Massage therapists held about 168,800 jobs in 2014. About half of massage therapists were self-employed in 2014.
Massage therapists work in an array of settings, such as spas, franchised clinics, physicians' offices, hotels, and fitness centers. Some massage therapists also travel to clients' homes or offices to give a massage. Others work out of their own homes. Many massage therapists, especially those who are self-employed, provide their own table or chair, sheets, pillows, and body lotions or oils.
A massage therapist's working conditions depend heavily on the venue in which the massage is performed and on what the client wants. For example, when giving a massage to help clients relax, massage therapists generally work in dimly lit settings and use candles, incense, and calm, soothing music. In contrast, a massage meant to help rehabilitate a client with an injury may be conducted in a well-lit setting with several other people receiving treatment in the same room.
Injuries and Illnesses
Because giving a massage is physically demanding, massage therapists can injure themselves if they do not use the proper techniques. Repetitive-motion problems and fatigue from standing for extended periods are most common.
Therapists can limit these risks by using good body mechanics, spacing sessions properly, exercising, and, in many cases, receiving a massage themselves regularly.
Work Schedules
About half of massage therapists worked part time in 2014.
Because therapists work by appointment in most cases, their schedules and the number of hours worked each week vary considerably. Moreover, because of the strength and endurance needed to give a massage, many therapists cannot perform massage services 8 hours per day, 5 days per week.
In addition to giving massages, therapists, especially those who are self-employed, may spend time recording clients' notes, marketing, booking clients, washing linens, and conducting other general business tasks.
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