Become a Physical Therapy Assistant - Top Four Tips for a Successful Career

Have you always had a flair for helping people? Then you can do even more by becoming a physical therapy assistant. Through this concise guide, you will learn four tips that will not only help you start your career in this field, but will also ensure you of making it a successful one.

Tip # 1) Learn your responsibilities.

You need to understand this job to be able to succeed. You will be asked to perform duties that are similar to those of a physical therapist. This means that you will conduct therapeutic exercises and provide massages. However, because your main duty is to help the physiotherapist, you will be in charge of observing patients and evaluating their progress. Plus, as a physical therapy assistant, you may also perform clerical duties like ordering supplies and completing forms.

Tip # 2) Understand what you, a physical therapist and a physical therapist aid do.

To avoid any mix ups, you should understand the job descriptions of a physical therapist and physical therapist aid. A physical therapist will help patients with therapeutic exercises and massages. He/she will design the patient's rehabilitation therapy and works with him/her for weeks, months or even years. An assistant will be supervised by the therapist while performing treatments. As for an aid, his/her duties differ from those of a physical therapy assistant. An aid helps in making therapy sessions more productive, keeps the treatment area clean, and prepares the patient for therapy. An aid is also supervised by the physiotherapist, but he/she may report to the assistant.

Tip # 3) Choose the right training for you.

Choosing the right training program is one of the factors that can affect your employment chances and expected salary. You need to enroll in an associate's degree in physical therapist assisting to be allowed to practice. However, make sure that the program is an accredited physical therapy assistant program. Call the institute offering this training and ask whether it is accredited or not. Also, make sure that your curriculum includes basic medical sciences and other general education courses.

Tip # 4) Ask around for your state's licensing requirements.

In most states, all you need to start practicing as a physiotherapist's assistant is an associate's degree from an accredited program. However, you should always check whether your state requires that you have a specific license to practice. At most, you may have to sit for a state examination, earn a CPR and First Aid certificate, and complete a physical therapy assistant internship.

With these tips, your career as a physical therapy assistant is going to be smoothly paved out for you.

Massage Therapy Training - What Does it Take?

Massage therapy is growing in popularity because of the many health benefits that it contains. However, we the realization of the benefits is not something that is recent. As a matter of fact, massage therapy has been used for approximately 2,400 years. It was actually Hippocrates who noted that friction has certain health benefits. In modern times, massage therapy is being used for treating tired muscles, reducing stress, taking care of painful ailments, and even in physical therapy as a tool to rehabilitate after an injury.

The massage therapist massages the soft tissues of the body in order to improve circulation. This improvement in circulation removes waste from the muscles. Anytime there is any sort of waste product in the muscle, the muscle doesn't work properly. Administering massage therapy does take a special type of training, which is not hard to acquire.

The training

There are almost 2,000 massage therapy programs within the United States today. They exist within post secondary schools and in colleges. There are many career centers that offer massage therapy courses. Students can acquire financial aid to take the classes or they can pay out of their pocket. The cost of the class is usually not as much as your traditional college course. This is because massage therapy programs do not last as long. There are some programs which last as little as 10 months to a year. The focus is just on massage therapy and the curriculum that is required to prepare for it.

The curriculum includes learning anatomy, the organs and tissues, and the physiology of the body. Massage therapists also learn business ethics and they study body mechanics and motion.

Learning massage therapy is also very hands on. In order to properly learn the techniques, the student must practice frequently. This is usually done with their fellow students before taking their newly learned techniques on the road. Many massage therapy schools will take their students to sporting events, such as marathons, to give massages to the marathon runners at the end of the event. This helps speed up muscle repair and makes the runner feel much better.

What does it take?

Now that you know that finding a school is easy and that getting in is fairly easy, you simply have to have a drive to learn. As stated before, the classes do not last that long. This means you have to learn a lot in a short period of time. With the proper motivation, you can do that.

In the end, you do have to take the National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork. This is an exam given by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork and they do have their own criteria that must be met.

There are several areas that are covered by this exam. They are: kinesiology and physiology, pathology, therapeutic massage assessment and application, anatomy, ethics, professional standards, and legal and business practices.

Once this exam is passed, you can run with the world. This is because you can be employed within a chiropractor's office, a fitness club, another type of doctor's office, or you can have your own business. If you can acquire your own massage therapy equipment, then you will make the highest salary by having your own business. This is because people will pay a lot of money for a quality massage.

So if you don't think you have what it takes, know that you are wrong because you do. Find a school, enroll for the class, take the class, take the exam, and then decide what it is you want to do from there. There are many career possibilities, so run with them.

Marketing For Massage Therapists - 5 Marketing Tips For Massage Therapists

One of the most important methods for marketing for massage therapists is to introduce yourself and your business to other business owners within your community. Getting to know other business owners that have already created a trust and respect with their customer base is a really powerful way to attract massage clients. You can offer a discount to their customers, simply ask for referrals, or give the business owner a % of the money earned from the referral.

Another great method of marketing for massage therapists it to donate gift certificates to different organizations within your community. Not only will people see this as a generous thing to do and gain respect for you and your business, but it also exposes your massage services to a wide range of people that might not otherwise receive massage. This is a great opportunity to help the community and help your business at the same time.

Furthermore, figuring out your target market, or the type of people you want to market your business to is crucial if you are going to attract potential clients. Make sure you are marketing to specific issues or problems that people might be having, instead of marketing just massage therapy. For instance, you could market to pregnant women that are suffering from low back and hip pain and provide your skilled massage therapy services as the solution to their problem. Speaking to peoples problems in your marketing will no doubt set your apart from your competition.

In addition, you must have a website that details your massage therapy business. Marketing for massage therapists isn't just about placing ads and making brochures. If you are going to be successful you must have a website that speaks to those in your community who are searching for a massage therapist. Having a website is like having a marketing funnel constantly working for you. Without one, building your business will no doubt take much longer.

Lastly, you must have some type of referral program in place to reward your existing clients. Marketing for massage therapists always needs to include leveraging your existing client base. You have already built a trusting relationship with your existing clients, why not utilize that trust to attract more clients. Make sure you reward your existing clients with some type of discount or gift. They will feel appreciated and continue to refer more clients your way. Make sure you have a referral program in place at all times.

As you can see, there are many different methods for marketing for massage therapists. Once you grasp the different types of marketing necessary to attract clients into your business, you will begin to see a huge increase in how many massages you are doing per week. Keep working hard and don't give up. With the right mindset and hard work you will no doubt be successful

How Does Massage Treatment Relieves Back Stiffness?

There are a few options to choose from when trying to find effective back stiffness treatment. Massage therapy for example, is among the preferred treatments for the condition and with good reason. Studies have confirmed that a massage can help in cutting back trouble and improve sleep range and motion of the joints too. Here's more.

The massage treatment does the most simple; it improves blood circulation in hurting areas and deadens discomfort. This is what a lay man understands but there's more to massage treatment. It takes away the excess lymph in the blood and decreases swelling and provides sciatic and other related discomfort alleviation.

Redness is frequently an accompanying symptom of discomfort. It serves as the body's defense mechanism and often appears as a reaction to an infection or injury. Generally, soreness is seen around muscles or joints and is known to cause heat, pain, redness and swelling in the affected area.

The increased quantity of lymph and redness in the body exerts stress on the influenced arteries and can cause them to ache. This condition also hinders proper blood circulation in this area which discomforts the nerves. Thus, massage treatment works best to revive standard blood circulation and eases pain.

Massage therapy has other benefits too. There are no complications of this treatment and you won't need to worry about the costs too. Whatever are the advantages, this treatment does not work best at the time of harsh sciatic pain. It works only when the pain subsides a bit. You have to be terribly careful re the right method of massage being used on you because if the massage is being done in a wrong manner, it may land you in a bigger trouble. So, get it done from a pro only.

A qualified massage therapist should have a real understanding of the body, muscle imbalances and the way to work with the body. Additionally, a therapist should utilize various methods to offer maximum pain alleviation. Ideally, consultants use energy systems together with the conventional massage. Though there are a few styles of massage, there are some that are way more preferred like orthopedic massage, St John Wort's massage and medical massage. While looking out for a specialist, you may wish to go for one who specializes in one of those techniques.

Sciatica and different kinds of back trouble need a more physical solution than massage. Massage may help stretch your body a small but it cannot rectify muscle imbalances and postural dysfunctions. So, it might be better if you use this alternative cure for sciatica and other forms of back trouble in association with other treatments.

Research Continues to Show the Benefits of Massage Therapy

Although many people enjoy massage therapy just for the sheer pleasure of it, massage also has many measurable therapeutic benefits. Many in the mainstream medical community have embraced it for its ability to help patients manage pain, relieve anxiety and improve overall health.

Peer-reviewed research continues to show significant benefits of massage. For example, in the last three years:

• Researchers at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus, Ohio, published a study in the Journal of Pediatric Psychology (2009) that showed how massage therapy can be used to reduce pain, anxiety and depression in children suffering from Sickle Cell Disease.


• A study sponsored by the Institute of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health (2008) revealed that a therapeutic massage can immediately reduce pain and improve the mood of people suffering with advanced forms of cancer.


• The German Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG) reported that classic massage, Thai massage and acupressure can help relieve lower back pain (2010).


• A first-of-its-kind study published in the Journal of Patient Safety (2010) revealed that 50 percent of hospital patients can enjoy significant relief from postsurgical via "non-traditional" methods such as massage therapy.


