Massage Therapists: Learn 5 Secrets to Preventing Injury

Injury Prevention is crucial for lasting career in massage therapy. Staying healthy and injury free happens when you create balance between the mind, body, and spirit. Balance happens when different parts of your life are in proportion to each other. It is important to make an effort and balance your physical self first. Important components of caring for your physical body include correct body mechanics, exercise, proper nutrition, and plenty of rest.

Here are some of my secrets to help you maintain health with your physical body:

1) Use Proper Alignment- When applying pressure during massage, make sure your bones are in alignment to conserve your energy and to reduce muscle overuse and misuse. Keep your body as relaxed as possible, and stay behind each stroke as you lean into the tissue beneath you.

2) Make Time for Physical Activity- Another key to career longevity is getting the proper amount of appropriate physical activity, in addition to performing massage therapy. Exercise increases circulation and delivers more oxygen to your body’s cells, boosts your energy, and reduces your chance of injury.

3) Receive Massage- Massage therapists need to get massage themselves. Take some time out to get a massage; either pay for it or trade with a friend.

4) Educate Yourself- Education and having fun are other ways to care for your mental health. Massage Therapy Continuing Education stimulates the mind, and learning keeps you up-to-date on the latest information.

5) Restoration of Your Body- Sleep and rest are vital for repairing and restoring your body. Your physical body not only re-charges when you sleep and goes into repair mode, so you must get adequate sleep to avoid injury.

As a massage therapist and bodyworker, you can burnout physically, mentally, and emotionally. Practice self-care daily to protect your energy and to promote career longevity. Balance your work with education, play, and social activities to deter burnout.

In addition, think of yourself as a massage athlete and train your body like one. This physical work demands skill, strength, and endurance, just like any other athlete. Performing massage is very strenuous on your hands and upper extremities. At some point in your career, an injury can likely occur. If an injury does happen; take the proper amount of time off to heal when an injury occurs. Injuries do occur, and when you sustain one, do not feel ashamed. Taking time off is invaluable for an injury to heal completely and is essential for the prevention of a chronic condition.