The 4 Primary Reasons Massage Therapists Get Injured

The average life of a professional massage therapist is 3 to 5 years. Admittedly, many therapists move into complimentary fields of healing or change professions for external reasons, but too many therapists injure themselves through incorrect technique and personal neglect.

The 4 reasons listed below are the primary causes of injury to massage therapists and should be kept in mind at all times.

1. Table Height

The first practical lesson you learn about massage is to set the correct table height. Having correct posture is essential to avoid injury. If the table is too low, lumber muscles remain engaged for the duration of the treatment and if it is to high you need to use extra arm and hand strength to make up for the lack of body weight you can rely on for added pressure. You never know the body width of a new client, so don't be afraid to adjust the table height when the client enters the room. Once they are on the table it is too late.

2. Using Thumbs

Many massage schools still teach Swedish techniques where thumbs play a major role in the sequence of strokes. Circular thumbs feel great - but it is the quickest way to develop a repetitive strain injury or carpal tunnel syndrome. Using thumbs in Deep Tissue massage is also a great way to 'feel' trigger points, but the temptation to apply excessive and prolonged pressure through the thumbs must be resisted. Trigger Pointing tools are available from all good massage equipment suppliers.

Therapists should be taught flat palm and forearm techniques to us instead of thumbs. Sore thumbs would be the biggest single reason that therapists must stop working, and many of the injuries are life long.

3. Massaging Above Their Weight

Clients who receive regular massage get bored with light weight relaxation massages. They develop a strong desire for hard massages - often subscribing to the theory of No Pain - No Gain. Not every therapist can consistently massage at full pressure. Taller therapists or those with greater body and muscle mass are better equipped to deliver hard massages. Often female therapists feel challenged to match the pressure of their male counterparts and although they can often do it - it's a question of longevity. If you are of smaller frame you should look to gain clients who appreciate a different style of treatment that is easier on your body. Therapist should pass on clients who are not suited for them.

4. Working When They Should Be Resting

As most massage therapists are contractor, only getting paid for the treatments they do, it is natural to work extremely hard when the work is offered as quiet times are inevitable. It is important to set yourself limits on the amount of treatments you do, and to monitor your physical and mental condition as you are working. When your body is physically tired your posture suffers and injury is more likely. When you are mentally exhausted your mind wanders during treatment, and again, correct posture is often neglected.

Receiving regular massage is also an important tip for therapist longevity. Not only does it keep you in physical balance, it reminds you of why you got into massage in the first place, and you may even pick up some new techniques!

Massage is a very rewarding career for those who are drawn to it. Helping others deal with stress and pain is a gift beyond measure. Unfortunately too many therapists fall victim to one of the above situations and their career is ended prematurely. Many of the injuries remain for life - even though the massaging stops. Being aware of the above factors is of vital importance for all massage therapists.