Anatomy, as far as Massage Therapy is concerned, is the same and anatomy and physiology as it is taught in high school and college. This Western approach is has traditionally evolved from the Greek and Roman medical practices. The only exception is if you study Asian bodywork, like Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). They will have a different perspective on the anatomy of the body and how it works. Other Eastern modalities that will have a different perspective are Ayurveda - which focuses on Chakras and the Tridoshas - and Thai Massage. Thai massage will have a very Western view of the anatomy, but a different view on how it sees the functions of the body as related in what they call the Sen Sib lines.
anatomy 1 & 2
There are no specific classes to minor in High School for a career in massage therapy. However, a good base of classes that would be helpful are: Latin, Biology, Chemistry, and Psychology or Social Studies.
Massage therapists need to know the location and function of muscles, their attachments, anatomy of the body, and the many modalities of massage such as Swedish, Reflexology, Shiatsu, etc. It is also helpful for massage therapists to have a basic understanding of interpersonal skills, business, ethics, and professionalism.
If you are going to knead, poke and prod people's muscles, it helps to know what they are, where they go and what they do.
Massage schools typically teach a variety of massage modalities including Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, sports massage, aromatherapy massage, and hot stone massage. Students may also learn specialized techniques like Shiatsu, Thai massage, and reflexology. Some schools may offer additional courses in prenatal massage, oncology massage, or myofascial release.
Absolutely. Dogs as well as other animals, can benefit from massage just as humans can. It is important to find a massagetherapist that knows animal anatomy, as it is a little different from people. Many dogs enjoy a massage, infact the act of patting or rubbing a dog is a form of massage and is an awesome way to bond with the animal.
There are many benefits to seeing a registered massage therapist. The reason for this is that they are trained in anatomy, physiology, pathology, neurology and many other areas that make them good at their jobs.
Contrary to popular belief, a massage therapist needs to be knowledgeable in a variety of subjects: Anatomy and physiology, kinesiology, pathology, assessment, therapeutic applications, history and theory, as well as business and ethics.
You do not have to be nude. And, in fact, it is illegal to be nude during a massage in the US. You may be disrobed, which means having all your cloths off. But, you are covered very professionally with a drape so no private anatomy is exposed.
Depending on what type of massage therapy and where you live, it can vary. This site here will give you a wide selection of options http://www.naturalhealers.com/.
The type of education required to become a regulated massage therapist will vary depending on the local regulations. However, the vast majority of this education will be anatomy based, as it is essential for a massage therapist to have a detailed understanding of musculature and bone, as well as the blood, lymphatic, and nervous systems.
AK is based on principles of functional neurology, anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and biochemistry as well as principles from Chinese medicine, acupuncture, and massage.