Using their hands, elbows or feet, massage therapists work on a patient's body to help relieve physical or emotional problems.
While there are many different systems of massage therapists, almost all use a holistic approach, believing that emotional or personal problems can lead to physical conditions such as stiffness or tension. Common types of massage include body massage (or Swedish massage), Indian head massage, sports massage, and baby massage.
As interest in complementary therapies has increased in the last 20 years, many complementary therapies are becoming progressively integrated into traditional healthcare as a complement to more conventional treatments. This means that opportunities for massage therapists are opening up within the NHS, in private healthcare, as well as in salons, spas and hotels.
The majority of massage therapists are self-employed, with earnings ranging from ?20 to ?45 an hour depending on location and clients. Working full-time in a salon you could expect to earn around ?10,000 a year, rising to between ?15,000 and ?30,000 a year with experience.
For more information on all aspects of training and employment, contact the following:
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