epic.

Ashtange Hridaya is also considered as one of the origins of Ayurveda. Around 500 A.D., Vagabhatt compiled his 'Samhita' known as Ashtanga Hridaya. It contained knowledge based on two schools of surgery, namely, the school of surgery and school of physicians. This text emphasizes on the physiological aspect of the body rather than spiritual aspects of it.

Over the coming ages, the science of Ayurveda developed during the reigns of prominent kings and empires. Throughout the era of the prominent ruler Chandragupta Maurya, Ayurveda was a part of the conventional Indian healing techniques. It continued to be a part of the medicine till the colonization of British. Chakrapani Dutta, a Vaid Brahman from Bengal also produced books on Ayurveda such as "Chakradutta" among many more.

Ayurveda has been regarded as the science as well as art of life, regardless of the rising adoption of European medical techniques during the British era. There was a period, when the study and practice of Ayurveda had declined considerably with the rise of Western medicine and hospitals. However, in the 1970s, Ayurveda gained the limelight slowly and made a comeback. Presently, Ayurveda is a very popular medicine with Ayurvedic doctors and practitioners thriving all across the country. The production and promotion of Ayurvedic medicine has also risen and today, Ayurvedic medicines are available throughout the globe.

Massage Technique - Petrissage

Description

This stroke referred to as petrissage (derived from 'petrir' meaning 'to knead'). Petrissage can be subdivided into picking­ up, wringing, squeezing and rolling. If you are good at kneading dough then you will quickly become an expert!

It is an extremely powerful and vigorous movement, which enables you to work deeply on the muscles. You may apply it to every area of the body, except for the face, and it is effective on the fleshy areas such as the hips and thighs. In picking-up, place your hands flat on the part being treated and grasp the muscle (not the skin) firmly with one or both hands, then pull it as far away as possible from the bone.

Once you have picked up the muscle you may squeeze it gently. Squeezing is particularly effective in alleviating muscle spasm. You may now roll the muscle in both directions - your thumbs may roll the muscle towards your fingers or your fingers may roll the muscle towards your thumbs. Wringing is a variation on picking-up. It is picking-up with a twist! The muscle is picked up and then pulled towards you and 'wrung' out. Imagine that you are wringing out a towel or a chamois leather.

Benefits

• By alternately squeezing and relaxing, the veins and lymphatic vessels are emptied and filled, bringing fresh nutrients to the muscles.


• Any toxins that have accumulated are removed from the deeper tissues.


• Petrissage is invaluable in helping to break down and remove fatty deposits around the thighs, shoulders and buttocks.


• It also helps to prevent muscle stiffness after exercise and can relieve muscle spasm.

Errors to avoid

• Make sure that you use the whole of your hand rather than just your fingers and your thumbs;


• Pick up the muscle and not the skin otherwise there is the danger of pinching the flesh. Do not slide your fingers over the receiver's skin.

Top Reasons Why Massage Therapy Is Becoming A Popular Career Choice

Most Americans are now seeing the value of having a good massage in order to alleviate body pains and stress. This is largely due to doctors' recommendations of using various modalities of massage in order to treat certain illnesses and pains. What other reasons are behind this new-found sense of wellness?

Reasons Why The Massage Therapy Career Is Booming

Although initially pain relief was the only reason why Americans sought the assistance of therapists, they are now finding more reasons to keep their wellness appointments with medical practitioners.

Aids in Preserving Healthy Bodies

A healthy body also equates to almost painless living conditions. Many have been going to massage therapists mainly to seek relief from their injuries as well as for pain management purposes. According to studies, with continued massage sessions, people suffering from chronic back pains, fatigue caused by other illnesses, post-operative soreness, and bone problems benefitted much from regular massages. Aside from pain relief, most of the patients felt stronger, breathed easier, had become more positive in their disposition, and had a healthier and improved sense of self after several massage sessions.

Therapy Is Recommended by Doctors

Starting mid-2006, more and more doctors have been advocating massage therapy as cure alongside other medical treatments doctors are performing on patients. Based on analyses conducted by the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA), more than 60% of massage therapists get referrals from doctors such as orthopedists and cardiologists.

Health and Wellness Centers Now Have Massage Therapy Programs

Because more doctors are now espousing the use of massages as part of a patient's treatment, health centers, including clinics and hospitals, established education programs to respond to the growing demand in massage therapy. Primarily, these programs are designed for the treatment of the following conditions: high blood pressure, depression and anxiety, infant massage, pregnancy-related massage, rehabilitation, and general wellness massages.

Profession Is Now Covered by Insurance Companies

From the beginning, insurance companies have been covering treatment for illnesses and diseases only. However, due to the increasing number of doctors who consider massages to treat patients, as well as requests from patients themselves to include massage therapy in their health benefit cards, insurance companies have started responding positively to the demand. Thus, massage therapy is now made available to more patients needing special massage treatments.

Career Has Positive Growth Potential

Again, in response to the population's growing awareness about the health benefits of massage therapy in treating various diseases and pains, including hospitals' and health centers' need for more massage therapists, the industry is projected to grow by about 20% until 2018. Thus, more employment opportunities are open for those who want to be in the health professionals industry.

Physical Therapy Is Not Just for Injuries Anymore

When you hear about physical therapy most people tend to think it is only for the disabled or other people with different types of illness. This preconceived notion originates back to nearly an entire century when physical therapy was first introduced in the United States and used as an effective treatment for polio. It was not until the mid 20th century when physical therapy began to gravitate toward hospitals and outpatient facilities as well as nursing units and a variety of other medical facilities.

Physical therapy is not just for the disabled, injured, or the ill anymore thanks to recent advancements. The intelligence of physical therapy is quite developed and extends beyond hospitals and rehabilitation centers. Still people who lack knowledge of the physical therapy profession also are unaware of the many ways that physical therapy can help them achieve overall health and wellness and maintain it to improve longevity and a high quality of life.

So if you do not know why physical therapy is not just for injuries anymore you want to first ask yourself some questions. How do you currently feel? Are you physically able to do all of the things you want to do? Can you climb the stairs without getting out of breath? Do you have enough energy? Do you have any aches and pains or bothersome injuries? How is your mobility? Your diet?

When you ask these questions to yourself and more you will be surprised to find that physical therapy can help you with all of these aspects of your life and then some. Here is why physical therapy is not just for injuries anymore.

Physical Therapists Conduct Detailed Testing

When you pay a visit to a physical therapist they will conduct a detailed test for strength, flexibility, posture, heart rate, blood pressure, body mass index, and much more. Additionally, a physical therapist will provide a test that indicates percentiles to gauge your health level with others your age. The tests also evaluate the status of your entire body so an individualized treatment plan can be formulated.

Health and Wellness

In addition to helping with physical injuries and illnesses, physical therapists are interested in the overall health and wellness of individuals. If you are having difficulty losing weight or sticking with your diet, a physical therapist can design a personalized plan which will help you control your weight and continue to keep the weight off once you lose it. A physical therapist will guide you through your plan and help you to restore your health and prevent injuries.

Preventing Future Pain

Physical therapy can help you to become educated on the weaknesses in your body. A physical therapist can evaluate your body and tell you what improvements can be made to prevent future pain and injury or other health issues down the road. For example, if you sit all day at work a physical therapist can help you with exercises to prevent back pain or other ailments in the future. If you are in an accident, a physical therapist can help you release soft tissue restrictions early on to prevent chronic pain in the future.

Alleviate Frustrations with Health Goals

A lot of people get lazy or they feel too tired to work on their health and fitness goals. Others feel that life just happens to them and they let things slide. They want to achieve good health and fitness but life seems to be creating a roadblock to these goals. Also if you have some aches and pains, some people are under the impression that exercise will make it worse. Whatever is preventing you from achieving good health and fitness, you do not have to have an injury or illness to consult with a physical therapist regarding your frustrations.

The physical therapy field has expanded significantly and it is not just about injury and disability anymore. So start thinking about paying a visit to your local physical therapist to achieve good health and wellness. Physical therapy also helps you to reduce the costs of your medical bills by helping to prevent future injury and illness. If you make an effort to maintain good health your visits to medical professionals will be reduced and you will enjoy a higher quality of life.

6 Reasons a Massage Therapist Career Could Be for You

Imagine making money from doing something you love. Imagine never having to work in a low paid boring job again. With a change in career, that could just be what the doctor ordered.

