Therapeutic Massage
Program Information
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Most massage therapists enter the profession because of their interest in helping others and in entering the healthcare field. Their duties may vary from providing stress reduction or health enhancement to working cooperatively with other health care providers in pain management and injury rehabilitation. Massage therapists use their hands to physically stimulate or manipulate muscle and tissue to improve circulation and release muscle tension and pressure.
Massage therapists generally work one-on-one with clients in a quiet setting. They may see as few as one or two clients a day in private practice to as many as 10 or more in a health club or spa. Sessions may range from 15 minutes to two hours in length, depending on the purpose of the massage. Massage therapists may work in a variety of settings, including medical and chiropractic offices or clinics, hospitals or wellness centers, health clubs, fitness centers, spas, resorts, and beauty salons.
Earnings vary with work situation, size of clientele, and experience. In Illinois the Median annual wage is $33, 978. Self-employed therapists charge $25-$50 per hour. More than two-thirds of all massage therapists are self-employed. Some work as contract employees for health practictioners or fitness clubs and earn 40-80% of the massage fees charges. Many work on a part-time basis.