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Massage Therapist

Also known as Myotherapist, Soft Tissue Therapist and Sports Therapist.

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

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

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

TASKS

Massage therapists may perform the following tasks:

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

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

physical and mental stamina
manual coordination, dexterity and sensitivity
patience and concern for people
a responsible and mature attitude

Good Outlook for this career!

Interest Area

SPECIALISATIONS

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

Remedial Massage - assists in rehabilitation, pain and injury management.

Therapeutic or Relaxation Massage - promotes wellbeing, improves sleep and treats anxiety and tension.

Sports Massage - treats and prevents injuries, improves recovery and increases flexibility and endurance.

Structural Bodywork - addresses injuries and dysfunction caused by postural and biomechanical strain.

Oncology, Palliative Care and Geriatric Massage - supports the primary care of patients with chronic illnesses, such as cancer.

Pregnancy and Paediatric Massage - supports the primary care of pregnant women and infants.

EDUCATION & TRAINING

To become a massage therapist you usually have to complete a VOC qualification in massage therapy practice or remedial massage. Applicants may be required to attend an interview and obtain a National Police Certificate. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information.

You can also become a massage therapist through a traineeship in Massage Therapy Practice or Remedial Massage.

Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.

Additional Information

Massage therapy is not a registered health profession. However bodies such as the Association of Massage Therapists set professional standards for the industry.

Massage therapists wishing to offer health fund rebates to private health fund members must have completed a Diploma of Remedial Massage.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Massage therapists may be employed in health and fitness clinics, sports clubs, gyms, medical centres and multidisciplinary healthcare practices. They may also find employment with other healthcare practitioners such as chiropractors, physiotherapists and osteopaths. Most massage therapists are self-employed or contract between clinics. There has been a recent increase in employment opportunities in hospitals, particularly in palliative care.

An increase in demand for massage therapists is expected as chiropractors and physiotherapists utilise massage therapy to complement their treatments. The field of sports injury treatment and injury prevention is a growth area. There are also opportunities for massage therapists specialising in relaxation techniques to work at day spas, health retreats and holiday resorts.