If you love massage and love helping people, possible a career in massage is something you should consider. Starting a massage therapist career is something that you should look into for a number of different reasons. The reasons for starting this career can range from simply wanting to do something new to wanting to do something that will help people. Of course you will need to be aware that training is essential in order for people to trust you.

1. A change of scenery

One of the many driving reasons for people to start a new career is a change in their life. There are a lot of people who are not happy with their current job. Going into massage therapy is something that you should consider if you are one of these people. Of course before you can start your new career you will need to go for massage courses to learn what to do.

2. The human aspect

Do you ever feel that your job is just about the bottom line? The corporate world is really all about making money with little regard for the human aspect. Massage therapy is all about the human aspect as you are help alleviate pain and relax people.

3. Setting your own schedule

When you work as a massage therapist it is possible to set your own working hours. If you want to work overtime you can and if you don't then no-one can tell you that you have to. The number of clients you see each day is entirely up to you. Additionally, if you want to have a longer lunch hour all you have to do is say that you are not seeing clients at that time.

4. How much you can make

Another reason for why people will go into massage therapy is that they find the money is quite good. If you are well trained then you can make more than you would in a normal job. The amount of money you make will depend wholly on how many hours you are willing to work. Of course you can also decide what you charge people but you should look at keeping your rate competitive.

5. Own your life

One reason that many people start a massage therapist career is to have more control over their life. It is possible to start your own business when you enter this career. Of course you will need to keep in mind that you will have to work hard to get your business off the ground. Once you do you will be able to dictate all aspects of your life from when you work and how much you can make.

6. You are helping people

When you go into massage therapy you will need to do a course to train. Physical therapy training will include massage therapy in their curriculum. By doing physical therapy courses you will be allowed to help alleviate pain from people who are suffering. Many people find that they like the fact that they can help people who are in pain.

There are many reasons for why people decide to start a massage therapist career. These reasons will range from wanting to deal more with people to helping people cope with pain to simply wanting more control over your own life. No matter what the reason is you will need to do a course in massage therapy before you can take on clients.

Massage Business Market Research

There are various types of massage, but the only way that matters is the way and style used. These may range from traditional massage, sports massage, deep tissue massage, reflexology, hot stone massage and many more. The main goal in this business is to tailor the client's experience based on initial interviews information and the feedback during the massage.

This basically is to ensure the client's comfort and satisfaction hence increasing the repeat in the business with that particular customer. However this business requires a lot planning pertaining the location, where the business is to be located. This is to make it more accessible as much as possible to certainly who are working on full time basis. The offices is to be situated on a convenient for clients with medically-ordered message therapy.

This is turning the massage business to one of the most lucrative source of income citing it advantage of taking very short periods per session. In essence the demand market for massage therapy is huge but mostly some of the fundamental aspects has to be put into account before one intends to engage in this business. One needs to have a clear view and a complete profile detailing how is the massage industry and the market if it can meet the local interests and services.

Most certainly before setting up this business one needs to come up with business plan which will outline the local regulations, insurance covers, benefits, developing procedural records keeping, setting up of clear policies in order once the business kicks off the will be efficiency. Basically these fundamentals are all related to other business start-up as you need capital, premises from which to operate from and mostly qualified trainers and staff who will be the back bone of the massage business.

Massage Marketing Success - Its All About Relationships

I've been a bodyworker for almost 8 years. I started massage school in the fall of 2002 and graduated in June of 2003. School was what you would expect for a massage program; Anatomy & Physiology, Myology, Pathology, Technique, Ethics, and Business were just part of my 9-month program. I learned a lot, and I grew as a person. But how well did it prepare me to grow a successful massage therapy business?

I left school with a business plan in hand and an office space all set up to see clients. I just needed to get my license (a short one week process at that time) and some clients. So, I turned to my business plan and put my marketing plan into action.

I printed my business cards, gift certificates, flyers and posters. I carried my flyers with me everywhere I went and never missed the opportunity to place one on a bulletin board or post one in a window. I was offering new client specials at a ridiculously low price for this area. I networked to friends and family sending emails and letters with business cards offering this introductory rate to them and their friends.

Sometime around July that same year, I began my online efforts. I purchased a great domain name and built myself a very nice website considering I had never done any web work prior to this. The website made it to the top of the search engine pages. Perfect. All I had to do was wait for people to contact me, right? After all I was at the top of the page!

I continued to work a part time job at this point to help supplement my income. If I saw 4 clients in a week I was excited. All my marketing efforts, all my time and money... for 4 clients per week. Don't get me wrong, I was very thankful for those 4 clients. But after a year of this, I was getting worn down. My business plan did not say it was going to be this tough. So, I made the decision to leave private practice and was offered a job managing a local spa. (I had 11 years or previous management experience.)

I spent two years at the spa. I had a great arrangement where I could still see clients but I didn't have to do my own marketing. Plus, it meant I could leave my part time job. However, it still wasn't the vision I had of working for myself.

I worked at the spa for 2 years. During which time I was discovering my passion: CranioSacral Therapy. I was training through the Upledger Institute; I became a teaching assistant and was on the path to certification. But the more in depth I got with my training the more I realized I had to go back into private practice to fully come into my own.

In October 2006, I went back into private practice. This time I had some clients that followed me from the spa. But I knew I would have to start marketing again in order to grow my practice. So, I went online to research massage marketing tips and strategies. And that's when I came across an upcoming webinar for massage therapists on how to create a referral based business. It was a free webinar, so I thought, 'Why not?' I had no idea that it would be the marketing technique I would use the most with the most success.

Before I get to that, I want to say one thing that I have learned. And that is, that typical marketing methods do not work for massage because massage is not a typical service. Massage marketing has to be different. There is a therapeutic relationship involved and we need to take that into consideration. This ties in directly with what I believe to be the marketing strategy that makes most sense for massage therapists and other bodyworkers...

Relationship Marketing.

What's the number one way most therapists say they get clients? Word of mouth referrals. If you can build a solid relationship with your clients, they will become referral machines. Seriously. If you have a strong relationship with your clients and someone asks one of them who they recommend for massage or bodywork, who do you think they will say? You, of course!

It sounds simple and it truly is simple.

The relationship in the office is practically a no-brainer. You should have a great intake with the client, listen to his/her needs, and provide a session that meets his/her goals. Your customer service should be top notch without being over the top or fake. You should be a great listener. But what happens after they leave? How do you continue to build the relationship? Are you ready for this?

Greeting cards. I kid you not.

Clients get greeting cards from me all the time. They are never forced. I never send one if I don't mean what I am saying inside the card. But I do use them. The power of a heartfelt, unexpected greeting card is amazing. Clients talk about this level of detail. They post the cards on their refrigerators. They tell others about them. This is powerful stuff. What kinds of cards do I send?

After the first session, the client will receive a thank you card. Then, throughout the year, they will receive a birthday card, a client appreciation card, thanks for the referral card, and maybe one or two other seasonal cards or sometimes a funny holiday card, like National Watermelon Day (which is August 3 if you need to mark your calendars). There are so many reasons to send cards, but here is the catch.

I mentioned it briefly before. They have to be genuine, heartfelt cards. NOT marketing cards. These cards are not to talk about your monthly special or offer discounts or do any kind of promotion. If that is the point of the card, they will be treated like all the other junk mail and the value is lost. They must truly come from a place of appreciation. That is what builds the relationship. And when you have that relationship, your clients will talk about you to all their friends. They will become the best form of marketing anyone could ask for: walking, talking testimonials.

So where is my business now? I have been back in private practice for almost 3.5 years. I am Upledger Certified in CranioSacral Therapy. I have clients who have been with me for over 5 years. I am booking 3 to 4 weeks ahead depending on the time of year. I send out 30+ cards per month and I look forward to that number getting larger each month.

Pretty powerful for a simple little card, huh?

Children Benefit From Massage

Children require tactile stimulation through a variety of sources in order to fully develop their body, mind and spirit. Those children who receive massage therapy may experience many benefits including improved muscle tone, enhanced pulmonary and immune function, decreased anxiety,enhanced body image, increased bonding and attachment, healthy sense of boundaries, stress reduction and an overall sense of well being.

For massage therapists and bodywork practitioners wishing to incorporate touch therapy within their practice with child clients specialized training is required to achieve full benefit. Yes, you receive appropriate massage education during your time in school, however is their ever a focus on appropriate massage therapy for pediatric clients. Whether healthy and well, or otherwise, it is imperative that you take the time to fine tune and develop child friendly skills as a professional bodyworker.

