Definition of Massage:
Massage Therapy is the manipulation of soft tissue to promote
general health and well-being and/or to facilitate healing from injury or illness. This is the New york state definition of
Massage Therapy.
A Brief History:
Massage has been used in restoring and promoting health since
the beginning of humanity. Almost all the great ancient cultures used some form of massage for healing. In the early 19th
century, Per Henrick Ling of Sweden developed a system of massage & exercise based upon the anatomy & phsiology of
the human body. This system became known as Swedish Massage. It is still one of the most widely used forms of massage in use
today.
Many physicians recommend
massage for a variety of ailments and injuries. Stress, back pain, arthritis, high blood pressure, and tendonitis are just
a few of the numerous conditions that may be helped by massage. There are a growing number of people who consider massage
therapy part of their regular health regimen. Massage therapy promotes health & feels good too.
Licensing & Credentials:
Massage therapists
must be licensed to practice in New York State. They are required to complete a comprehensive program of classroom instruction
(currently 1000 hours) with courses in anatomy, physiology, pathology, massage techniques, as well as the study of Chinese
medical theory and massage. They are required to take a licensing exam and be registered by the State Education Department.
This is not true of every state. It is always a good idea to check credentials. In New York you can check a therapists credentials
at the NYS Education Department Office of the Professions. To verify a New York State License click on the link below:
