Occupation Profile for Massage Therapists

Massage customers for hygienic or remedial purposes.

Employment is expected to grow faster than average over the 2006-16 period as more people learn about the benefits of massage therapy.
Many States require formal training and national certification in order to practice massage therapy.
This occupation includes a large percentage of part-time and self-employed workers.

Core — Confer with clients about their medical histories and problems with stress or pain to determine how massage will be most helpful.
Core — Apply finger and hand pressure to specific points of the body.
Core — Massage and knead muscles and soft tissues of the body to provide treatment for medical conditions, injuries, or wellness maintenance.
Core — Assess clients' soft tissue condition, joint quality and function, muscle strength, and range of motion.
Core — Provide clients with guidance and information about techniques for postural improvement and stretching, strengthening, relaxation, and rehabilitative exercises.

Performing for or Working Directly with the Public — Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
Performing General Physical Activities — Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling of materials.
Handling and Moving Objects — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
Assisting and Caring for Others — Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.