"Kids are different than adults."

Children have different physical, emotional and developmental needs than adults, and so they should be approached with early childhood development considerations in mind.

It is important to use massage and touch therapy along with methods of Interacting with children using age appropriate activities that stimulate a child's development. With young children's language level in mind, storytelling and songs should be used to connect with and engage children.

"Prior to the age of twelve, children learn about their world kinesthetically - meaning they learn through touching, feeling and experiencing the material at hand."

Using skills and education it is helpful to find ways of increasing tactile stimulation and exploration experiences for children. In addition to physical experiential activities, calming and relaxing touch should be introduced through hands on massage therapy and massage stories.

Touch therapy for children uses adaptations of massage therapy as appropriate for children. Massage is adapted for each individual child client on a specific case by case basis. With each child, it is important to build trust and rapport in your professional relationship. Learn to ask permission effectively and understand both verbal and non verbal cues.

Each child needs to know they can trust you, and that you will listen to their requests. Learn how to explain massage to children in age appropriate language. By learning to appropriately ask permission prior to massage, you'll encourage children to develop healthy boundaries and become more secure as they grow older. It is very empowering for a child to have the ability to direct their therapeutic session, and at times even refuse it. Once they trust you, they can relax and just feel the many benefits of the massage.

Physical Therapy Ultrasound Helps Reduce Joint and Muscle Pain

Physical therapy ultrasound has been around since the 1940's, when therapists learned that ultrasound waves could destroy brain tissue and used it to treat patients with Parkinson disease. Patients could also receive treatment for ulcers and arthritis using ultrasound waves. Ultrasound is a form of heat therapy, and heat has been proven to loosen muscles and tissues and help people relax. With physical therapy ultrasound patients can receive noninvasive treatment for back, neck, knee, and leg pain.

What Is Ultrasound in Physical Therapy?

Ultrasound makes high frequency sound waves that when placed on an area of the body cause vibrations. These vibrations, rather than the actual ultrasound machine, is what causes the production of heat. The vibrations happen deep within the tissues. Blood is drawn into the tissues from the vibrations and bring more nutrients and enzymes that help heal damaged areas.

Ultrasound can help patients who need relief from pain, inflammation, and frequent muscle spasms. The vibrations of the molecules within the tissue also increases the flexibility of joints and can help speed the healing of scar tissue. The therapist will choose whether to use ultrasound continuously or in pulses depending on the location and intensity of the pain. A therapist may also choose to apply ultrasound for a short period to help loosen muscles before exercise therapy.

How Does Physical Therapy Ultrasound Work?

A sound head is used to administer the ultrasound waves to the affected area. A therapist will squirt a hypoallergenic gel onto the probe to help reduce friction when using the sound head. For several minutes the therapist will rub the sound head in circular motions across the skin, allowing the sound waves to vibrate the tissues. The sound head must move continuously or the high frequency waves can cause slight burns or hot spots.

Physical therapists can also use an anti-inflammatory gel in conjunction with the hypoallergenic gel when administering ultrasound. The ultrasound waves cause the medicated gel to enter the body, helping to reduce inflammation and swelling of the tissues.

Patients will either sit in a chair or lie on a table to receive treatment. Depending on the area being treated, patients may need to change into a gown or robe before receiving treatment.

Specific Conditions Helped by Ultrasound Therapy

Ultrasound therapy works best on conditions that cause swelling and muscle soreness. Some common conditions that would benefit from ultrasound therapy include:

• muscle spasms


• nerve compression


• arthritis and osteoarthritis


• carpal tunnel


• fibromyalgia


• myofascial pain syndrome


• rheumatoid arthritis


• whiplash


• tendinitis


• sprains


• herniated discs

Physical therapy ultrasound is a modality that is used in conjunction with other therapies. The duration of ultrasound therapy is dependent upon the severity of the pain and whether or not the therapy seems to be showing favorable results. Ultrasound therapy is generally safe for most patients. However, patients who have pacemakers, open wounds, have a chance of being pregnant, or recently had surgery should inform the therapist before receiving treatment.

Programs in Massage Therapy - Healing Arts Today

Find Programs in Massage Therapy in the United States and Canada. Healing arts schools offer a plethora of career training opportunities with programs in massage therapy being one of the more popular courses today.

As one of the fastest-growing careers today, massage therapists have the opportunity to earn well over $30 hourly with the right education and training, and experience. Quality programs in massage therapy can afford this rewarding prospect to those pursuing professions in bodywork.

Standard training programs in massage therapy range between 300 and 500 hours. (A number of massage courses may exceed this time frame.) Typical subject matter involves education in anatomy, pathology, physiology, massage theory, communication skills, CPR and first aid, and kinesiology. Depending in which one of the many programs in massage therapy you choose to enroll, massage techniques and modalities may vary. Common modalities include hands-on instruction in Swedish massage, sports massage and deep tissue therapy.

More advanced programs in massage therapy entail diverse training in a wide assortment of bodywork methods like acupressure, Chinese medical massage, infant and prenatal massage, animal massage, geriatric massage, craniosacral therapy, Trager therapy, Trigger Point, esalen massage, Lomi Lomi, chair/seated massage, Indian head massage, cancer massage, and myofascial release, among many others.

Besides classroom experience, many programs in massage therapy offer real-world clinical training on clients under direct supervision of a qualified instructor. Upon successful completion of all required coursework, graduates earn a certificate or diploma of completion; and in some cases, may be eligible to sit for the National Certification exam through the NCTMB (National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork). National massage certification, however, can only be achieved by those students who have completed a minimum of 500 hours in any one of several accredited programs in massage therapy.

Graduates of programs in massage therapy who have become certified and/or licensed to become practicing massage therapists earn the personal satisfaction in having the natural health skills to help in healing patients. Some of the many benefits of massage therapy include back pain relief, blood pressure reduction, stress and tension relief, migraine relief, and relief of many other chronic health conditions and diseases.

If you (or someone you know) are interested in finding programs in massage therapy, let professional training within fast-growing industries like massage therapy, cosmetology, acupuncture, oriental medicine, Reiki, and others get you started! Explore career school programs near you.

*Occupational Resources: BLS (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Programs in Massage Therapy - Healing Arts Today
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Learn Marketing for Massage Therapists - Especially the Uniqueness of Massage Advertising

As a massage therapist, you come in to work each day, see your clients, make them feel better and go home. You feel a sense of satisfaction, knowing you made someone feel better and much happier. Life is good.

The problem is getting clients to come to your practice on a daily basis. Then to return, time and again so they can accumulate the benefits of ongoing care.

This is where the problem lies. Many message therapists only know how to work their craft; they aren't familiar with the business side of things. The best way for you, as a massage therapist, is to get involved in a marketing program that will get you all the clients you need.

This is where marketing for Massage Therapists program will help. You can learn the unique ways to use massage advertising to get clients to your door. Using marketing for massage therapist is vital if you want to build up a successful massage business.

Based on statistics, therapists with busy, successful practices are uncommon, if not rare. It is for this reason that many therapists frustrate over their poor lifestyles and quiet days. Massage is a great career, but for many, not a good way to make money. In order for such a business to work, there needs to be some massage advertising that is put in place in order for the massage therapist to get work.

As a therapist, you can't rely solely on your present clients to help bring in more clients. This doesn't always work. Some clients come for the one-shot deal massage and leave. Others may come on a regular basis. If you had a steady stream of repeat clients, this could you're your business, but it won't help grow your business. You will be stuck in the channel of just barely making ends meet.

As such, by using marketing for massage therapist, you will be able to reach out to the people that matter the most and draw in those that need your services. Massage advertising will help bring in many clients. It is just a matter of working the system and keeping it going.

Marketing is a system where you make connections with people in your industry and geography. It involves reaching out to those who need your services. Once you perform marketing for massage therapist, you will learn exactly who to reach out to and how often. You need to know who to show your massage advertising to.

This is vital. By learning how to reach your audience, you will see an increase in your client-base.

Providing an advertising service is a great way to help your clients, but you don't want to forsake working the business side of things. Otherwise, you won't get an increase in clients. It means depending on your present clients for your work and that is a dangerous thing to do, because you can't rely on them for steady work.

Do the marketing and you will see just how quickly your practice will pick up.

The Healing Benefits Of Foot Massage Therapy

Getting foot massage therapy will not perform medical miracles. It does, however, have healing benefits to certain ailments and diseases.