• An issue of the Mayo Clinic Health Letter (April 2010) cites massage techniques as an effective treatment for fibromyalgia.


• Researchers in Cedars-Sinai's Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences have reported in Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine (2010) that people who undergo massage experience measureable changes in their body's immune and endocrine response.

According to O*Net Online, the online employment resource sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, job growth for massage therapists is projected to be "faster than average" for the 10-year period between 2008-2018.* During this period, demand for massage therapists is expected to increase 14 percent to 19 percent nationwide. Local demand will, of course, depend on local economic factors.

Tinnitus Relief - Can Massage Stop That Ringing in Your Ears?

Tinnitus--ringing or other "phantom" noises in the ears--is common and usually harmless--but it can drive people crazy. It can rob sufferers of sleep, concentration, and peace of mind. There's no one cause, and no one cure.

When to See Your Doctor

According to the Mayo Clinic, you should see your doctor if your ears start ringing after a cold and it doesn't go away within a week. If ear-ringing appears suddenly, with no apparent cause, or if it comes with hearing loss or dizziness, see your doctor as soon as possible.

Can Massage Help?

If serious causes have been ruled out, and treatment from your doctor doesn't seem to be helping, you might try massage.

Yes, you read me right--massage!

Surprisingly, massage can help in some cases. There are four main types of massage to try.

Trigger Point Therapy

Trigger points are sensitive, tight muscle "knots" that can be found in any muscle in the body. They can cause a whole host of weird problems in addition to their most common effect of referring pain elsewhere in the muscle.

Researchers have found that trigger points in the jaw and anterior neck can contribute to or cause ringing in the ears. Deactivating them with targeted trigger point massage may bring relief or at least lessen the symptoms.

Trigger point therapy is a specialized form of massage, so you'll need to make sure that a prospective massage therapist is familiar with it.

Lymphatic Massage

Gentle lymphatic massage (lymphatic drainage) to the neck, jaw, head, and ear are worth trying, especially if inflammation is playing a role in the problem.

Lymphatic massage, like trigger point therapy, is a specialized form of massage that requires additional training beyond the basics of massage school. You'll need to confirm that a prospective massage therapist if trained in this particular therapy.

Myofascial Massage

Fascia is the connective tissue that's found everywhere in the body, including the face and ears. It can get tight and restricted. Myofascial massage to the big muscles in the front of the neck can help to loosen and relax the fascia of the inner ear, which might help stop ringing ears.

Most licensed massage therapists will be able to provide this form of therapy.

General Swedish Massage to the Head, Neck, Jaw, and Chest

Besides being generally relaxing and having an impact on the muscles and fascia of the face and ear, Swedish massage to specific neck and chest muscles can improve or resolve thoracic outlet syndrome, which is thought to be a cause in some cases of tinnitus. "Thoracic outlet syndrome" is simply tight muscles in certain neck and chest muscles that constrict nerves and blood vessels serving the arm and other areas.

All licensed massage therapists should be able to provide you with Swedish massage to the face, neck, head, jaw, and chest.

If nothing else, massage helps you to relax, which will make irritants such as ear-ringing subjectively easier to bear. Not to mention that it's good for your overall health, and it's enjoyable!

All these massage techniques can also be helpful in other minor ear problems such as ear pressure issues and pain with airplane landings.

You can find information about other alternative therapies at the American Tinnitus Association website.

Remember: Do not pursue any advice given here if it conflicts with the advice of your doctor, and don't continue doing it if it makes your symptoms worse.

Massage Therapy Benefits

Massage therapy has been utilized for many years to relieve muscle tension and to lower stress and pain levels. Anyone who has had a session can testify that it can definitely relieve tension, re-align your spirit, and refresh your energy levels. There are lots of good benefits to therapeutic massage, and an experienced therapist can make all the difference.

A growing number of individuals are switching to massage therapy to help them overcome the stress and constraints of daily life. Once named "rubbing", massage treatment requires using many different compression techniques on one's muscles and soft tissues, hopefully ending up with an improved state of general health and well-being. Here are some of the benefits you can expect from these procedures:

Reduce Stress

With a regular massage there are so many benefits, not just to your body but to your entire well-being. One very clear advantage of massage therapy is it helps relieve stress. Almost all modern Americans experience stress in different forms, whether it be from work or family.

Loosen Stiff Muscles

Massaging stiff muscles increases blood circulation to them which helps to remove lactic acid. Lactic acid build up in muscles is what makes them feel sore and stiff. Any kneading of the area can help remove this toxin, helping the muscles to feel more relaxed.

Reduce Pain

Massage therapy is likewise effective in the control over pain, acute or chronic. This could be from direct stimulation of nerve endings or by increased blood flow to the manipulated area.

Reduce Toxins

This is exactly what makes massage an excellent tool for enhancing the reduction of unwanted or waste elements all over the body. Together with these benefits, therapeutic massage enhances the endorphins that are the natural painkillers for the body.

In conclusion, massage therapy regularly aids in common ailments, decreases pain, making you feel less tired and provides you a broad sense of increased well being. It increases your consciousness and respect for the body, thus providing you substantial health benefits.

What You Need to Know Before Using a Massage Chair for Back Pain Relief

Back pain is quite a nuisance and can impair your performance in work, school or any activity that you do. In common cases, this can be caused by muscle spasms and tightness. It can easily be relieved with a massage from a masseuse or one from your massage chairs at home.

However, this isn't the case all the time. There are situations in which having a massage to relieve back pain is contraindicated, especially getting one from a massage chair. There are times when a massage can make the condition worse than it already is. It is important that you know when to use a chair to relieve back pains and when it isn't advisable to do so. Here are some things that you need to know:

1. Don't get a massage when you have a fever - Though it's quite tempting to get a massage when you have a fever, especially when you feel your muscles aching, you should refrain from doing so. Fever is a natural defense mechanism of your body to isolate and ward off harmful microbes or foreign bodies which have entered your system. If you get a massage, you will increase the blood circulation, allowing the microbes to circulate further into your body.

2. Avoid massaging inflamed areas and those with mending bones - When there is muscle inflammation or commonly known as myositis, or other inflamed tissues, it is not advisable to provide a massage on the areas that are affected. This includes conditions like arthritis, phlebitis, etc. Broken bones also present the same case. Massaging an area where broken bones are located may cause them to break again.

However, if these conditions are localized in certain areas of the body, a massage around the area may be done as this can help improve blood circulation going to those areas and hasten the healing process. You should be wary when using a massage chair since it is designed to put pressure on an area of the body at a time. It may not be able to massage around the affected areas, unlike manual massage.

3. Chronic pain or cancer-related pain - If you're suffering from chronic back pain or back pain that persists even with massage or other treatments, it is advisable that you stop having a massage and try to relieve the symptom. Instead, see your physician as soon as possible. Chronic pain may be caused by serious conditions like cancer.

If you are diagnosed to have cancer, using your massage chair to relieve back pain is also contraindicated. Apart from blood circulation, massage can also help improve lymphatic circulation. Now, both blood and lymphatic circulation is an avenue for spreading cancer cells to other areas of the body. By stimulating these circulatory systems through a massage, you can also hasten the spread of cancer.

4. Osteoporosis - This is a condition where the bones become porous and brittle, and it is a common in elderly women. You should try to be careful or avoid having a massage to relieve back pain with this condition. Because of the fragile condition of the bones, it can easily break and cause bone fracture.

Physical Therapist Salary And Employment Statistics (Get The Facts)

Today there is a wealth of information available for nearly every profession, in terms of employment potential, job outlook, salary levels, and specific information about where individuals in the field work and what they do. All of this information is available for physical therapy as well, and it can help you gain a better understanding for what the field is all about, and why it has become so popular. Take a look at all of these facts and findings to learn about physical therapy as a career in today's world.

A great place to start is the job outlook and prospects for professionals in the field. The Bureau of Labor Statistics, or BLS, provides decade-long projections for every industry and field. For physical therapy from 2008 to 2018, there is a projected 30% uptick in jobs. That is obviously a very high rate of growth, and is much quicker than average. When you look at the number of jobs that translates you to, you see a total of more than 56,000 new jobs becoming available.

But it's not enough to know that there will be jobs coming available for these professionals. You also have to know what these jobs actually will be, and what you'll be doing. For physical therapists, 60% of jobs are located in hospitals or health practitioner offices, offering a majority of the employment for licensed, practicing physical therapists.

Even though that's a very high number, it still means that there is another 40% of physical therapists who are plying their trade in other environments. For example, physical therapists work in nursing facilities, outpatient and rehabilitation care centers, adult day care, schools, and of course, private practices, just to name a few other potential options.

Now that you know where you'll be working, in addition to knowing that finding a job should be pretty easy with the right education and full licensure, it's also time to take a look at salary levels. In 2008, the most recent data available as of this time, the median annual salary for physical therapists was $73,000. Taking a closer look, the top 10% earned at least $104,000, while the bottom 10% earned less than $50,000.

Those different environments and settings mentioned above translate to slightly different median salaries. Physical therapists working with home healthcare services average the highest wage, $77,500 annually, while nursing care facilities offered $76,500, and hospitals offered $73,000, for example.

Once you take a look at all of these statistics and facts for physical therapy, you can begin to understand why the field is emerging right now. There is a very high rate of job growth, a number of different environments and work settings, high salary levels, and much more. The time to become a physical therapist is now, and then you'll be able to take advantage of all of the above for yourself.

Massage Therapy Careers - Rewarding Professions in Natural Healing

Find Massage Therapy Careers in the United States and Canada. Candidates seeking massage therapy careers discover that a great deal of training and education goes into becoming a professional massage therapist. Students drawn to this natural therapy should possess an outgoing personality, effective communication skills and an entrepreneurial desire for success.

Massage therapy careers are on the rise as more and more clients and patients are turning to alternative and complementary medicines to combat common health disorders and conditions. For example, the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, part of the National Institutes of Health, has ongoing clinical trials and studies that demonstrate the effectiveness of mind-body medicine as a complementary healing system (so often facilitated by those in massage therapy careers).

In addition to spas, salons, chiropractic clinics and medical facilities, massage therapy careers can be found in non-traditional healthcare settings - such as resorts, cruise ships, airports, convention centers, hotels, racetracks, and other sporting events.

Individuals must first, however, acquire appropriate training and education from one of several massage schools, colleges or universities to gain entry-level massage therapy careers. General training encompasses anatomy and physiology, kinesiology, deep tissue massage, Swedish massage and sometimes, sports massage. While standard training entails a minimum of 300-500 classroom hours, some programs well exceed 1,000 hours. In addition, a number of massage colleges provide degreed massage therapy courses.

Students seeking massage therapy careers can also apply to advanced training programs in myofascial release therapy, craniosacral therapy, lymph drainage therapy, Tuina, chair/corporate massage, medical massage, among other subject matter.

Overall, massage therapy careers are comprised of natural healers and massage practitioners who have a strong desire to help others. In addition to having a meaningful profession, persons who have successfully met all academic and training requirements can expect ample job opportunities – according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, massage therapy careers are on the rise and expected to grow throughout the coming decade. Furthermore, professional massage therapists can earn well over $30 an hour.

If you (or someone you know) are interested in finding massage therapy careers, let professional training within fast-growing industries like massage therapy, cosmetology, acupuncture, oriental medicine, Reiki, and others get you started! Explore career school programs [http://school.holisticjunction.com/clickcount.php?id=6634739&goto=http://www.holisticjunction.com/search.cfm] near you.

Massage Therapy Careers: Rewarding Professions in Natural Healing
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Running Smooth: The Importance of Regular Checkups

Everyone who drives is familiar with this situation: you're cruising along and all of a sudden, there's a noise coming from the engine that you haven't heard before, or maybe the feeling in the gas or brake pedal seems a bit off, or there's smoke, or a funny smell. There are many tell-tale signs that your car needs servicing and the best thing to do is to bring it in before the problem escalates. But what is equally important, is to bring your vehicle in for regular checkups and tune-ups even if everything seems to running smoothly. Similar to our own health, we don't always visit doctors when we feel ill, but have regular checkups to mark our physical development and watch for problems. Regularly-scheduled visits to the auto mechanic are just as important for maintaining a healthy engine and a safe ride.

How often you should bring your car in to the garage is based either on elapsed time, or the amount of kilometers driven since your last checkup. Not every aspect of the vehicle will be inspected on every checkup; but there are different recommended tune-up periods for different parts of the car. Knowing which order of priority to give to each part is an essential module in mechanic colleges.

Every Three Months or 8,000KM.

This is the basic checkup. The most important thing here is the engine oil. While one could read engine oil levels themselves and add more oil if needed, with this checkup it is recommended to change the oil and clean the oil filter. It used to be believed that the oil should be replaced twice as much, but today this is seen as unnecessary and wasteful.

Other parts of this checkup will include checking other fluid levels, like brake fluid, washer fluid, and coolant fluid.

Every Six Months or 16,000KM.

All of the previously mentioned checkup points are included here as well. One new aspect is the wheels and the tires. Fist, the alignment is checked and reset. Then, the tire pressure and the depth are checked. Related closely to the wheels is the braking system, which should be thoroughly inspected.

A basic cleaning of some of the engine's components is also done, like the battery and the spark plug wires.

Every Year or 25,000 KM.

This is considered the most important checkup, and it is recommended with new cars to bring the vehicle in to a licensed dealer service shop rather than any garage. The above aspects are checked again. Most parts that are often simply cleaned should be replaced at this point, like the spark plugs and the windshield wipers.

Further cleaning of the engine takes place, like the fuel filtration system, the brake pads, and the radiator. Basic nuts and bolts are checked and tightened as well.

Every car is different and every service shop or garage has varying methods for checking and maintaining a vehicle. Skilled auto technicians are graduating from mechanic programs all the time to work in a variety of shops to guarantee each car is given the service and attention it needs for a long life on the road.

Massage Tips - When and How Much

How much to tip a massage therapist can be a confusing thing. On one hand you have the spa massage therapist that can be put in the same group as nail technicians and hair stylists. Another group is sports massage therapists and medical massage therapists. Typically people in the medical profession don't receive tips for their services. Lastly, what if you are not from the United States? Different countries have different customs. For example, Canada reimburses its citizens for massage, thus massage is seen more as medical service versus a pampering service.

Below are listed the basic rules of how to tip a massage therapist:

Table Massage Tips Basic Rules

Massage therapist in a spa or outcall massage (at your location) - 10-20% of the total bill.

Massage therapist in a medical environment, such as Chiropractor, etc. - normally no tipping*.

Chair Massage Tips Basic Rules

Chair massage that is paid by the customer - 10-20% of the total bill

Chair massage paid by an employer or trade show - normally no tipping*.

*If you do want to tip, ask what the establishment's guidelines are. Tipping may be against the company's policies or they might not mind. Each situation is different.

What if you don't want to tip?

An exception to all of the above is when a customer doesn't want to tip and it's not a reflection on the services they received. Customers have a right to not tip because tipping is a courtesy. Many massage therapists I know are grateful for tips and don't expect them. Tipping, and how much, is ultimately the decision of the customer.

Beware Hidden Tips

Lastly, a word of caution; in many tourist areas, a spa or salon will add a tip to the bill for the customer - without asking! This is an automatic process at many places. Then, because the customer is not aware of this, the customer will add a tip to the bill not realizing they're double tipping! This is an unfortunate reality that massage customers need to protect themselves from.

Hopefully this has answered all your massage tip questions. Remember, if in doubt; ask the massage therapist or company. They will be pleased that you care enough to want to tip.

Lead Therapist Positions in Casino Massage

Casino Massage & Poker Massage Programs Require Dedicated Management Personnel

Within the Casino Massage or Poker Room Massage industry we see many companies employ the "Lead Massage Therapist" position as an economical yet flawed approach to manage daily operations. Not only is the lead therapist position one of ineffective and limited managerial supervision, but both continuity of gaming experience and operational consistency are lost all too frequently due to this position's turnover rate. Ultimately, this absence of proper supervision and control is the main source of poor customer service.

Managing the daily front-line operations of a casino massage company for over 4+ years, I have come to realize and understand the importance of a dedicated, impartial and equitable managerial staff to maintain the highest standards of customer service.

In this first article we explore one topic: Limitations of dual role, lead therapists supervising while also performing massages services. Additional related topics and points will follow in subsequent articles.

Although highly unlikely, for the purpose of this article let us assume that the lead massage therapist in question has the proven ability to lead, is a formally educated and seasoned manager, is well-versed in the finer points of conflict resolution, is completely familiar with any and all emergency procedures, and has acquired years of casino/gaming-industry specific expertise.

Even presuming the above list of impressive credentials to be accurate, we still have to ask, how much time can a lead therapist devote to supervising up to six others while also performing tableside massages for the majority of his or her own work shift? From my own experience, individual massages last anywhere from 20-40 minutes each on average and in extreme cases, therapists have been retained for the entire duration of the work shift. I have, on few occasions, monitored poker massages that have continued for more than 8 hours! Suppose that this particular massage therapist was indeed designated as the manager or as the "lead therapist". The managerial faculty during those 8 hours would effectively be reduced to zero.

While the above example is an infrequent but not unrealistic occurrence, consider an ordinary shift where the average time spent performing casino massage services consists of approximately 70% of the therapist's total time on duty. The remaining time is readily taken up by the working therapist's individual advertising efforts, records keeping, preparation for pending services, and regular breaks. Yet again, any managerial duties would suffer due to the lack of time allocated for such responsibilities.

The non-stop nature of gaming industry compels casino massage companies to operate virtually around the clock, 7 days per week, 365 days per year. The massage profession by its very nature is especially physically demanding and therefore most casino massage therapists are scheduled to work no more than 18-20 hours per week. During a 168 hour work week the number of lead therapists needed to cover all shifts would be nearly 10. Designating that many therapists as lead and then strategically scheduling them in order to cover the entire work week would surely prove to be an ineffective solution if not a nearly impossible plan.

It should also be noted that most lead therapists are commendably making every effort to maximize their earnings and therefore desire to stay as busy as possible performing casino massage services in order to do so. It's no surprise that these dual role employees are more concerned with actually performing casino massage rather than managing casino massage.

It seems a simple enough concept to understand; one cannot be tied up doing the job and be expected to supervise others at the same time. Casino massage therapists will be occupied with their job duties during most, if not all of their scheduled shifts. Furthermore, the working therapist will be confined to one small area while performing services and are not able to patrol and observe the vast sprawling span which is characteristic of the typical gaming floor.

Expanding upon this topic, we must now ask how well the lead therapist can fairly distribute the workload of customer requests for poker massage services in a timely fashion while he or she is occupied and unable to complete the chain of communication between the casino resort, the guests, and the other active massage therapists.

