However, employers who receive Medicare reimbursement require 75 hours of classroom and practical training supervised by a registered nurse. Most employers hire only on-call, hourly workers and provide no benefits. However, some are paid on a salary or per-visit basis. With a variety of hands-on methods, a skilled massage therapist stretches and loosens muscle and connective tissue and improves blood and lymph flow throughout the body. A massage is effective in removing built-up metabolic waste and allowing oxygen and nutrients to better reach the cells and tissues.
Massage therapists practice in a variety of settings.
They work in their own businesses, hospitals, health clubs, sports training rooms, beauty salons and chiropractic offices. More than half own their own practice. The demand for qualified massage therapists has grown steadily as the therapeutic benefits have gained recognition. More physicians are prescribing massage, particularly for victims of auto accidents and other injuries. Although massage therapy can be learned on the job, most practitioners have completed formal schooling.