Cancer

Aside from helping people relax, a massage of ten minutes, five on each foot, is believed to relieve cancer patients from nausea and pain. According to the Indian Journal of Palliative Care, these ten minute massages were given to eighty seven people struggling with this disease. The result was astounding. All of them, one hundred percent of participants, had a reduction of pain almost instantly. They felt much more relaxed and their nausea dropped greatly.

A good old rub on the foot may not cure cancer, but it sure can make undergoing the treatment much more bearable.

Post Op Pain

After being cut open, no matter what part of the body, experiencing pain is a given. Just because the surgery is finished does not mean that the pain will stop too. It is a good thing there are certain ways to alleviate the pain, such as foot massage therapy. The National Institute of Health conducted a study where foot massages were given to eighteen patients after they had come from the operating room. The ten minute rub did not lower their blood pressure or help their heart rate in anyway. It did however give a significant reduction of pain.

Foot Ulcers

This is probably where this type of massage therapy is the most effective because it is done directly on the problem area. The massage will help increase the blood flowing around any type of ulcer which will be good for circulation. This will not only keep the blood flowing to the tissue but the oxygen as well. So, even some of the worst kind of ulcers, like the diabetic kind, will benefit from a simple foot rub.

Cardiac Surgery

Not only do foot massages relive post op pain but can also generate a greater feeling of well being. After having cardiac surgery, getting a massage to the feet will help the patient relax and overcome any anxiety he or she may be facing. Based on a study done by the US National Library of Medicine, twenty five patients proved that they were in a better place psychologically because of this kind of therapy.

Foot massage therapy surely is not a cure for any of the diseases or ailments mentioned above. It will, however, ease the pain and suffering that those illnesses or problems may bring.

Massage Therapy As a Career

Have you been thinking of receiving massage therapy training? The interest in massage therapy, as well as its reputation as a respected healing form, has grown tremendously in the last several years. Years ago massage would bring up visions of questionable "massage parlors" but that is rapidly becoming a thing of the past. With the growing interest in natural forms of healing, massage schools teaching how to give a therapeutic massage are now showing up everywhere.

If you are thinking of making massage therapy a career, I would suggest you receive a number of massages from different therapists first. Get a feel for what kind of work feels best to you. Are you interested in massage therapy that is sports oriented or are you more interested in a more relaxing style? Take note of styles and types of techniques that you most resonate with. Most massage therapists, after working for some time, will bring their own blend of styles and techniques to the table.Therefore receiving massage therapy from seasoned massage therapists can teach you a great deal.

Chances are the style you received and liked will be taught in a school somewhere in your area. Explore the different massage therapy schools that are available. Take a look at the different styles they teach and how many hours of training they provide. Some will provide the minimum number of hours required by your state. Others will provide more extensive training. If your thinking of working in another state, check to see what their requirements are as every state is different.

It is also very common for massage therapists to continue to receive additional training once they have started to work. If your willing to leave your area , there are countless schools that provide short trainings that can even "certify" you in different styles that you can then incorporate into your own massage sessions. The great benefit of doing this, is not only does you massage continue to become better and more specialized, but it continues to make giving a massage more fun and interesting!

Once you choose a massage school that feels good to you, there is no doubt that your massage therapy training will be a truly memorable experience. The journey of attending classes can be a fun and inspiring experience. The training will include receiving work as you and you fellow students practice on each other. This is vital as you continue to experience what does and does not feel good and can receive feedback from the friend your practicing on. Very often a bond is created with the other students and your realization and respect for the gifts of massage therapy continues to deepen.

What Massage School Doesn't Teach You - Client Handling Skills Greatly Increase Client Retention

What is "client handling"

"Client handling" is a term to describe all your interactions with your clients that aren't the hands-on massage treatment itself. These interactions are mostly face-to-face during an appointment with a client, but also could be on the telephone, by email or text message.

Client handling includes elements of professionalism, clinical knowledge and customer service, and requires us to pay attention to a myriad of tiny details relating to how we run our practice. Individually, these details may seem trivial or unimportant, and for that reason it can so often be tempting to ignore them or just not bother. However, when added together, these details send the message loud and clear to your clients that you are an organised, dedicated professional, who has their interests and wellbeing at the centre of everything you do. Great client handling skills plus a fantastically effective hands-on treatment is definitely a recipe for success that guarantees you many clients who will be loyal for years to come, and who will also send you numerous word-of-mouth referrals too.

Why are client handling skills so important?

Customer (or client) service is an important feature of client handling; we are not just in the massage business, we are in the service industry too. As massage has become more mainstream over the last 5-10 years, and massage clients have become more sophisticated "consumers" of massage, they have come to expect excellent customer service as well as a great hands-on treatment. If clients don't like what we do, or how we do it, they will go elsewhere to find a therapist who does give them what they are looking for.

In a very competitive marketplace, the extra mile that you go to provide outstanding client service may well be the thing that sets you apart from other therapists - and be the deciding factor when it comes to clients rebooking with you.

Exemplary customer service is an attitude - it's not what we do, but how we do it; we can't just pretend to care, we genuinely have to care - both about our clients, and about our own standards of excellence. A genuinely caring attitude will make clients feel looked after, respected, and, above all, valued. A client who feels valued becomes a regular client.

Great client care is one of the easiest and cheapest of ways to build a devoted following of loyal clients. If you have worked hard on your marketing activities to get new clients it makes no sense whatsoever not to work equally hard to keep them.

What are the key client handling/client service skills?

A client-centred attitude: your clients should feel that they are getting 100% of your attention and interest, and are at the centre of everything you do, from the moment they walk in through the door, to the second they walk out again. To achieve this requires you:

• to be meticulously prepared and organised: yourself, your massage room and all your equipment should be prepared for your client's arrival, so that once they arrive all your attention will be on them and their treatment

• to find out exactly what the client needs/wants from the session

• to be attentive and tuned in to the clients body throughout the treatment

• to respect that this is the client's time, and not your own

Putting the client at the centre of everything we do makes them feel cared for and valued - and they will value us and what we do for them in return.

Client comfort: the client being comfortable in the massage environment generally, and on the massage couch in particular, is essential in order for them to relax, and for you to be able to give an effective treatment. Items for client comfort include: adequate towels/sheets/blankets for draping the client and keeping them warm; a face rest or padded face ring; bolsters and pillows for support of ankles/knees/neck and lower back; a choice of oils/lotion; a choice of relaxing music; drinking water and glasses; tissues; mirror; coat hangers/hooks for coats/clothes; a fan for hot weather, and a an extra heater for cold weather.

Some of these items are obviously of a more "clinical nature", to enable the client to be positioned comfortably and safely to receive their treatment. Others are more "luxurious" extra touches which send the message that we have anticipated - and made the effort to meet - our clients' needs.

Communication skills: excellent communication skills are at the heart of good client handling. They are involved at every stage of our client interactions: before meeting a client (this could be a telephone or email enquiry); meeting and greeting the client for the first time; during the massage session; during the post-treatment chat; when taking payment and rebooking; during follow-up contact by phone or email.

First - and last - impressions are critical to the client forming a favourable opinion of you, so make sure you give these interactions the attention they merit. Once the treatment session is under way, explaining what you are doing and why, and letting clients know in advance how the session will proceed will put clients at their ease, build their confidence and trust in your expertise and abilities, and generally ensure that they have the best possible massage experience.

Attention to detail: there is no one big "secret", no "one" thing that will guarantee success. A great client experience relies, rather, on you paying attention to numerous tiny details; fantastic customer service is unobtrusive and unfussy, but makes the client feel that their needs have been anticipated and effortlessly met.

Paying attention to these details will establish your reputation for quality and excellence. Once established, it's important to work hard to maintain these standards, and demonstrate your commitment to the highest levels of service.

Individualise your service: one way to make good service great is to treat your clients as the unique people that they are, and to make sure that you are doing all that you can to tailor your time with them to their own individual requirements. Making notes of their preferences regarding things like room temperature, music, oils, areas to be avoided etc will enable you to give them personalised service which they will truly appreciate and value.

Things like making sure they get their favourite appointment time, or sending them an article that will be of interest/benefit to them, are also examples of how we can demonstrate to our clients that we see them as individuals, and value them as clients.

Go the extra mile: always under-promise and over-deliver. Don't just meet expectations - always strive to exceed them; surprise and delight clients with extra touches that cost no more than a little time and effort, but demonstrate your commitment to quality and excellence.

Put things right quickly and gracefully: "A criticism is a gift" (although it seldom feels that way at the time!). If a session hasn't gone well for some reason, then offer some recompense. You could always ignore the problem and take the money and run, but that would result in an unhappy, dissatisfied client who probably won't come back, and will tell all their friends about their experience into the bargain. If you offer to waive the treatment fee, or offer a discounted or free treatment next time, they will feel that they have been heard, and their views respected, and you (very probably) will have kept a valuable client. Things always go wrong from time to time - it's how we deal with these situations that's important.

That said, there will always be people whom we can never please, regardless of what we do, and also do bear in mind that good customer service doesn't mean ignoring professional boundaries. Unreasonable and inappropriate behaviour has no part in a healthy therapist-client relationship and should be addressed accordingly.

To sum up

Good client handling costs you nothing except a little time, effort and energy. Exemplary customer service is one of the simplest and cheapest ways to differentiate yourself from other therapists. Making the effort to pay attention to the details, and continually and consistently apply the highest standards to all aspects of your client care will reward you with satisfied clients and many repeat bookings.

Shoulder Pain Exercises That Heal You Fast

Are you suffering from shoulder pain that seems to be getting worse? Any ongoing pain in your shoulder needs to be taken seriously. The small muscles and tendons of the rotator cuff are very prone to injury and if you're not careful you could end up needing physical therapy or even surgery. Here are some tips on how to heal your shoulder quickly and naturally.

Tips on shoulder pain exercises

The rotator cuff muscles respond best to light weights and higher repetitions - around 15-25 is about right. Any exercise movements must be performed in a very strict and slow manner so as to avoid aggravating your injury. Consistency is the name of the game... perform your routine 2-3 times per week, giving at least one day rest in between sessions.

Pain management

Icing will help to reduce swelling and pain. Try to ice your shoulder a couple times per day. Rotator cuff pain tends to increase while sleeping, so it is a good idea to ice right before bedtime so you sleep better. Over the counter pain relief medication like can help manage the pain also.

Rotator cuff therapy exercises

If your shoulder pain is severe, it is probably a good idea to get on a good physical therapy program you can do at home. Be careful not to choose a random group of exercises you read about online. Shoulder pain exercises need to be in a very specific and progressive manner. Only follow a strict routine developed by a physical therapist who specializes in shoulder injuries. Luckily there are several available you can choose from.

Ventosa Massage Cupping Therapy

My wife frequently has tired and sore upper back muscles. Sometimes, she even finds it difficult to move her head and upper body. Ventosa Massage Cupping Therapy has helped her a lot. This technique "sucks" out what we call "lamig" in the Philippines during the treatment. You will observe the lump inside the glass on your back gradually shrink towards the end of the session. To see is to believe!

Ventosa Massage Cupping Therapy is performed by placing glass on specific accupoints on your back. A technique is used to create a vacuum inside the glass placed on your back which lifts the skin. The practitioner then moves the cup toward the outside parts of the body sucking the air away.

At Chris and Chat Spa, we ask our patients to lie on their back for this therapy. We only use cups made of strong glass to ensure our client's safety. To create a vacuum, a flame from a burning cotton ball is placed in an upside-down cup. When the oxygen in the cup burns out, the cup is placed directly on the skin where it is held in place by a strong suction. This draws the skin up inside the cup. Don't worry, this will not burn your skin. The flame is just needed to create vacuum for the suction effect.

The skin inside the cup reddens due to the strong cupping which indicates that circulation has been brought to the surface. There is a deep warmth and tingling sensation after the treatment. Ventosa Cupping is generally a painless procedure. The redness should disappear in a day or two.

It's interesting to note that this technique is known to open the "Meridians" of the body. According to traditional Chinese medicine, the flow of "qi" travels throughout the body in channels called Meridians. These are the conduits through which energy flows to every part of the body. Illness results when the qi is blocked at certain points or is not flowing properly throughout the body.

Ventosa Cupping opens these Meridians in the body. The stagnated and out of balanced qi can be restored by exerting suction and pressure resulting in invigorating energy flowing throughout the body. Cupping can also be used when qi needs to be drawn to the surface of the body from deep within to nourish muscles and the skin.

To maximize the benefits of a true therapeutic massage, we recommend undergoing Deep Tissue Massage after a Ventosa Cupping Massage.

Massage Therapy Criteria - How to Choose a Massage Therapist

Choosing the right massage therapist can make all the difference in the world. Finding someone who takes the time to access your individual needs, utilizing the appropriate techniques to receive the utmost benefits, can truly be life changing. There are ways to help you in this search of an alternative form of natural healing.

Best Choice - Referrals

Personal referrals from friends or healthcare providers is always a great way to choose a massage therapist. Discuss with those individuals exactly what you are looking for and ask them if they know of a massage therapist that they could recommend. Finding someone that comes highly recommended by a person that you respect and trust brings a credibility factor that can help short-cut the investigation process.

Other Options - Yellow Pages or Online Search

The yellow pages or searching online can also yield satisfactory results in the quest for a good massage therapist. Once a choice is made, be sure to talk with them on the phone or via e-mail before going for your first appointment. Communicate clearly when expressing any concerns and questions and remember to specify any gender preferences if any. Ask if they have a website or brochures that will provide more information. With proper investigation and evaluation, discovering a massage therapist who can provide a positive and relaxed experience will be worth every minute.

Look For Open Lines of Communication

When searching for a good massage therapist, make sure that the lines of communication are open and feel comfortable. A therapist should be eager to share information pertaining to their business and what they have to offer. Any questions that you have should be welcomed in order that your experience will be most satisfying.

Have Your List of Questions Ready

Think about what is important to you and then have your list of questions ready to discuss with your potential massage therapist. Questions to consider would be:

-Are they a certified massage therapist?

-How long have you been practicing?

-Do you have references?

-How much do you charge for a session? Any Specials, Discounts offered?

-How long is a session?

-What type of covering do you use for the client?

-What kind of products do you use? (oil, creams, etc.)

-What type of payments do you accept?

Ask as many questions of your massage therapist as you need to ensure your expectations are met.

Experiment

Once you have found someone that you have confidence in, make an appointment to experience what the massage therapist can actually do for you. Even with excellent credentials, choosing a massage therapist takes some experimentation to see what works best for you. With many different massage techniques to choose from, it may take some time to determine the ideal combination of massage styles that is most pleasing for your taste and needs. Each individual has personal criteria that will determine the ultimate selection. Return to a massage therapist who fits your needs and preferences, effectively treats your issues and provides the tremendous benefits of personalized care.

The Ecstatic Yoni Massage

Have you ever wondered if there was a truly sensual massage just for women's genitals?

Many years ago while studying with Annie Sprinkle, former porn star turned performance artist and tantrica, I learned about a wonderful massage for women, the Ecstatic Yoni Massage.

Since that time I have personally experienced this massage many times and taught it to many of my clients. For years men have been having their lingam massaged and played with at massage parlors and by sensual masseuses. But up until Annie Sprinkle and Joseph Kramer created this fabulous massage for women there was had never been a sensual massage just for women's genitalia.

I can tell you from my own personal experience that having your labia major and minor massaged feels simply wonderful. I mean let's face it, how often do these parts of our bodies get consciously touched? Now girls, I do not mean licked just touched. Not often if ever. This idea of having a specific erotic massage just for women's genitals was revolutionary at the time of its inception but now it is more common. It is based upon some of our acupressure points and that is one of the reasons why I suspect it feels so good.

Some of the benefits a woman will receive are:

• Being able to identify what does and does not turn her on


• Learning how to receive more pleasure


• Becoming very familiar with her clitoral hot spots and being able to say where they are


• Opening to experimenting with some new things and trying them on for awhile

Some of the benefits a man will receive are:

• The ability to know exactly what his partner does and does not like


• Learning how to touch your partner in the way that really gives her optimum pleasure


• Learning how to leave your ego at the bedroom door and just be in service to her pleasure


• Trying out new ways to tease and please your woman, being experimental

The Ecstatic Yoni Massage has several parts to it. The first is Coming Into the Body, which focuses on warming up your lovers whole body. Lightly caressing her, teasing and awakening her erogenous zones as much as possible. Second, Waking up the Neighborhood, which focuses on a few strokes to move over the abdomen. Names like, Over Eggs Easy, The Womb Warmer give you some idea of the playfulness of this massage. Third part, The Vulva, and this part is really fun. My favorite stroke being the Vibrate that Vulva. The fourth part, Miscellaneous strokes which include things like, the Tour de France and Muschi Push to name a few. Then ending of course with the Clitoris.

You can bring your partner to orgasm or not, but the one cardinal rule is to only give her what she wants for as long as she wants it the way she likes it. Guys, this is not about your getting off, it is really an opportunity for you to be in service to your beloved. You can switch at another time and then you can be the one to receive.

You can learn how to do this massage via a print out at the address above or by subscribing to to Annie's U-tube video collection.

Physical Therapy Programs - Courses of Study

Find Physical Therapy Programs in the United States and Canada. There is a vast assortment of physical therapy programs from which to choose. For instance, if you have already attained a certain level of education from one of over 200 accredited physical therapy programs in the United States, you will find that that a number of schools and universities provide extended career training in Masters Degree in Physical Therapy, post-graduate Doctor of Physical Therapy Programs, as well as Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy Programs.

Depending on which physical therapy program in which you enroll, there are several specialized areas of study that are currently available. Various colleges and universities provide practical training in orthopedic physical therapy, geriatric physical therapy, neurological physical therapy, occupational physical therapy, cardiovascular/pulmonary rehabilitation, and pediatric physical therapy, among others.

If you are more interested in becoming a physical therapy assistant (PTA) or physical therapy aide, there are also numerous physical therapy programs primarily designed for the future PTA in mind. Candidates learn how to work under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist after they have successfully graduated from an accredited Associate degree program.

Associates in Physical Therapy programs often take approximately two years to complete and are the educational stepping stone for physical therapy assistants. Upon completion, graduates can go onto attaining their Bachelors, Masters or Doctorates and earn the right to become licensed physical therapists. Depending on the degree course, students can anticipate a curriculum in anatomy, CPR and first aid, physiology, biology, chemistry, and physics; and practical training in therapeutic modalities (including massage techniques, manual and mechanical therapies, etc.). While not all physical therapy schools offer the exact same curriculum, accredited physical therapy programs (by the American Physical Therapy Association APTA) must meet common, and basic educational standards; so while many may differ in specialized training, the academic foundations are very similar.

Once training has been successfully completed in one of countless physical therapy programs, graduates can earn from $24k - $88k annually.* (Depending on level of education, experience and training.)

If you (or someone you know) are interested in finding physical therapy programs, let professional training within fast-growing industries like massage therapy, cosmetology, acupuncture, oriental medicine, Reiki, and others get you started! Explore career school programs near you.

*Salary Source: BLS (US Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Physical Therapy Programs: Courses of Study
© Copyright 2007
The CollegeBound Network
All Rights Reserved

NOTICE: Article(s) may be republished free of charge to relevant websites, as long as Copyright and Author Resource Box are included; and ALL Hyperlinks REMAIN intact and active.

Cyber School Supplies Checklist

If you're looking at this post, then that most likely means you have made the switch to cyber school. So what's next?

Well, you don't need much for cyber school compared to public school. You don't have to get a brand new binder, backpack, new clothes or tons of folders. With that said, if you want to get those things be my guest!

Here is a list of things I find important to have in cyber school:

1. Computer

2. Scanner

3. Printer

4. Notebook

5. Graph Paper

6. Calculator

7. Pencil

8. Flash drive

Let's start out with number one. It's kind of a no brainier really, but it's important to get the right type of computer. Make sure you have one that isn't very slow so you can get your work done on time. Also make sure you know how to use the features on it like Microsoft word or other programs that will be used often during the year. For example if you are used to using PC computer and then you switch to a Mac you'll be very lost if you don't take some time to sit down, and figure out the differences.

Many schools will give the students a computer to use for schoolwork for free. That is what I did. The computer also came with a scanner/printer, and other accessories like a mouse.

I don't always print things unless I need to study something offline or fill out a worksheet, and I can't figure out how to do that on the computer. I do however use the scanner all of the time! I mainly scan things for Math class because about every five lessons there are open-ended questions where you have to show your work. A scanner comes in handy because if you tried to write out your work on the computer it will take about ten times longer than just doing the problem, and scanning it on.

The fourth thing you will probably need is a notebook. I personally find it helpful to write down things, and sort out my thoughts, and it's helpful to have all of your problems and questions in one central location.

Next is graphing paper which I only use for Math class when there are graphing problems. Mostly I do this because it makes my work neater for the teacher and me to try to read.

The calculator is another optional one. I have a nice scientific calculator that I like to use, but you can easily find one of Google that does all of the same things. I just think it's nice to not have too many things up on your screen at once. Less clutter= less stress.

Then there is a pencil/pen. Basically what are you going to write with on your graphing and notebook paper?

Finally is a flash drive. It's pretty risky to always trust a computer to not break down or somehow lose that report you've been working on for the past three days. Also they are great if you want to work on another computer, and need to take a long some files.

Physical Therapy Assistant Salary - Why Physical Therapists Need You

It's really a no-brainer on the part of the physical therapist when he decides to hire one or two assistants. Physical therapy assistants are great help for the therapist and even though he will be paying out a competitive physical therapy assistant salary, the therapist will obviously be earning more income.

How is this so? Once the physical therapist has evaluated the patient and a treatment plan has been devised by the therapist, the assistant can now take over and provide many of parts of the treatment to the patient. The key here is hiring a very reliable and competent assistant and the therapist should still be always supervising the procedure. By having things set up in this way, the physical therapist can attend to other patients whilst the treatment programs of other patients are being taken care of by the physical therapist assistants. By having more patients that can be treated at the same time, the therapist can lower the cost of his physical therapy services with enough income to keep the practice going. With a lower service cost, more people who need these services can now go see the physical therapists for a consultation and treatment.

All of these benefits will be good for the assistant too, because as the practice grows, and as the assistants gain more skills and experience, they will in turn receive a higher physical therapy assistant salary. When done properly, this is a win-win situation for all parties involved. However, physical therapy assistants need to make sure they are in the position to be given these chances of career advancement and a better physical therapist assistant salary first and foremost.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean annual salary for an assistant is $48,950. If you'll be working in the offices of other health practitioners, aside from that of physician, you'll be receiving $46,910 a year. Most therapist assistants tend to work in this setting. Working in physicians offices, meanwhile, will give you $44,120 in annual compensation. If you want to receive the highest therapy assistant salary possible, you should aim to work in home health care services, because assistants here receive a little bit more than $60,000 a year.

Aside from the work setting, another factor that affects your physical therapy assistant salary is the level of experience you have, the training and additional education you have, and the geographical location; as each State has its own level of salary paid to these assistants. Requirements to be a physical therapy assistant vary State by State also; although the minimum educational requirement is an associate's degree, obtained by finishing an accredited physical therapy training program. For more specific information on the requirements, you can and should call your State's licensing board immediately.

10 Simple Steps to Become a Hot Stones Massage Therapist

Are you looking for your first career, or searching for a new career? One of my favorite films about jobs is "Office Space." The movie is about a protagonist named Peter, who gets promoted after trying to get fired. In the end, he realizes that job satisfaction is much more important than any other aspect of an occupation. None of us lies on our deathbed wishing that we had worked another day in our lives. But is it impossible to find a dream job?

Life is short
Unless we inherit millions of dollars or hit the jackpot in the Powerball lottery, most of us work for roughly forty years of our lives. Life is short, so we might as well enjoy our jobs. If that happens, we will be better motivated, more productive, and less stressed-out.

Health is wealth
According to recent research, healthcare will remain one of the most marketable fields in the near future. Baby Boomers make up over a quarter of the U.S. population alone. Within the next decade, their mass retirements will cause the demand for healthcare service providers to skyrocket.

If you are interested in joining the healthcare industry, have you considered becoming a therapeutic massage therapist? Through various types of massages, such as massages with hot stones, you can help to make the world a healthier and more relaxed place. Here are some considerations you should make, before launching your career as a massage therapist:

1. Questions, questions. Are you a caring person? Do you like working with others? Can you "connect" with people? Can you work in an extremely quiet environment? Can you work with minimum supervision? If you answered "yes" to these questions, then massage therapy might be the perfect job for you!

2. Meeting the requirements. Keep in mind that various towns, cities, and states have unique professional requirements for massage therapists.

3. A whole new world. Determine what types of massages you want to specialize in. Do you want to focus on hot stones massages or Swedish massages? Does practicing medical, pregnancy, or animal massages (Yes, even Fluffy and Fido get sore muscles) interest you in particular?

4. School of massage. After locating several massage training schools and programs through the phone book and Internet, find one that meets your persona and needs.

