The Benefits and Challenges of Becoming a Massage Therapist

Becoming a licensed massage therapist can be rewarding but there are unique challenges associated with this profession. Learn more about what it takes to become a successful massage therapist.

The Benefits and Challenges of Becoming a Massage Therapist

Massage therapy is a low-stressful profession that is widely accepted within the healthcare community as a wellness and pain management solution. As a massage therapist, you will play an important role in injury recovery, pain management, and overall well-being, as well as providing clients with much needed relaxation and stress relief. With the increasing demand for massage therapy services, becoming a licensed massage therapist can be a rewarding career path. What I love about being a massage therapist is the ability to work my own schedule. I no longer need to be a slave to office work, which can be draining.

I can also offer supplements, essential oil therapy, hot stones, and other services to my clients. I can also schedule shorter sessions after long 1-hour sessions to give my body a rest. Unfortunately, not all massage therapy jobs are created equal. A friend of mine worked in a casino, spa, and at Massage Envy and had many horror stories to tell. These places don't care about their employees and they are often underpaid and overworked.

This friend didn't take care of herself physically, so it took an especially big toll on her. The emphasis on healthy eating and toning exercises is invaluable for massage therapists. Many places only pay you while you give massages, but you are expected to be there 8 or more hours a day in case there is a walk-in appointment. During this time, you may be asked to do other unpaid jobs such as washing clothes or cleaning for stylists. After only two months of working 10 hours a day, one girl in my class left her first job because she was only paid between 2 and 5 of those hours. After three years in business, I'm now earning about 1000 to 1500 per month.

I'm over 40 years old and I quit my corporate job and saved money so that I could make this transition. Although I'm barely earning enough to pay for utilities, gas, and food, if I didn't have savings I would be struggling and stressed. Without a doubt, life can be stressful. Fortunately, more and more people are getting massages as they see the benefits that massage therapy has on the body, mind, and spirit. If you're considering becoming a massage therapist, it's important to know what to expect from this profession. Standing for long periods of time, physical exhaustion, and injuries are some of the biggest challenges for massage therapists.

The health risks associated with this profession are even greater during disease outbreaks. While most massage therapists report high job satisfaction, they also face unique challenges. One of the advantages of obtaining a massage therapy license is the opportunity to work on your own if you so choose. You will also have the opportunity to help people by developing your career in massage therapy. Of course, some clients will show loyalty in certain markets but it's often more about availability and convenience when it comes to scheduling. Massage schools will tell you that massage therapy is a great profession but it's important to remember that many places only pay you while you give massages.

Tendonitis is another risk of massage therapy for professionals warns the Acupuncture Massage School. One of the main challenges faced by the therapist now is the arrival of clinical chains which have had a significant impact on the market. Because sitting can have a significant impact on your overall health and well-being, this only adds to the healthy nature of massage therapy as a career path. If you pursue a career as a massage therapist, you will be in high demand in most parts of the country. Inform your clients about the potential risks of massage therapy especially if you use hot stones bamboo canes or other tools that can cause injury. Massage envy isn't the worst offender: to become a member of Massage Envy you must commit $60 a month for a one-year contract. With the help of Blue Sky School of Professional Massage & Therapeutic Bodywork here are three reasons why people should enter this field: it's not just about making money; it's rewarding; and it helps people improve their health and well-being.

As healthcare providers continue to add massage therapy as an effective treatment option for various medical conditions, the demand for licensed therapists could increase accordingly.

Meagan Furgerson
Meagan Furgerson

Passionate social media aficionado. Hipster-friendly zombie maven. Friendly music maven. Incurable pop culture fanatic. Professional travel evangelist.