To give some insight as to the aforementioned chain of communication, requests for casino massage services on a busy gaming floor originate almost entirely at the guest level but are also frequently initiated by casino hosts. The request is most often communicated via telephone to the massage company's on-duty manager. Information relayed is generally comprised of the guest's personal preference for a particular therapist, the exact location within the casino for the service to be performed, the time desired for the service to commence, the number of therapists needed, and whether the service will require casino comp approval.

The lead therapist (who we have already established will be performing hands-on services 70% of the time) would not even be able to answer the request call, let alone be privy to the information needed to satisfactorily fulfill the request.

Back to our question; how well is the lead therapist equipped to deal with customer requests for casino massage services? The rather troubling answer to this question is that without any accurate situational awareness of where co-worker therapists are located within the casino, a running tally of the time remaining for each therapist's service currently being performed and the individual guest's preferences, the lead therapist will not be able to deal with customer requests very well at all. It should be obvious that in these situations, customer service levels are diminished to an all time low, and the guest will quickly associate this poor service with his or her overall gaming experience and with the property itself.

Given the above examples, it stands to reason that when the most simple and basic fundamentals and functions of management can't be accomplished through this "lead" position, it's safe to conclude that more complicated matters would be completely out of the scope of the lead massage therapist's managerial capacity. Such matters include the fair distribution of the work load, employee behavioral and disciplinary issues, customer complaints, employee conflicts, scheduling, absenteeism, emergency procedures, and all facets of player development/relations. One could also go so far as to conclude that as it relates to the casino massage industry, the lead therapist position is essentially the equivalent of having no managerial presence at all.

At this point one might ask why any poker massage/casino massage company would ever utilize the lead therapist position. The answer is simple, cost is the main factor. It's far more expensive to hire, train and employ a qualified managerial staff than it is to assign a current employee additional responsibilities. Most massage company owners realize the deficiencies, issues and conflicts associated with lead therapist positions and gamble that they will go largely unnoticed or at least unreported by casino executives, managers and casino staff who are already fully involved with their own daily tasks and duties. A better question to ask would be why any casino resort would contract with a massage company that solely employs these poor alternatives for legitimate management solutions.

Luckily, not all casino massage companies are the same. Some understand the importance of a dedicated, impartial and equitable managerial staff. They know that it's more expensive to recruit, train and retain the right people, but they realize that their reputation and customers are just that important. Few are committed to the highest standards of customer value, professionalism and ethics. Few confidently invest in experienced, quality management and staff, and are guided by an unwavering belief in the true meaning of World-Class service.

One of the many instances to illustrate the importance of dedicated managerial personnel happened when a woman playing Black Jack was overheard expressing to her dealer just how much "getting out" once a month on Friday night means to her. She sincerely confessed to him, "This is the highlight of my year. I work nearly 60 hours per week and don't have many friends in the area. Coming here for a drink and playing a few hands once a month is my little getaway. I thoroughly enjoy it!"

The empowered personnel (manager and massage therapist) made the perfect decision to politely offer a 20 minute of service free of charge. What better way to complete her overall experience than to offer a complimentary massage service? Pleasantly surprised she accepted and it goes without saying that she will not forget her gaming experience that night.

While this chance to delight the customer appears to have jumped out and presented itself, I believe it was only so clearly apparent because unlike the owners and lead therapists of many casino massage companies, this team of dedicated management personnel worked on the front-lines everyday and were accustomed to seeking and recognizing these types of opportunities.

It's only through time, experience and maintaining a constant presence on the front-lines that one can develop that 6th sense of "customer awareness". That is how to become truly in-tune with the energy of the casino resort and in-tune with its most valued resource: the resort's guests.

Benefits of Massage Therapy

The Benefits of Massage Therapy can be applied from infants to the elderly. So, what is massage, and what are the benefits?

Massage is form of manual therapy, which manipulates the soft tissues of the body, primarily the muscles. It is used to relieve tension and reduce stress, while it promotes the relaxation, circulation and suppleness of the muscles of the body. It is also used for the treatment and rehabilitation of injured muscles.

The origins of massage date back to China around 3000 BC. The Ancient Chinese used a technique called "Amma". Other Countries such as Japan and India had similar techniques, while the Ancient Greeks used massage as part of their daily fitness routine. Hippocrates, who is known as the father of all medicine, wrote of the importance of massage for healing purposes.

A Swedish Physiologist and fencing master Per Henrik Ling (1776-1839), developed a system of massage after studying in China. It is this system that still forms much of modern massage to day, and due to the man that developed it, it became known as Swedish Massage.

The Main Benefits of Massage Therapy are as follows:

It promotes relaxation of the muscles of the body thereby reducing stress.

It reduces tension in the muscles of the body and therefore, promotes flexibility.

Relieves Back Pain caused by excessive tension in the muscles of the spine and back.

Relieves Neck Pain caused by excessive tension in the neck muscles.

It promotes circulation, and aids digestion and the removal of waste products.

It improves the body's skin tone and colour by removing dead skin cells.

By promoting flexibility of the muscles, it relieves tired, stiff joints.

By promoting relaxation of the muscles, it helps to encourage a deeper more relaxed breathing, and a more restful sleep.

It has a soothing, comforting affect on the body, thereby relaxing the recipients mind and reducing the effects of anxiety.

It promotes a general feeling of relaxation and well being.

Is Barber School Right For You?

First and foremost many may believe that barber school and beauty school are one in the same, however by definition this has become a sweeping statement to say the least. Barber schools are primarily concentrated on the study of hair and its many forms. Barbering is gaining the ability to understand the difference in hair types and its relevance to ethnicity. Most seasoned barbers or stylist will be able to identify the variations of hair and its infinite needs.

What is taught in Barber School?

While attending Barber school the student will be taught the fundamentals needed in order to provide total hair and skin care services to men in need of this service. Even though barbering is most often taught within a cosmetology or beauty school, there are also private barber schools which are solely designed to specifically provide education within this historic profession. The student's curriculum will consist of services such as steam facials face massage, foam shaves, modern razor styling, hair cutting, cutting, permanent waving and blow drying techniques. The courses provided are to train and prepare the student for their state board exam in order to acquire their state issued barber license. Barber school can also provide complete knowledge and courses in barber shop ownership and business management. The student will attain the knowledge needed to understand commonly used concepts, practices, and procedures within the barbering field.

The students typically train on mannequins in the beginning stages of their curriculum. The training is being provided by licensed barber instructors, and eventually with enough practice the student will then move on to actual clients in order to develop techniques as the courses advance. Learning how to properly manage all hair types is the essential part of course. All schools should include with in there courses the various hair and scalp conditions that come into play when trying to provide a service. A huge factor in proper barbering is to know that the health of the client's hair and scalp is the most important part when providing and attaining optimal service.

What Requirements are needed to become a Barber?

A high school diploma or its equivalent prior to enrollment is what most schools require. However checking with your states licensing requirements prior to your enrollment is a good idea. It is recommended you make contact with the licensing department within your state when inquiring about changes in programs or required hours.

Finding the Right School for You

Explore the different schools available and ask all the questions may have in order to make a valid choice. The right barber school for you may not be the right school for others. Building your strengths and technique will be what makes you stand out over other barbers, especially when you begin to attain a following. Barber school will educate you in cultivating your unique strengths and how to maintain a professional demeanor. These are necessary beginning steps in attaining gainful employment anywhere you might choice to take your career.
What is the Cost of Barber School?

The majority of schools offer full-time or part-time course loads, and the tuitions will vary, based on the nature of the courses, the hours needed, and where the school is located.

What Career Opportunities are offered to a Barber School Graduate?

Countless students that graduate from barber school go on to work for an already established shop, or ultimately open up their own.

How Much Do Barbers Earn?

Based on a search at salary.com, as of March 2010 the salary of a barber in New York City can range anywhere from a little as $20,211 up to $44,777. Salaries will vary based on your location, experience and clientele.

Massage Therapy - Good Or Bad Choice For a Career?

If you're looking for a first career or considering a career change, massage therapy could very well be a promising choice. On the upside it can be financially rewarding for some, work schedules can be quite flexible and the possibilities of meeting interesting and entertaining people is perhaps near endless. It's important to note that employment options are the result of several factors, which include one's own hard work, professionalism, experience, work attitude and local market conditions.

Like any other career possibility in life, you should go through a process of inner reflection that allows you to discover the massage therapy discipline's true appeal for you. You will also need to be honest in a personal assessment of your own skills and physical abilities. You may often have to stand and maintain physical rigor for long periods of time when working with clients.

Massage therapists should have a good degree of dexterity and physical endurance. However, one of the most important skills you will need are people skills, which are quite often over looked in a personal assessment.

You will need to develop a good feel for people to approach them in ways that never threaten their comfort zone. The ability to do this is quite often an innate talent that may not necessarily develop in a classroom or hands-on training environment. Some talents are simply expressed best through an inner knowing.

Another thing to consider in being able to realize a massage therapy career is the respect and accreditation status of the school you hope to attend for training. Does the curriculum prepare you for what you will encounter in the real-world? Is the teaching staff knowledgeable and experienced? Is there a sound system in place that will help you find placement when it comes time to launch your career?

Perhaps the best and most reliable source of information is from the learning institution you are interested in attending. Schools that maintain a solid accreditation status will have a qualified staff of personnel that can walk you through the steps of training, how to enroll, and the financial assistance programs available for those who qualify.

