What is a deep tissue massage?
Deep tissue massage is a type of massage that employs firm pressure and slow strokes to reach deep layers of muscle and fascia, the connective tissue that surrounds the muscles, bones and tendons. It is used to treat a wide range of injuries and conditions, such as chronic pain, muscle tension, joint pain, headaches, back pain, sports injuries, repetitive strain injuries and postural issues. In addition to pain relief, deep tissue massage therapists specialise in improving mobility, reducing stress and reducing inflammation.
Joining one of the professional organisations listed below will help Shepparton's certified deep tissue massage practitioners advance in their careers:
- Massage Association of Australia (MAA)
- Association of Massage Therapists (AMT)
- Australian Natural Therapists Association (ANTA)
- Australian Holistic Healers and Counsellors Association (AHHCA)
- Massage & Myotherapy Association (MMA)
- Myotherapy Association Australia (MAA)
- International Institute for Complementary Therapists (IICT)
Should you study deep tissue massage?
Completing a deep tissue massage course will provide you with the skills and knowledge to not only maintain your personal health and the health of those you care about, but also to forge a career in the lucrative massage industry. Furthermore, it will allow you to cultivate the desirable traits of successful deep tissue massage therapists, such as:
- Good communicators who take the time to listen to their clients' needs and explain the benefits of deep tissue massage; they are also capable of conversing effectively with their team and other healthcare professionals.
- Empathy and compassion for others allow them to determine the best treatment approach for each client's condition.
- Good manual dexterity will enable you to perform various massage techniques effectively.
- Strength and stamina are essential for applying the necessary pressure during a treatment season as well as working for extended periods of time.
- Knowledge of human anatomy and physiology allows you to identify troublesome regions with ease and decide which massage techniques to use.
If you have these qualities and are interested in helping people heal through touch, keep reading to learn about the courses that can help you get started in deep tissue massage.
What are the course and study options for deep tissue massage in Shepparton?
Because deep tissue massage is a form of manual therapy, it is frequently taught in person. However, there are many course providers that offer blended learning, which allows students to study online some days and on campus on others. If you are studying full-time, you can take the full load, or you can take fewer units if you prefer to study part-time.
If you wish to practise deep tissue massage professionally, you should obtain at least a Certificate IV in Massage Therapy. Depending on the mode of study, it can take anywhere from six months to a year to finish.
A diploma qualification is another option that you can take if you want to learn how to use deep tissue massage to treat specific conditions or injuries. Your studies could last anywhere from 12 months to a year and a half.
A bachelor's degree is the highest level of education that can lead to higher-paying positions in the future.
The complete list of deep tissue massage courses in Shepparton can be seen at the top of this page. We strongly advise speaking with a course adviser from your chosen school to learn more about the course you're interested in.
What happens after you complete your deep tissue massage course?
After completing a deep tissue massage course, you will be able to work as a massage therapist in a variety of settings, including hospitals, health clubs, holistic clinics, spas, chiropractic offices and physical therapy clinics, among others.
If you want, you will also be able to start your own private practice. Natural Therapy Pages can help you if you decide to go this route. Adding your massage business to the practitioner listing pages will help you reach out to potential clients as quickly as possible.
As you work towards your career goals, remember to follow your organisation's code of ethics as well as Victoria's statutory codes, which include:
- Working with Children Act 2005
- Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004
- Health Records Act 2001
- Health Complaints Act 2016
- Code of Conduct for General Health Services
And because a career in deep tissue massage therapy can easily branch out into other professions, you may choose to undertake further studies, particularly in the fields of: