Massage therapists are licensed health professionals who apply a variety of scientifically developed massage techniques to the soft tissue of the body to improve muscle tone and circulation. Massage therapists work to enhance well-being, reduce the physical and mental effects of stress and tension, prevent disease, and restore health.
Massage therapists use many different massage techniques and methods.
While your physician may refer you to a massage therapist, you can seek the services of a massage therapist directly. Massage therapists may provide services that lead to improved health and muscle function, but they do not diagnose medical diseases or disorders. In addition, New York massage therapists have passed a State licensing examination. You will find massage therapists in private practice, group practice, hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, sporting events like the Olympics, health spas, resorts, and in corporate offices. Massage therapists may identify their practice by the name of the technique, such as Shiatsu or Swedish Medical Massage.