Massage Therapist

A session typically starts with a verbal intake covering current pain, injuries, medications, and conditions like pregnancy or recent surgery that would contraindicate certain techniques or pressure levels, since therapists must screen for issues such as blood clots or unhealed fractures before beginning hands-on work.

Therapists then palpate muscles to locate areas of tension, knots, or restricted movement, and select techniques accordingly: long gliding strokes and kneading for Swedish relaxation work, sustained deep pressure and cross-fiber friction for chronic tension patterns, myofascial release for connective-tissue restrictions, or targeted compression on trigger points that refer pain to other areas of the body.

Sports massage therapists work with athletes before and after competition to address overused muscle groups and speed recovery, while oncology-trained therapists modify pressure and positioning for patients with fragile skin or lymphedema. Therapists follow strict draping protocols to keep clients covered and comfortable throughout the session, maintain clean linens and sanitized equipment between clients, and keep notes on what techniques worked for repeat clients. Many therapists in private practice also handle their own scheduling, billing, and marketing.

State licensure requires completing an accredited program of 500 to 1,000 hours and passing a board exam.