5. Guinea pig massages. Friends, family members, and local organizations are excellent sources to get vital experience as a massage therapist.

6. Be your own boss. Having your own business means more control and more responsibilities, so determine if it is right for you.

7. Landing a job. Find massage therapist jobs through your massage training school or program, newspapers, and the Internet. Also, health clubs, spas, medical clinics and companies need massage therapists.

8. Obtain and retain clients. Remember that the best advertising is through professional and personal referrals. Via outstanding customer service, you can retain your clients.

9. Be (more) professional. Reading magazines and books, taking classes, and receiving massages with hot stones yourself, will help to improve your professional career as a massage therapist.

10. Care for yourself before caring for others. Here are some tips to keep you fit:

o Eat at least three healthy meals per day.
o Get at least half an hour of exercise daily.
o For each hour you are awake, get a half hour of sleep.
o Use yoga or tai chi to maintain balance in your life.

Starting or changing careers can seem like a daunting task. But with some careful research and planning, it can become a piece of cake. Working as a therapist for massage stone massages can become one of the most rewarding experiences in life. It will not rub you the wrong way!

Physical Therapy Programs - Everything You Need to Know

Various physical therapy programs are available for those who wish to pursue a career in the medical field as a licensed physical therapist. The first step toward working in this profession is acquiring the appropriate education, therefore it is wise for students to review all their options before making a final decision.

Physical therapists are professionals who evaluate patients with affected mobility and determine how best they can benefit from the various therapies available.

In all 50 states, such professionals must complete a physical therapy Master's degree program or obtain a doctor of physical therapy degree. Each option must be pursued at an accredited school. Otherwise, the student will not qualify to take the national licensing exam, which is also a requirement in all 50 states for those who wish to practice in the field.

Physical Therapy Programs

Educational Requirements

To enroll in a doctorate or Master's degree program, one must first acquire an undergraduate degree that includes basic coursework in anatomy, physiology and biology. However, some schools will allow students to enroll in a program without much coursework having been completed, although this will vary greatly depending on the educational institution one has selected. For this reason, it is important for prospective students to inquire about such aspects when reviewing various physical therapy programs. All employees require that one's initial education be obtained at an accredited school.

Over 250 colleges and universities throughout the country offer accredited programs. Therefore, finding an appropriate school should not a difficult task. The majority of programs split the learning time between classroom participation and hands-on clinical experience.

Considerations

As previously mentioned, one's options include a master's or doctorate program; however, the emphasis on doctorate programs has grown significantly over the past five years. Additionally, the American Physical Therapy Association's goal is to push for mandatory doctorate degrees for all physical therapists by the year 2020. Of course, this does not mean that the Association's objective will be realized, but it is certainly something that prospective students should consider when reviewing the various programs available.

Time Frame

Due to the fact that the requirements of each program vary somewhat, the time it takes one to complete his or her education will also vary. Factors that influence this time frame include the type of program in which one enrolls in, and the number of general education courses he or she has acquired prior to enrollment. Once an individual has obtained a bachelor's degree in one of the required sciences, a Master's degree will typically take an additional two years. Those who plan to pursue a doctor of physical therapy can anticipate an additional three years of formal education.

Cost

The cost of physical therapy programs will vary based on the type of program one selects and which school he or she attends. However, Master's degrees can typically be acquired for approximately $50,000, while a doctorate program usually costs approximately $65,000. However, it is recommended that prospective students inquire about the average cost in the state where they will be attending school, as these figures may be significantly higher or lower.

Benefits of Chi Nei Tsang Massage

Massage therapy, with its various types and techniques is considered to be the best alternative medical care in providing relief and treatment to various health issues of an individual person. The patient can benefit from the effective therapy which can be done in many different approaches depending on the style of the massage.

Chi Nei Tsang is used as a holistic approach to healing the human body with the principles of Taoist Chinese origins and the natural detoxification process used in the therapy session. The therapy is known for its stand in dealing with conditions by working through the energies running through the internal organs of the client's body.

The therapy uses essential principles and elements of kung fu and tai chi in the therapy. The therapy is not only focused on the physical aspect of healing in each client but also on the spiritual, mental and emotional as well. The therapy is usually performed mainly on the abdominal area of the body where the massage therapist performs gentle, soft, yet deeply penetrating massage strokes that manipulates the internal organs found in that area of the body. During this process, the therapist works on improving all the functions of the various systems of the human body in order to perform at their optimum level.

The therapy itself was known in the ancient centuries as a form of detoxification and strengthening process among the Taoist monks during that time. It is part of their essential training and medical care in order to maintain high energy, alertness, and self awareness against sickness and diseases. It also helps them keep their spirituality at the highest level during their practices.

Chi Nei Tsang is known for its benefits in restructuring and strengthening the various parts of the human body. The techniques used in the massage therapy are capable of addressing the restructure of the visceral structures of the body as well as the proper repositioning of the vital internal organs of the body. The massage strokes are important in providing relief due to the release of tension within the body that can aid in the removal of chronic pain on most part of the client's body. CNT is not only great in solving physical problems but also helps in enhancing the emotional and mental health of the patient. Practitioners of the massage therapy believe in stored emotions that are negative and bad memories trapped on the digestive system of each individual being which needs to be freed and removed in order to promote and facilitate proper health and recovery. The massage therapy helps in releasing emotional tensions that are responsible for various physical problems as well. The therapy also helps the client to have self awareness and gain self-confidence in order for them to properly take care, treat, and protect themselves against all sorts of health problems.

Basically, Chi Nei Tsang is effective in addressing problems in the respiratory, digestive, lymphatic, nervous, reproductive, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, endocrine, urinary, and the key systems or body meridians of a human being.

Six Habits Massage Therapists Want To Have

There are good habits, and there are bad habits; and there are certain good habits massage therapists want to have or consider adopting.

As a society, we're so focused, it seems on breaking our bad habits, which apparently are numerous. As we all know, bad habits are so easy to develop, we don't have to put any effort into their development.

Good habits require effort, but when it comes to business and growing a business, it's good to focus on acquiring certain good habits.

These are a few vital good habits massage therapists want to have, or at least consider adopting when dealing with their clients.

• Always ask your client prior to beginning the session if there are any areas of concern, and what they hope to achieve from the session. In addition to having defined goals for the sessions, if you have a clear idea of what they want, if it's unrealistic, you can address that before the session; and instead, steer them toward a more realistic goal.


• Ask for the sale. Meaning: After you client gets off the table, you want to book their next appointment. Don't wait for them to ask for one. Don't assume they'll book one when they "need" it. Have your calendar out with your pencil poised, and ask, "Is this a good time for you next week?"


• If a month has passed since you last heard from a client, call them to see how they're doing. Don't just wait until they "need" you. If you don't keep in contact, they may forget how amazing you are, or some other therapist may pay more attention to them which will be their gain and your loss.


• Call your client the next day to ask how they're feeling. Set aside a time of day when you call your clients from the day before. It's an important habit to have. It lets your clients know you are concerned about them beyond your table, and it allows you to preempt any dissatisfaction they may have had with their session.


• Set aside a time and day every week to organize your finances. This, for independent contractors and self-employed therapists, is an essential habit to form. Take care of your bookkeeping while it's fresh in your mind, and avoid at all costs trying to figure out what happened eleven months earlier on the eve of April 15th when you need to file your taxes.


• Hand out your business card to every new person you meet (unless you feel they would not be a good match for you and your business). You never know who will appreciate your services, and you never know with whom they'll share your card. Word of mouth is one of the strongest marketing tools available to you.

Despite the long held belief that it takes 21 days to acquire a habit, according to the article "How Long to Form a Habit?" on Psyblog, a study done by Pillippa Lally and her colleagues from University College London determined that the habit one desires to adopt takes anywhere from 18 days up to 254 days, depending on the particular habit.

Whether it takes 21 days or a thousand days to acquire the above habits, they're certainly valuable to consider.

Naturally there are more good habits massage therapists want to have, but the above-mentioned habits are but a few that can almost immediately improve the success of your business; yet, they are good habits often forgotten or ignored.

Do you have any good habits you've adopted that have helped improve your massage or bodywork business? Have the habits I suggested resonated with you?

Choose The Most Suitable Occupational Therapy School And Obtain Your Master's Degree

The careers in the occupational field have become quite popular nowadays. So, you may belong to those young people who would like to be employed in this sphere as well. If you are seriously thinking of becoming an occupational therapist in this quickly expanding field of occupational therapy, it is very important for you to start searching the most appropriate occupational therapy school. The major responsibility of an occupational therapist is to assist his or her patients to return or improve their ability to reach the routine goals in all spheres of their lives as well as professions.

