Back massage

View Schools that offer Massage Therapy Courses.

Back complaints are a major source of discomfort to many people. The spine does a lot of hard work on our behalf and is a complicated structure composed of bones, discs, muscles, and ligaments, all of which are prone to problems. Everyday life places stresses and strains on our backs and so even if you do not suffer from a back condition it still makes good sense to seek out the benefits of a back massage. If you do have a condition or suffer from back pain, a back massage can make a significant difference by alleviating tensions and helping the body to realign itself and recover its natural balance.

Your therapist will start by taking a case history from you, identifying any problems you may have and what you would like to get out of the session. You will then disrobe and lie face down on a couch ready for treatment. The practitioner may use any of a whole host of techniques for your massage. This could range from Swedish massage to aromatherapy and may involve the use of oils. Swedish massage uses five main strokes – effleurage (a light touch), petrissage (kneading), tapotement (tapping), friction (deepest tissue massage), and shaking.

Trigger point therapy works on blood flow and restricts blood flow to an area for up to 30 seconds before restoring it. This brings about a pleasurable rush of blood and a boost to circulation. Deep tissue massage uses these five techniques but makes them slower and deeper to help remove adhesions (rigid tissue) and to work on sorting the deep connective tissue. This can bring profound relief from tensions and muscle spasms. Aromatherapy uses the movements of Swedish massage and combines them with the healing properties of fragrant essential oils.

The upper back is primarily skeletal with shoulders and ribs the focus of attention. As the therapist works their way down, the lower back is fleshier and covers precious organs. An extraordinary amount of tension can be stored in the shoulders and so the therapist will work to alleviate this stress. They may even place a hand beneath the shoulder as they work on it with the other hand. As they work their way along the back they will be using a variety of movements to dispel stress and invite relaxation. Long, flowing strokes will give way to movements to tackle knots and adhesions. Be sure to give feedback to your therapist on whether or not the strength of the movement is suitable for you or you would prefer a lighter – or deeper – touch.

Back massage can be tremendously relaxing and bring mental peace as well as physical release. By removing tensions around the neck and shoulders it can have a significant impact on feelings of stress and anxiety. It can also help to improve posture and to restore greater flexibility and movement to the back as well as playing a role in improving circulation and in toning up the muscles of the back. If you do not have an existing back problem, it can act as a preventative measure to help ensure that your back stays healthy for the future.

Schools that offer Massage Therapy Courses

Rasmussen College

Associate's in Massage Therapy

Earning a degree in Massage Therapy allows you to begin a career in the healing arts where you will be satisfied knowing that you are helping others. Unlike a massage that aims at simple relaxation or stress relief, only thoroughly trained individuals, who provide a specialized type of care, can perform Massage Therapy for medical benefit of the patient.

Massage Therapy Diploma

If you are an Allied Health professional seeking to improve your credentials, you can earn a Massage Therapy diploma at Rasmussen College. Obtaining a Massage Therapy Diploma will ensure you have the basic knowledge, proper training and enhancement of skills necessary to be a successful massage therapist.

Diploma, Associate.
Massage Therapy Diploma, Massage Therapy Associates Degree.
Minnesota, Illinois, Wisconsin, North Dakota, Florida.

Cortiva Institute

Certificate.
Massage Therapy Program.
Pennsylvania, Washington, Florida, Arizona, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey.

The Bryman School of Arizona

Massage therapists work in various places like massage therapy clinics, private offices, doctors' or chiropractors' offices, with sports teams, resorts, at athletic clubs, yoga retreat centers, beauty salons, dance studios, cruise ships and golf courses.

Associate.
Massage Therapy.
Arizona.

American Career College

American Career College has assisted student's success for more than 29 years. There are many options for a massage therapist, such as private practice, medical or acupuncture clinics, chiropractic or physical therapy offices, day spaces, or fitness centers.

Certificate.
Massage Therapy.
California.

Myotherapy College of Utah

Certificate.
Massage Therapy.
Utah.