by Peter Farnsworth ND

The Massage Industry is continuing to expand as part of the health revolution. This is due to a number of driving factors such as the aging population, problems of stress and a propensity to develop musculoskeletal problems as a result of modern lifestyle.

In order to determine your best approach in studying to be a Massage Therapist, take a moment to look at some of these factors. This will have a big impact on your eventual earning capacity as a practitioner and the type of clients you will look after.

Technology has given many benefits to society, but right from a young age many people are spending long amounts of time in front of computer screens, playing video games or watching plasma screens. As a result, the young and not-so-young are developing chronic postural imbalances that eventually result in neck or back pain and mental stress.

At the other end of the spectrum, like most modern countries, Australia has a growing aging population who have special needs. For example - part of the aging process is to develop aches and pains often leading to chronic musculoskeletal problems and inflammation. Many of these problems need attention and also an on-going maintenance program for preventing them from reoccurring.

Traditionally, many people who had these problems were treated by musculoskeletal therapists such as Chiropractors, Osteopaths and Physiotherapists. However, due to Massage Therapists gaining private health fund provider numbers, many are now seeking the services of a qualified Massage Therapist who spends even more time catering to their needs and solving their issues. Many are looking for a stress-reducing effect during the treatment as well.

It is interesting to reflect on the time required for training of these health professionals. Chiropractors and Osteopaths take five years to complete a Masters degree and Physiotherapists undertake a four-year Degree course. These courses are not taught by distance education and involve a lot of clinical training and assessments. Certainly they are well trained in treating musculoskeletal complaints. Today, Massage Therapists are now expected to treat most of the same conditions that are commonly seen by the above professionals. Sport injuries, neck and back problems, postural imbalances and stiff muscles to name a few.