Many people are unaware that massage therapists come from many different backgrounds, not all of which are created equal. As massage therapy becomes a more and more important part of health and wellness, there has been a significant increase in the number of therapists. The American Massage Therapy Association estimates there are between 300,000 and 350,000 therapists in the United States currently. So, how do you know which is the best therapist for you?

Why Your Massage Therapist Needs a Massage Therapy Degree

Here we will dive into massage therapy a little bit, but more importantly we will examine why a massage therapist needs a degree so badly and why you shouldn't trust those without a degree.

Becoming A Massage Therapist

One of the most common routes to becoming a licensed massage therapist is through certification at a massage therapy school or program. These programs include courses in anatomy, physiology and massage techniques. A certificate can often be earned in nine to twelve months and it prepares a therapist for licensure in a state.

Once a therapist is licensed, they are ready to go and can serve in a spa or massage office or hospital. What is often overlooked is that therapists can achieve their education through alternative methods.

Massage Therapy as a Degree

Specialty schools like the Colorado School of Healing Arts provide a two-year program for an enhanced study of massage therapy and other anatomical aspects. In addition to anatomy, physiology and general massage techniques, the two-year program includes a focus on kinesiology, pathology and speciality massage. Therapists who get a degree will also learn about health care laws and regulations and business practices like marketing and management.

A two year program gives these therapists to specialize in additional techniques, like neuromuscular therapy and cranial-sacral massage.

Neuromuscular therapy is a science-based practice that focuses on the various regions of soft tissue in the body. This particular therapy considers the underlying factors that may be causing a patient’s complaint and evaluates the regional causes of pain. NMT providers have extensive knowledge of the pathologies that affect different areas of the body and how treatment of each can help in pain relief. NMT is very beneficial for patients who suffer from chronic pain conditions.