There are a lot of questions that will need to be answered before you can arrive at a decision that allows you to pursue massage therapy as a career. Training in this field, with respect to required hours and curriculum may vary depending on where you hope to find employment.

There are many massage therapy courses offered that can give you the necessary training for an entry-level position.

Physical Therapy Benefits For Back Pain

Physical therapy benefits for back pain are many, the chief among them being that the patients improve their mobility and are assured a greatly improved quality of life. Complete cure from back pain is a slow process and systematic physical therapy is the best option to achieve total relief from this debilitating condition.

Physical therapy benefits for this common musculoskeletal disorder depends to a great extent on the treatment methods the therapists utilize. For curing this musculoskeletal disorder condition, therapists make use of both passive and active therapies. The workouts in active therapies include stretching and strengthening exercises under strict monitoring and the therapists also make use of therapeutic exercises. The passive physical therapy modalities include heat and cold therapy, ultrasound, usage of electrical stimulation, massages and joint mobilization. These forms of therapies are far more advanced and more scientific than the ordinary massages.

Physical therapy benefits for back pain can be many, if the patients adopt correct postures when walking, sitting, driving, lifting weights and doing other activities. To obtain the real benefits, the therapist will assist the patient in doing a number of exercises which will help to reduce the disorder caused by incorrect postures.

The role of the patient is also important as regards securing maximum physical therapy benefits. The patient should strictly follow the instructions given by the therapists. The supervision of a trained therapist is a must. These programs require time to show its benefits, and equally important is the fact that the patient has to approach the treatment in a perfectly positive way. In general, the objective of exercises and these techniques are to reduce back pain, increase function, and provide awareness to patients regarding the importance of maintaining effective care after the therapy process so as to prevent further occurrence of back pain.

To conclude, physical therapy benefits for back pain are great, but to get effective results, care must be taken to follow the treatment in the proper way and strictly under the supervision of an able therapist.

Professional Liability Insurance For Therapists

The profession of therapy demands personal interaction with people on a day-to-day basis and therapists face situations daily where you are open to the possibility of charges of wrongdoing. Your clients could hold you responsible for damages they have received, resulting from an alleged negligent act, error, omission or malpractice arising out of your professional capacity as a therapist.

In the unfortunate event that such an allegation is made, a Professional Liability policy will provide coverage for defense costs and expenses and any subsequent damages awards making this type of insurance essential for all healthcare professionals.

For those therapists that are employed by a Healthcare Service provider, the Professional Liability coverage placed by their employers will provide coverage for those incidents arising while the therapist is acting within the scope of their duties performed on behalf of the employing entity.

In addition to the coverage provided by an employers Professional Liability policy, it is also advisable for Therapists to consider purchasing an individual Professional Liability policy for the following reasons:

Do I have enough coverage?

Today's astronomical malpractice awards can quickly exceed coverage limits. If you, as an individual, are named in a malpractice lawsuit and your legal costs and settlement or judgment exceeds the limits under your employer's policy, you may be required to make up the difference. An individual policy will provide additional coverage up to the limits selected (typically $1,000,000 per claim / $3,000,000 annual aggregate).

Am I covered when I am off-duty?

Many policies cover you only when you're working. That means you could be financially liable for contract work performed after hours, Good Samaritan assistance, volunteer activities or even casual advice to a friend or neighbor. Individual policies usually provide protection to you 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Is my coverage shared with others?

If you're covered by an employer's policy, your liability limits may be shared by other defendants. Shared limits decrease your individual protection and increase your personal financial liability. Even worse, in some states you could be found liable for the financial responsibility of others. An individual Professional Liability policy provides 100% personal protection with no shared limits.

Does your employer-provided insurance include license protection?

In addition to being named in a malpractice lawsuit, one of the most serious risks that healthcare professionals face is the suspension or withdrawal of their license - without which you lose your ability to work. Employers rarely provide license protection, and in fact, may even be the source of the complaint. An individual policy will usually provide coverage for your defense of disciplinary charges arising out of covered medical or non-medical incidents.

To illustrate how therapists can be vulnerable to Professional Liability claims, the following is a summary of a recent claim filed alleging a negligent act, error or omission against a physical therapist:

Richey v. Turocy

The lawsuit was brought against the hospital, defendant orthopedic surgeon and the physical therapist. The plaintiff alleged that the defendant's physical therapy treatment caused a subsequent heart attack. The defendant hospital maintained that the defendant physical therapist was experienced, properly trained and should not be expected to make a referral outside the scope of the therapy. The verdict was rendered in favor of all defendants.

Reduce Your Risk with this Liability Checklist

As you begin each workday, your main goal is to provide the best possible care to your patients. But in this litigious society, you also have to make sure that none of your actions leave you vulnerable to a lawsuit. A quick reference of basic risk management guidelines may help to ease your concerns and no matter what field you work in, these basic tips can go a long way toward keeping you from being sued.

Know your job

Always ask yourself if the care you're about to give is within your scope of practice. If you have any doubts, consult your employer. Your employer has written standards of practice, based on your State practice act, your professional organization's guidelines, and your facility's policies and procedures.

Stay up-to-date.

Be sure you're competent to perform your job. Keep your certification current. Make sure you receive timely, adequate training on new equipment and never use equipment you haven't been trained on. If you feel your skills are insufficient in a particular area, ask about additional training.

Maintain your professionalism.

A patient is less likely to sue a healthcare provider she likes, so be sure to act professionally. Always treat the patient with respect. If possible, speak to her directly and maintain eye contact. Listen attentively and don't interrupt. Ask the patient if she has any questions: If her concerns fall outside of your scope of practice, contact the appropriate healthcare provider to come and see the patient.

Document, document, document.

It's become a risk management cliche, but it's true: If you didn't document it, you didn't do it. If you fail to write down that you did a thorough assessment or provided the patient with a particular treatment, it could become your word against hers in a lawsuit. Be sure to document the status of the patient before and after treatment, how receptive she was to patient education, and your response to any concerns she had.

Chart any telephone conversations you have with the patient, family, or other healthcare professionals about the case. Document, too, any time the patient cancels treatment or fails to keep an appointment. If she repeatedly misses appointments, make a notation of your attempts to contact her to discuss the problem. Make sure all of your entries in the patient's chart are legible and easy to comprehend.

Protect patient confidentiality.

Discuss the patient's care only with the appropriate personnel. Never talk about a patient in a public place, such as an elevator or cafeteria. If you have to fax patient information, make sure the recipient is standing by to receive the transmission so no one else reads it.

Choose Different Kinds of Physical Therapy Equipments and Supplies at an Online Medical Store

Physical therapy is the combination of physiology with exercises and then application of these principles on the patient's body after the sustenance of an injury. It is specifically designed to reduce pain, restore muscular flexibility, improve overall motor skills, increase strength and endurance and bring the tendons and ligaments back close to their actual length so that they can assist the joints to do their job in a better way. From muscle injuries to spine motion, it is used in the treatment of various medical problems. It is also important for the promotion of good health. These equipments have been designed to aid the patients and to make the therapy more effective. There are different kinds of equipments and supplies available at online medical stores.

Most of the physiotherapists nowadays prefer the use of these equipments as they are easy to use and support treatments and at the same time reduce problems. There are different kinds of equipments available which are specially designed in accordance with the various types of physical therapies ranging from the devices which aid in daily activities to exercise equipments like magnetic pedal exerciser, vertical shoulder exerciser, etc. These equipments are exclusively made to cater the demands of patients who need to be under the constant support and care of physical therapy.

Some of the common physical therapy equipments are biofeedback units, compression therapy units, diathermy accessories, exercise equipments, CPM (Compressive Passive motion) units and many other which are generally used for the treatment of different types of body pains. Apart from these there are other equipments meant for the exercise of hands and legs like exercise balls and elastic bands. These equipments and products are easy to use. They are comfortable, have flexible designs, adjustable and can be used as required and portable so that they can be carried anywhere easily.

The online medical stores supply all these equipments starting from treatment units like traction units, electrotherapy ultrasound units, patients' lifts and slings, dry therapy equipments and many more at reasonable prices. In addition to the equipments, the online medical stores also provide the physical therapy supplies and products. The online medical supplies and equipments are of superior quality and thus ensure efficient performance. These are also easy to access and you can get all the necessary details about the products and supplies. They also provide the price list which makes the platform even more convenient to use and buy from. So you can choose different kinds of these equipments available at numerous online medical stores and can buy them at affordable prices.

Physical Therapy Assistant - Historical to Modern Day Applications

The origins of physical therapy are very interesting. Many of the physical agents used in modern physical therapy treatments, were also used in ancient times. Greek and Roman writings have been found, that refer to beneficial effects of the sun, water as well as exercise and massage. It is also known that the ancient Chinese, Persians, and Egyptians also used these types of treatments.

The field of modern physical therapy was developed in Great Britain in the latter part of the nineteenth century. Not long after, American doctors specializing in orthopedic surgery began training women graduates of physical education schools to provide care and treatment for patients in clinics and hospitals.

The military was the beginning of specific training and education in PT, as the first physical therapist, and physical therapist assistant programs were developed at Walter Reed Army Hospital, in Washington D.C. Soon after the commencement of world war one, an additional fourteen schools were established. The original therapists were known as reconstruction aids and were engaged primarily for the military.

