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What is Therapeutic Massage?

Bloomington Illinois massage therapist treating woman patientAs mentioned in the introduction, therapeutic massage is an alternative form of medicine that provides relief from pain and helps people function better. The massage therapist manipulates skin, muscles and tissue to reduce stress and eliminate pain and tension in their clients.  Classic, or Swedish Massage, is the kind of massage that many people relate to when discussing therapeutic massage, and most Bloomington IL massage therapy schools offer it as their primary type of massage.  But keep in mind, there are many other types of massage that programs have the option to include within their syllabus.  Below are some of the more popular examples.

  • Neuromuscular Therapy Massage
  • Deep Tissue Massage
  • Sports Massage
  • Shiatsu Massage
  • Thai Massage
  • Hot Stone Massage
  • Pregnancy Massage

Professionals that work in therapeutic massage are properly referred to as massage therapists. From time to time you might hear them called a masseuse or a masseur, which refers to a female or a male massage professional. However, these titles generally have a derogatory connotation among Bloomington IL professionals and the public at large and are better avoided.

Massage Therapist Training Requirements

Bloomington Illinois massage therapist rubbing female patient's backThe majority of Bloomington IL massage therapy programs require enrolling students have a high school diploma or a GED to qualify. Programs can vary in length from a few months for a Certificate or a Diploma to as long as 2 years for an Associate’s Degree.  How long the programs are will also vary by State dependent on the training hours required for licensing.  Another factor that may also have an effect on the length of the program is whether classes are offered during the daytime or at night.  In addition, an Associate Degree in Massage Therapy may have general education requirements and are often transferrable into a related Bachelor’s Degree Program.  Once you have received your Certificate or Degree, the training doesn’t stop there. The amount and type of continuing education you are required to complete will vary based on the State where you are licensed.  Some states have requirements for both number of hours and subjects covered, such as HIPPA compliance or ethics. 

Massage Therapist Licensing

Bloomington Illinois massage therapist rotating man patient's armOnce you have graduated from an accredited Bloomington IL massage therapy program, you will then need to become licensed in the State where you will be practicing.  The Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx), is a test conducted and controlled by the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards (FSMTB) and is required by most States as a portion of the licensing process.  There are States that have their own or additional exams, so find out from your State prior to enrolling in a massage therapy school.  If you fail the MBLEx in the first attempt, you can take it again after thirty days but will be charged another testing fee.  After obtaining your license, you will be required to renew it in most states, which means complying with renewal requirements and paying a renewal fee.  As previously mentioned, completion of a specific number of continuing education hours are usually required as a prerequisite for renewal.  And if you should move to another State, you will need to get licensed in that new State as well. Each State regulates massage therapy differently, so do not assume that you will automatically be qualified for licensing. Check with your new State before moving to confirm that you have satisfied the requirements to legally practice there. 

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