Thus, the patient may be suffering from some psychological, physical, mental, or developmental disease which limits their activities in everyday life. So, in this case the responsibility of a therapist consists not only in assisting the patients to acquire and develop the necessary skills, but also to acquire the so called compensation skills. The compensation skills are those which may replace some other important activities of a disabled person. In order to make it more clear it would be necessary to say that the skills occupational therapists teach their patients include those ones like helping them to dress themselves and even proper usage of a computer for a job. Occupational therapists may use specially designed adaptive equipment for the patient to use, including wheelchairs, facilities for eating or dressing, or orthotics.

While choosing an appropriate occupational therapy schools decide what age group you would like to specialize in as well as the certain specialty in this field. Thus, occupational therapists may emphasize on assisting children. These professionals may visit the school surrounding and assist the child with special therapy or modification. Another group of occupational therapists deals mostly with elderly people, who might have some striking situation or some other exhausting event in their life. It has to be emphasized that occupational therapists should possess a good health and be physically fit. These professionals are required to spend much time standing on their feet, very often they need to lift some heavy things or stretch in order to accomplish their job responsibilities. Besides, occupational therapists have to travel much to the locations where their patients live as the latter are just not able to come to them themselves. So, usually, occupational therapists work up to 40 hours a week.

If you decide to get registered into one of the occupational therapy schools, you are in fact willing to obtain a Master's degree via completing occupational therapy programs. The matter is that an individual has no possibility to enter this professional field without a Master's degree in occupational therapy. In addition, a person has to successfully pass a national certification examination. The greater part occupational therapy schools with this program are full-time, nevertheless, a growing number of schools is providing their students with part-time programs.

In order to be properly prepared for a successful future in the field of occupational therapy, the high school graduate has to cover a curriculum heavy on science. By the way, social sciences are necessary as well. Each occupational therapy student may receive an advantage of volunteer opportunities.

While receiving an undergraduate degree, pay special attention to programs in the sciences and social sciences, including anatomy, and biology, sociology or psychology, or anthropology. After having graduated from an occupational therapy school and obtained your Master's degree as well as begun working in the field, be ready to take part in continuing education. It has to be mentioned that while looking for an appropriate occupational therapy school, make sure that the school you are considering has all the amenities and features you need. These amenities and features should include:

- A high level of graduating students passing the national examination
- Good job placement and guaranteed counseling
- Flexible scheduling if an individual chooses a part-time program

In addition, occupational therapists receive an excellent opportunity to assist other people having temporary or permanent problems with their health. These professionals are prepared to improve the lives of their patients. As you can see, a career of an occupational therapist is a very rewarding and satisfying one. An occupational therapist has a chance to observe their patients grow, develop their physical and mental skills as well as make significant progress. Besides, this professional assists other people to deeper enjoy their lives. You may be quite sure that after receiving a Master's degree in occupational therapy, you will be able to face a lot of job opportunities and further to easily find a job. Just be attentive to receive an education of a solid science and social science background. The solid science and social science background will help an individual to enrich his or her educational experience. With the occupational therapy schools you will graduate with the necessary knowledge as prepared as possible in order to reach a real success in the selected career field. Occupational therapy schools are the first step towards a promising future.

Summing up, it would necessary to say that today is the most appropriate time for receiving an education in the occupational therapy field. If you enjoy communication with people and feel true pleasure from helping them in their need, this kind of a career is just for your!

There is a great number of topics to be focused by a therapist. If you love children you may seriously think of making a career of a child or family therapist. In case if you enjoy assisting people physically a career as a massage or physical therapist may be just for you. If you like to listen to your friends sharing with you their personal problems and happy moments of life or even ask for your help, maybe it would be nice to think of receiving a degree in psychotherapy or becoming a marital therapist.

Every day we meet different kinds of people and the job of an occupational therapist is a noble profession. Besides, you have hundreds of occupational therapy schools across the United States of America offering programs ideally facing your needs. So, don't waste your time and pay attention to the schools available to you! Apply for a therapist degree today!

Is It Easy to Go From Physical Therapy Assistant to Physical Therapist?

Some careers allow you to upgrade to the next level without having to formally furthering your education. It just so happens that the physical therapy profession is not one of those careers. Contrary to what some might believe, you cannot go from being a PTA (physical therapy assistant) to being a physical therapist without completing a PT program and obtaining a degree.

A PTA can graduate in 2 years, while a licensed therapist will need to have at four years of schooling (or more) and needs a degree. While a degree is encouraged for a PTA, it is an essential for a physical therapist. The difference in income is substantial. A licensed therapist can make $45,000 to $100,000 a year or more depending on varying factors. A physical therapy assistant might start at a little over $30,000 a year and top out at less than $50,000 without working over time.

If money isn't what's motivating you, consider the fact that the more educated you are the more opportunities you will have. Although you initially will have to pay the price both in time and effort, over the long haul you will find that you options are much better as well as the compensation.

Is it worth it? Well that depends on your situation. If you have the time, budget and circumstance allow it; it might be the right choice for you. Weigh your options and plan career choices carefully. Doing so will not only make the end result rewarding, it will make the journey rewarding as well.

Pros and Cons of Becoming a Massage Therapist

Shifting from regular employment to running a home-based business seems to be an international trend nowadays. Indeed, thousands upon thousands of people have quit their jobs in the last couple of years in favor of establishing their own business, which apparently has a bigger income potential.

Of course, the kind of income that you would receive from a home-based business would depend on several factors, such as the demand for your chosen product or service, your capability of providing this product or service, and the size of the initial investment.

The good news is that there are actually several types of small businesses that you can choose from so that you can earn the extra income that you need. Service-based businesses like party-planning, catering, house-cleaning, and so on are very lucrative because people are usually too busy to do these tasks on their own because of their jam-packed schedules. It is also because of this busy lifestyle that the massage industry is practically booming nowadays.

Becoming a massage therapist is undoubtedly one of the best career moves that you can make, although there are also some drawbacks that come with the job, as with any other profession. In order to help you determine whether a career in massage therapy would be the right one for you, we have compiled a number of pros and cons of this business for your consideration.

What are the pros?

Just like many other home-based businesses, one of the most obvious advantages of being a massage therapist is that you will be in control of your own time. You can schedule your house calls or client visits as you wish, and you can take as many or as few clients as you want in a day.

However, the most popular reason why people go into the business of massage therapy is because it can bring in a huge income if you do your job right. If you exude an amiable personality in addition to having exceptional massage skills, there is no doubt that you will have many returning clients, who will provide you with a more or less stable business income. The demand for massage service, particularly home service, is also very high so you won't have trouble looking for new clients at all.

Another perk of being a massage therapist is that you get to meet many different kinds of people on the job. Although a lot of massage clients to prefer to be quiet during the massage and just enjoy the relaxing massage in silence, there are also those that like to strike a conversation with the masseuse, which gives you the opportunity to learn more about your clients and build a good professional relationship with them.

What are the cons?

There are not really that many disadvantages of being a massage therapist, except perhaps that it can get tiring for your hands and arms if you have to visit several clients one after the other. However, as mentioned earlier, you do have complete control over your schedule so you can space out the client visits so you will have time to rest in between these visits.

You might also have to spend some time training to become a massage therapist so that you can learn the right techniques that will bring satisfaction to your clients. If you feel that you already know how to give a good massage, you may skip the training. After all, professional training is not required for anyone to become a massage therapist. There is no need for licenses or certifications as well.

Another disadvantage, if you could call it that, of being in the massage therapy business is that you would have to purchase your own equipment before you can launch your business. The largest expense would probably be the massage table, which can cost anywhere from $200 to more than $5000 apiece. In the beginning, though, all you will need is a basic portable massage table, which does not really cost all that much.

Since you will be dealing with all kinds of people in the massage business, you should also prepare yourself to handle irritable and overly stressed out clients, who can be extremely hard to please. However, if you do the massage procedure correctly and efficiently, you can be certain that even the grumpiest client will be in a much better mood after you're done with them.

There really is no definite answer on whether becoming a massage therapist is the right move - this is a question that you and you alone can answer, based on your own interests, preferences and passion. If you are still on the fence, you can try talking to a few massage therapists so that you can get a better idea of what to expect once you do make that major career change.