Demand For Massage Therapists Increases As Interest In Benefits
Of Massage Creates More Converts
Projections by the U.S. Department of Labor forecast employment
opportunities for massage therapists to grow by 18 to 26 percent
from 2004-2014.
According to the 2006-2007 Edition of the Occupational Outlook
Handbook, published by the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of
Labor Statistics, the outlook for employment for massage
therapists will "increase faster than average" during the period
from 2004-2014. The Bureau defines "faster than average" as
"increase 18 to 26 percent."
Among the reasons for the growing demand for massage therapists,
the publication cites "massage therapy's growing acceptance as a
medical tool." Apparently, younger Americans appreciate the
effectiveness of massage at reducing stress through relaxation
and the growing segment of older Americans are experiencing
specific therapeutic benefits. The willingness of the "medical
provider and insurance industries" to recommend and cover the
costs of massage therapy is another growth factor cited by the
Bureau.
There are roughly 1,300 massage therapy postsecondary schools,
college programs, and training programs throughout the country.
After enrolling in a training program, massage therapy students
study anatomy, physiology, kinesiology and other subjects
covering the structure and function of the human body. Students
must understand how the body works and moves and how the various
systems relate and interact. Students also train in the various
massage types, or "modalities," and learn the techniques
associated with each form of massage offered by the training
institution. There are dozens of unique approaches to massage
ranging from techniques that focus on a specific area of the
body to techniques that approach the body holistically and
consider both physical and mental aspects of health and
relaxation.
The U.S. Department of Labor estimates that massage therapists
held about 97,000 jobs in 2004. Most massage therapists are
self-employed and own their own business. The balance are
independent contractors or are employed by businesses that offer
massage services. These include spas, health clubs, medical
offices and sports organizations.
An aging population and broader acceptance of alternative
medical practices will only increase the demand for massage
therapists. Baby-boomers will carry their appreciation for
message into their senior years and the elderly, in general, are
recognizing the benefits of massage as a support for a more
active lifestyle. Businesses have begun offering on-site massage
to employees to help deal with on-the-job stress and help
improve productivity. Health insurance companies are recognizing
the contribution of massage to overall health and many are
including massage in their coverage.
The outlook is bright for existing and potential massage
therapists. The occupation offers a great deal of flexibility
and an opportunity to operate independently. Income levels are
fair and growing and the social aspects are quite attractive to
those who enjoy helping and interacting with many different
people. Enrollment in massage schools is on the rise and good
schools, ambitious students and increased demand bode well for
future massage therapists.