Massage therapists apply manual techniques to manipulate soft tissue – the skin, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia (membranes surrounding muscles). Massage therapists work to increase the blood circulation and flow of lymph (fluid from body tissues that flows into the blood stream). This works to help the body “heal itself” by promoting the flow of blood and lymph, stimulating nerves, conditioning the skin, and stretching and loosening muscles to keep them elastic. Massage also has a positive psychological effect and can help to reduce the effects of stress and tension in the body.

Areas of Specialization
Massage therapists may specialize in sports massage, deep tissue massage, craniosacral work, medical, geriatric, infant and mothers-to-be massage. There are also numerous different massage techniques to choose from.


Work Environment
Massage therapists may practice in a group or as solo practitioners. They can work in a massage office, group practice, out of the home, in healthcare organizations (physician’s office, hospital, clinics, etc.), nursing homes, health clubs and fitness centers, spas and resorts, beauty and hair salons, cruise ships, and for sports teams and events.