Some Interesting Points in History

1881 The Sargent School, the first school of modern physical therapy opens in Boston. 1920 The first American Women's Physiotherapeutic Association Organizational meeting is scheduled and attended in the city of New York.

1942 Enactment of Public Law 828 considers and makes a determination of women Physical Therapists as world war two era members of the Military Medical Department of the Army, with rank of 2nd Lieutenant.

1946 American Physiotherapy Association changes name to the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA).

1956 Scientist Jonas Salk introduces a vaccine for polio. Physical Therapists play a prominent position in testing the vaccine prior to public distribution. Thousands of American children who are afflicted with polio require continued treatment.

1967 The APTA establishes a doctrine to allow the training of PT Assistants.

Physical Therapists also known as healthcare clinicians review and care for individuals of a wide variety of ages, from newborn baby's, to the oldest geriatric, who suffer from medical problems as well as additional health associated conditions, and injuries which restrict a patient's abilities to be mobile and conduct normal activities as they might on a daily basis.

The use of history as well as a physical examination is customary in order to reach a clinical diagnosis including the establishment of an effective treatment plan. Physical therapists can develop management plans that include the prescribing of or help with exercises, massage therapy, core physical treatment and other therapies. PT assistants may treat patient's to help prevent restricted mobility by promoting conditioning and physical fitness oriented programs for healthy and improved quality living.

Since the role of a PTA requires certification and licensure, prospects who are considering this occupation may conduct research into a physical therapy assistant salary. What you will find is the fact that an investment in your education of approximately two years, can yield a potential income of six figures.

Additionally further research into physical therapist assistant schools, will provide lists of accredited scholastic institutions located all over the United States that can provide an excellent education and at an affordable tuition rate. Further, these educational entities can also provide scholarships, and grants to reduce costs significantly.

Massage Therapy For Improving Your Health and Wellbeing

Most people I know say that their health is one of their top priorities. Unfortunately, the reality is that is what they say not necessarily what they do. This is sad to me, because we all know that we have to take good care of ourselves. The reality is that we take our bodies and health for granted. Well that is until something happens. Then we kind just wake up and then maybe we take care of ourselves-at least for a while. We have to make health a priority. We need ways to counteract the affects of stress and find balance in our lives. One method that helps people decompress from stress is massage therapy and the most convenient way to receive it is from a massage chair.

The stress we encounter at home or at work causes a build up of chemical reactions in our body and we need a consistent method to counteract this affect. Massage therapy in general is very effective and massage chair specifically can give you consistent access to this health treatment. Massage chairs are very advanced and can provide full body massages. They are particularly effective in relieving aches, pains and discomfort which can result from the build up of stress in our bodies. The massage chairs of today offer a tremendous variety of comprehensive and effective massage treatments.

Many studies are showing the positive benefits of receiving regular massage treatments. There is a misperception that massage is somehow a luxury item. Sure there are spas that offer some tremendous and expensive treatments, but massage therapy is becoming a more mainstream treatment. It can help to increase the circulation of blood and lymph; reduce your stress levels; relax the muscles, improve your flexibility and range of motion. However, the studies also clearly point out that these benefits are achieved from regular massage treatment. Just like your diet. You cannot expect to lose weight by changing one meal.

The convenience of a massage chair cannot be understated. The biggest obstacle we hear for receiving regular massage therapy is the time involved with going to a massage therapist. We just simply do not have time in our busy schedules to do this on a consistent basis. This is precisely why having a massage chair can be very convenient. You can get a 10 minute warm up massage before you hop in the shower or just before you go to bed. No appointment need and you have access around the clock.

We will be the first to admit that getting a massage from human hands is definitely the best method. There is just something special about the touch of a human that has no comparison. But then again, getting this on a regular basis is where the real benefit is obtained. The other factor in saving time with a massage chair is that the operations can be performed in parallel. A masseuse works one area at a time, then moves on to the next. Overall, it takes about 50 minutes to effectively cover the body. A massage chair works in parallel. It can massage the full body all at once. Working in parallel cuts down the total time required to get a massage.

The second biggest obstacle to receiving regular massage therapy is the expense. Seeing a massage therapist on a regular basis is not cheap. In fact, in time it is expensive. A one hour session runs about $50 per hour plus tip. A massage chair on the other hand is much cheaper over time. A $3,000 massage chair has a minimum of 1,000 hours of life and many have 2,000 hours. If we use the 1,000 hours, then an hour of massage therapy is $3 per hour. No tip required. This is a huge economic advantage.

We all say that our health is a priority, but few take the necessary action required. How hard is it to sit for 10 minutes and relax your body and mind? For some impossible, but for most of us, it is very possible. Why not start to establish a routine that helps to reverse the effects of modern day stress. Your health is not a luxury, and neither is having a massage chair to help you bring back that critical balance in your life.

Ayurvedic Massage Treatment

Ayurveda has been one of the major forms of treatment of several ailments; it is used in the treatment of various diseases and deformities both physical and mental. Recently Ayurvedic message has emerged as one of the boosting therapy for human kind.

Ayurvedic massage therapy though does not provide a complete therapeutic cure but it assists the individual to receive nutrients from within the body and to expel the harmful toxins.

Various deformities pertaining to the muscles, ligaments and nervous system can be cured via ayurvedic massage therapy. Diseases which are caused by deranged muscles etc. massage therapy is the best remedy for that. Ayurvedic massage therapy involves the practitioners who do the treatment from the knowledge of the Marmas or Indian pressure points. Ayurvedic massage therapy is an ideal remedy for pain like headache.

Ayurvedic Body Treatment is accompanied with a dry, silk glove exfoliation, followed by a warm herbalized oil application. Therapist applies a mask of purified and herbal clay collected from deep in the earth in remote regions of India. This soil mask nourishes as well as detoxifies the skin, leading to more glow and smoothie feel. The massage if finished with a hot towel wipe down, at the point where you will be given a robe and escorted to the shower to rinse off the remaining clay.

Ayurvedic massage is helpful in treating:

o Tension and infections of the gums and teeth.

o Acidity

o Gastritis.

o Inflammation of the stomach.

o Severe Ulcers

o Intestinal disorders

o Disorders of the fallopian tubes.

o Kidney disorders.

o Disorders of urinary tract.

o Neuralgia.

o Formation of cataract.

o Disorders of the brain and the spinal nerves

Ayurvedic massage therapy can be a real cure in case of arthritis, rheumatism, neurasthenia, high or low blood pressure, sciatica, paralysis, polio and insomnia. In all these cases, the massage practitioner should however also prescribe specific medication, changes in daily habits, exercises, etc

Sensory Issues at School - Get to Know Your Child's Team of Teachers and Aides Early On

The preschool or elementary school child who has sensory processing issues will spend much of her day with one teacher. From year to year, she will work with some of the same teachers and therapists or other professionals (if she receives special education services). However, when getting to know the team that will help your child at school, don't forget to meet and speak to the other adults she'll be interacting with. If your child has had difficulty before with a special class such as physical education or art class, it's a good idea to speak to this specialty teacher at the beginning of the school year to establish ways that he or she can help your child function better in class. If your child is receiving OT services or help on a consultation basis, your OT can help you and the teacher come up with solutions and strategies for helping your child with this particular class and its environment.

As soon as possible, get a hold of the school day schedule for your child and note when particular classes are held. Often, sensory kids have difficulty with transitions, so settling down for a class held after recess, physical education, or lunch time may be difficult. Your child may be able to stay focused and cooperate in computer lab far better if she has some sensory diet activities to help her focus after the intense stimulation of being on the playground. Similarly, she may be fine with physical education first thing in the morning after walking to school or getting a little playground exercise to perk her up, but have difficulty shifting to physical activity after independent reading in a quiet classroom.

If your child will be receiving services from a new therapist, you might ask if she'll be attending the school orientation, where you can talk about what she does in general, or you might ask if you can schedule a conference or talk with her.

Write a letter or have a conversation with her teacher before school starts or shortly afterward. If she's too busy for a conversation, then email her or write her a letter for her to read at her convenience. Although therapists and teachers read IEPs, these legal documents don't always do the best job of communicating how your child actually functions in the school environment.

Of course, some kids with SPD don't have an IEP because they don't receive services. If you feel your child's sensory issues are interfering with her learning and socializing at school, or if you suspect she has a developmental delay or learning disability, you can request an evaluation. It's a good idea to follow up a phone call with a written request sent by certified mail. Keep a copy of the receipt in a file folder where you can keep all your notes on conversations and challenges your child is having, and be sure to follow up to make sure your request doesn't accidentally fall between the cracks. Outside evaluations you have had done privately have to be considered by the school. However, the school may require their own evaluations, done by professionals of their choosing (for example, the OT for the district who would be providing services).

Because the beginning of the school year is a very busy time, be sure to find out from the school team members what's the best way to communicate with them and when they're available for phone calls or meetings. Make notes and keep them in your folder on your child

Be sure to attend parent orientation, which often happens quite soon after school starts. It's good to not only have a sense of what's expected of your child academically but what that individual teacher's policies are regarding behavior, discipline, snacks, and breaks for the class (such as recess times) and for individual students (to go to the bathroom, to regroup in a quiet place, etc.-these are very important for the child with SPD.) Parent orientation often offers a chance for you to meet the specialty teachers as well, and to learn what's new this year, such as a new approach or policies.

Also, if there's a school handbook of policies, read it. In fact, read it or skim it every year if you can, as something may have changed or you may have overlooked something that you need to discuss with the team given your child's challenges. A "zero tolerance" aggression policy isn't going to work with a poorly regulated child who still regresses to biting or hitting when under extreme stress, for instance. A "no sweet treats" policy may make it difficult to give your child the oral comfort of a juice box to suck from or a chewy, sweetened granola bar. Such policies will have to be discussed with the team so that your child won't have such a difficult time following the rules that she ends up in sensory overload.

Be open minded and positive about your child's experience this year but at the same time, pay attention to warning signs that some policy or procedure may pose a problem. Discuss it with your child if appropriate. Then talk to the teacher. No one wants the school year to start with your child coming home with a long face or detention slip because he wasn't able to conform to the expectations. By getting to know the team and helping them get to know your child, you can help your child to have an easier, more pleasant transition to the new school year.
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copyright (c) 2012 Nancy Peske

Rehabilitation After Tibial Plateau Fractures

The tibial plateau is the flat area of the top of the shin bone, the lower half of the knee joint, which expands up from the shaft of the shin bone. The tibial plateau is a very important weight bearing area and any disruption of this area affects the stability, movement and alignment of the knee. This means that the diagnosis and correct management of this fracture is extremely important if the patient's chances of future knee disability are to be minimised. Older people, typically over fifty years of age, are more frequent sufferers from this fracture, especially in women after the menopause who may have a degree of osteoporosis which makes the plateau more fragile.

In older people the forces involved in the fracture are usually low, such as a fall of some kind, and the fracture is often depressed which means squashed downwards. Younger people suffer more high energy fractures from motor vehicle accidents or being hit by a car as a pedestrian, with split type of fractures. Depressed fractures may require operation to bring the flat plateau surface up the right position with a bone graft and internal fixation to hold them in place. Cast braces are often employed, a brace around the thigh and calf with a knee hinge, with the brace limiting any sideways forces on the knee which might worsen the fracture.

In the cast brace the physiotherapist will assess the patient's ability to contract their quadriceps muscle and work on flexion of the knee which is the main potential limitation after this kind of fracture. The physio will instruct the patient in the correct gait, which is often non weight bearing initially, progressed to partial weight bearing as the surgeon is happy with the healing of the fracture. Many patients are elderly and find non weight bearing only possible for very short distances or transfers whilst using a wheelchair and a frame.

Once the brace is removed the physiotherapist will work on mobility of the patella, strength of the quadriceps and flexion of the knee. Mobilisation techniques can be used to increase the accessory movements of the knee and the physio will encourage hamstring work against resistance such as an exercise band or gently resistance from the other leg. Gradual progress through active ranges of movement towards resisted movements is encouraged, with the physio instructing the patient from partial to full weight bearing and functional work as appropriate.

Mobile Massage Therapy - Massage Reduces Stress, Relaxes and Boosts Immunity

The accumulation of everyday stress

Working long hours at the computer can result in stress, muscle tension, injury or pain which can drain you physically, mentally or emotionally. This can impact negatively on your social life as well as on your work. As the most important benefit of massage is the reduction of stress, general health can be improved and maintained by massage therapy and the negative effects of stress can be alleviated or prevented. On an ongoing basis it can reduce pain, prevent injuries and maintain health. It is an important part of staying healthy physically and mentally as it relieves stress which is responsible for 90% of illness and pain.

Due to reflex effects through the autonomic nervous system, massage affects internal organs and areas removed from the area being treated. It promotes relaxation, reduces pain, boosts mood and mental clarity. Massage can be used for relaxation or stimulation and may be applied to rehabilitation after surgery, injury or poor health. It improves blood and lymph circulation, increases natural killer cells and lymphocytes which destroy cancer cells, boosts mood by increasing serotonin and dopamine and relieves pain by increasing pain killing endorphins. Massage can relax the body, decrease blood pressure and heart rate and reduce stress and depression. It may also provide symptomatic relief for acute and chronic conditions such as headache, facial pain, carpal tunnel syndrome and arthritis. It realigns and rejuvenates, restoring balance to body and being, so you can take in your stride whatever life throws your way. It promotes digestion, joint mobility, muscle relaxation, relief of spasms and cramps.

Bodywork as a medical treatment

Massage therapy is becoming increasingly sophisticated and effective as it moves into new areas such as medical massage which is the fastest growing modality of massage today. Training in massage therapy was an integral part of medical massage and nursing care up to the mid 1950s when it dropped to almost nothing due to the rapid development and almost exclusive use of technology in the twentieth century. Manual therapy was no longer seen as necessary for standard hospital care. Today, however, it is realized that massage in the hospital is necessary to provide a sense of wholeness and care which is absent in the increasing fragmentation of hospitalization due to the growing emphasis on specialization. Medical massage uses the traditional strokes of massage which are then specifically adapted to treat, for instance, cancer patients, hospital patients and pregnant women. Medical massage may be given in the hospital setting, an outpatient clinic or as a mobile therapy where the therapist travels to the patient's home to give the patient a personally tailored treatment protocol.

In massage therapy for the cancer patient, the therapist pays close attention to the side effects of the curative medical treatment to devise an appropriate protocol. Here the therapy is designed around the particular side effects the patient is experiencing such as pain, lymph-oedema, scarring, nausea, stress, tension, insomnia, fatigue, anger, depression and anxiety.

Thus cancer massage is a uniquely designed therapy which complements the curative medical treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. Hence, it requires more extensive knowledge of medical procedures, pathology and side effects than ordinary therapy. Failure to understand this will result in harm to the patient as the therapist will not be able to adapt the therapy to design a competent treatment protocol.

In pregnancy massage the therapist must take into account mainly musculoskeletal issues caused by the weight of the growing uterus altering the centre of gravity of the woman's body. Treatment in this case will focus especially on upper and lower back pain, sacroiliac dysfunction as well as pubic symphysis and lower abdominal pain. The therapist must also be alert to and able to detect acute medical problems such as deep vein thrombosis and preeclampsia which are both potentially fatal if not medically treated.

Bodywork has a broad therapeutic application

The greatest benefit of massage is the reduction of stress and tension. Since a wide range of physical and psychological conditions stem from stress, massage can help alleviate these conditions and therefore has a broad therapeutic application. The most prominent benefit and use of massage is the alleviation of stress which then relieves muscular tension, promotes relaxation and treats lower back, neck and shoulder pain, pregnancy, bedsores, severe burns, iliotibial band syndrome and spinal cord injury as well as ameliorating systemic conditions such as cystic fibrosis, attention deficit disorder (ADD), fibromyalgia, asthma, autism, diabetes, bulimia, eczema, HIV, lymphoedema, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

Sleep disorders, cancer-related fatigue, diabetes, high blood pressure, spinal cord injury, low back pain, lowered immunity, post-operative surgery, infertility, autism, eating disorders, age-related disorders and smoking cessation can all be treated by massage.

Bodywork, such as shiatsu and massage, offers a drug-free, non-invasive and person centred approach based on the body's natural ability to heal itself.

Bodywork in Pregnancy

The great physical, mental and emotional changes of pregnancy affect your lifestyle, your job and your relationships with friends and family. Massage helps you integrate these changes successfully. Massage therapy during pregnancy improves overall health, decreases stress and relieves muscles aches and pains. It addresses the many discomforts associated with the skeletal, muscular and circulation changes brought on by hormone shifts during pregnancy.

Massage alleviates low back, hip and leg pain, oedema, nausea, heartburn and constipation. Regular massage decreases anxiety and lowers stress hormones during pregnancy. Labour is shorter and easier while babies are healthier. There are fewer obstetric and postnatal complications, such as premature birth and low birth weight.

Bodywork for Cancer Patients

Massage for cancer patients is a safe, non-pharmacological treatment without any side effects. It helps reduce anxiety, fatigue, depression, stress, tension, anger, insomnia and improve self-image and quality of life. Massage may reduce pain, muscle tension, nausea, constipation, lymphoedema and scarring.

Massage as a supportive care intervention for children with cancer helps reduce pain, anxiety, depression, constipation and high blood pressure. Massage also strengthens the function of the immune system and reduces nausea and depression during periods of immune suppression following chemotherapy.

Four Reasons Your Practice Needs Physical Therapy Scheduling Software

If your physical therapy practice serves multiple patients, then you've probably already struggled with schedule problems. Some patients fall through the cracks when they don't schedule their next appointment when their daily treatment is completed, while others may miss an appointment because they had the information marked down wrong. And you've probably noticed that on some days, your therapists are overbooked, while on other days they're left with too little, or nothing, to do. It can be frustrating, but the right physical therapy scheduling software can make things easier for everybody. There are several excellent reasons to invest in a program that takes care of the details for you.

Fewer Missed Appointments

Every practice has the occasional missed appointment, but the cost of missed appointments quickly adds up. Every time one of your therapists has a cancellation, he or she is simply sitting around not making any money for your practice or themselves. A good physical therapy scheduling software package will remind you or your front desk employee whenever an appointment reminder needs to be sent out prior to a scheduled session, minimizing missed appointments. You can also use the system to print out appointment reminders for the next session on the spot, before patients leave.

Fewer Lapsed Patients

It can be difficult to keep up with which patients need to be scheduled for a follow-up appointment or additional sessions. With this type of therapy scheduling software, you'll get periodic reminders so that fewer patients "fall off" their schedules. This ensures compliance with their prescribed treatment and results in better patient outcomes. It also means a more reliable income for your PTs and your practice.

Multiple Scheduling Capabilities Of Physical Therapy Scheduling Software

Studies have shown that patients who book two or more appointments at the same time are more likely to keep those appointments. The right program will allow you to schedule appointments several weeks or even months ahead and print out a list of dates to give to your patients, making it easier for all of you.

Improved Documentation And Organization

Most software is either bundled with or part of a physical therapy software program that includes physical therapy documentation templates. These templates are an excellent resource for designing your own forms and ensuring that all patient information is tied together. When you set up a patient's next appointment, her records will automatically be updated and her therapy notes will be made available to her PT. By using standard documentation templates as the jumping off point for your patient records, you'll also ensure that your patient records meet proper documentation guidelines for HIPAA, Medicare and other entities.

There are many quality physical therapy scheduling programs available for businesses of all sizes. When you find one that you feel is a good fit, be sure to ask for a free demonstration so that you and your staff can properly evaluate its performance. After your employees start using it, they'll wonder how your practice ever did without it.

Can a Bachelor Degree in Psychology Lead to Occupational Therapy Jobs?

College students who have an idea of what they would like to do someday often know exactly what major to choose. However, some struggle because they do not know what career path they want when they enter school. Guidance counselors will often direct them to a "neutral" major that can lead to any different careers. One of these is psychology.
 
If you have a bachelor's degree in psychology, could you purse a career in occupational therapy? The answer is yes, but you will need further training and certification.
 
What Is Occupational Therapy?

Occupational therapy is a line of work wherein a therapist helps patients with their everyday tasks. These patients suffer from a disabling condition, such as a developmental delay, physical disability, mental handicap, or emotional problem. This can be something the patient is born with, such as mental retardation, or it could be a result of an accident or the natural aging process.
 
Occupational therapists help patients develop or improve motor skills and reasoning abilities. If some of these functions are lost, the therapist will work with the patient to compensate for this. The end goal is for the patient to be able to live a productive and satisfying life as independently as the disability allows.
 
Because occupational therapists are working with emotionally or developmentally disabled individuals, a degree in psychology can help. The therapist needs to be able to help the patient deal with his or her emotions, learn cognitive skills, and create helps that will make functioning in the day-to-day world more possible. Psychological training helps with all of these tasks.
 
Educational Requirements for Occupational Therapists
 
Occupational therapy is a highly specialized field, and as such therapists must have at least a master's degree in the field. The degree must come from an accredited school, and the program must include at least six months of fieldwork under a supervisor.
 
Students who are interested in this line of work often wonder what undergraduate program to pursue. In high school they should take as many advanced courses as possible, although math is not especially important. Undergraduate degrees can be in fields like biology, sociology, anthropology, general liberal arts, and, of course, psychology. Psychology as a bachelor's degree program provides an excellent base for further study in occupational therapy.
 
Part of the reason that a degree in psychology works so well is the fact that occupational therapists must understand how to work with people. Psychology training provides a good foundation for this. They also must be able to read their patients, even when their patients are not clearly vocalizing their needs or wants. They need to be able to see how different tasks are affecting their patients emotionally and psychologically, and a degree in psychology makes this much easier to do.
 
Licensure Requirements
 
All states require occupational therapists to receive a license. The requirements for licensure are completion of a master's program from an accredited school and the successful completion of the national certification exam. Again, a degree in psychology works well into these requirements. All in all, of the undergraduate degrees that work for this career path, a degree in psychology seems to be one of the best fits.

Physical Therapy Career Advancement Tips

Being a physical therapist has its own perks and benefits. But getting a promotion in this career is very challenging. That is why if you are a physical therapist and you are aiming for a career advancement, you should be aware of how to climb the ladder of success in this field so you will be successful.

Creating An Eye-Catching resume

When looking for a job, the first thing that a hiring manager will ask from you is your resume. That is why it is very important that you create a resume that is clean, informative and enticing. Many people aren't given the chance to be interview because of bad resumes. When you are applying for a position it is vital that you state your objective according to the job position you are applying for. Avoid writing "generic" objectives. One of the common mistakes applicants commit is copying a generic resume online and submitting it to the employer. It's not bad to go online and search for sample resume as a basis in creating your personal resume. However, it is important that you tailor it to the company's objectives as well as to the specific job position that you are applying for.

If you are applying for a promotion, you have to highlight all your accomplishments and contributions to the company. This will make your employer realized how valuable you are to the company. Keep in mind that you are selling your knowledge, talent and service to the company.

Choosing a company that is open for career advancement is one thing that you have to check before you apply for any job. One area of physical therapy where promotion is fast is home care. Creating a development plan and show this to your director. Your physical therapist director will never know that you are aiming for a career advancement if you will not let him see your eagerness. Giving him your career development plan is one of the ways that could make your director be aware of your future career plans. Ask for feedback. Being open-minded is very crucial for anyone to have a career advancement.

Continuing education is the key for a physical therapist's career advancement. There online programs that you can enroll into to save you time and money. if you are too busy to travel back and forth from your workplace to the school, you can enroll in an online program.

Ylang Ylang Essential Oil - Its Healing Benefits and Why You Should Use It

Obtained from the Ylang Ylang tree, this essential oil possesses various properties that make it an important commodity in improving physical and mental health. In aromatherapy, it is regarded as one of the best aromatic and soothing essential oils in existence. Its distinct and sweet scent originates from "Cananga Odorata", the scientific name of the ylang ylang tree. Known as the "flower of flowers" in Malayan, it comes directly from flowers of the tree and passes through a distillation process. Its oil can be used as treatment for relieving pain and to treat infertility and impotence. It can be applied both topically and orally to experience its curative effects.

The Ylang ylang essential oil has various health benefits. For instance, it can be used to treat external skin conditions such as acne, wrinkles and dry skin. It is also an essential component of most hair care products as it promotes hair growth. The oil can also be taken orally to treat internal infections associated with the stomach, intestines, and urinary tract. It is advisable to seek the advice of a medical practitioner before taking any essential oil orally.

Psychologically, Ylang ylang oil can be used to treat nervous conditions such as chronic anxiety, depression and shock. It has a calming effect on the nervous system and can aid in the treatment of various nervous conditions when blended with other essential oils.

A great way to use Ylang ylang essential oil when trying to calm your nerves is in massage therapy. Mixed with carrier oils such as Grape Seed and Wheat Germ oils, it can be massaged directly onto your skin. This may provide the curative effects you are be looking for to "take the edge off", it is this quality that endears it to most massage therapists and their patients.

Ylang ylang oil has great curative properties however, as with anything, unwanted side effects may manifest if not properly administered in controlled doses. It has the potential to trigger headaches, allergic reactions or nausea if taken in heavy abusive doses.

Choosing Online Massage Therapy Continuing Education Courses

A Continuing Education Unit (CEU) is similar to a credit, in that a specific amount must be accrued to meet the requirements for maintaining a certification-just as credits are required for degrees or certificates. A single CEU is made up of ten hours of training. This unit of measurement enables students to maintain accurate records of further instruction undertaken in their field. This is often needed for the purposes of demonstrating to employers, state licensing authorities and various other relevant third parties that they are engaged in an ongoing program of educational development. In the case of massage therapists seeking to maintain and improve both their practical skills and industry credentials, massage therapy continuing education courses are vitally important.

Participation in a massage therapy program of continuing development does not result in an academic qualification, for instance a degree or diploma. Its main purpose is to enable the therapist to keep up to date with the latest findings and treatments as they are released, and maintain their certification and licensing.

Different Types of Courses

Apart from the hands on aspects that massage therapy involves, a continuing education course may provide other relevant benefits, such as business skills, book keeping, methods of marketing, and client profiling. This arsenal of skills is essential in assisting a therapist run a thriving practice with a healthy balance sheet, while at the same making certain that client needs are met.

The Convenience of Online Study

It is possible to attend classes in a formal teaching environment such as at a salon's training academy, or alternatively home and online learning routes are also both available. In this case, the student receives the learning materials for the course by post or email. For obvious reasons, most professional chose to take their CEU courses online. This may seem intriguing as a massage therapy course would be expected to be mainly practical in nature. Don't forget that many procedures can be demonstrated by DVD and online video modules. For the parts of the course that are theoretical in nature, textbooks and online written guides are the main study aids.

Ranging from simple and high level physiology to the process of determining and treating different types of physical conditions, many different massage therapy continuing education courses are available on a variety of topics. The therapist with a specialty in treatments suited to a day spa environment is unlikely to seek further education in an area such as Fibromyalgia. In the same way, someone working in the area of massage for pregnancy may not be interested in training regarding the treatment of HIV patients.

Broadening Horizons

Participation in a well rounded learning program is beneficial for any therapist who does not wish to restrict their massage therapy career opportunities. Being in possession of a wide range of skills improves their chances of advancement within the industry. By being involved in further massage therapy education to broaden their basic range of services, the trainee will be more appealing to new employers and clients alike.

The following are examples of the different types of further education courses in massage therapy that can be taken by students online:

* Thai Massage
* Reflexology
* Sports Massage
* Cranial-Sacral Massage
* Ethical Case Management
* Hot Stone Massage
* Aromatherapy
* Advanced Anatomy and Pathology
* Prenatal Massage fundamentals
* Deep Vein Thrombosis

Many employers don't even consider candidates who do not participate in regular training development. Notwithstanding the appeal of accelerating your career advancement, the individual who invests in ongoing learning will always improve their standing and authority as a respected massage therapist.