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Course Descriptions

Anatomy and Physiology | Aromatherapy | Asian Modalities | Business & Law | Charting | Clinical Internship | Clinical Preparation | Contraindications and Pathology | Hydrotherapy & Spa Services | Hygiene | Medical Massage | On-Site Chair Massage | Pain Management | Palpatory Anatomy, Physiology & Kinesiology | Prenatal & Infant Massage | Professionalism & Ethics | Reflexology | Self-Care | Sports Massage | Swedish Technique | Lymph Drainage| Geriatric Massage


Anatomy and Physiology

This course provides a detailed study of the structure and function of the human body and all of the organ systems. Particular attention to the musculoskeletal, nervous and circulatory systems enhances students' awareness of how massage therapy affects the body. (123 hrs.)

Swedish Technique

This course helps students develop a mastery of Swedish technique, which is the basis for many different massage modalities. This class includes the study of professional touch, application of relaxing massage strokes, proper usage of body mechanics and greater awareness of the self through touch. (105 hrs.)

Clinical Internship

Students work on the general public under the supervision of an instructor or LMT at our professional clinic setting in suite 340. This experience trains students to maintain professional ethics and build confidence while developing their unique style of massage application. Practical evaluations by massage therapy instructors are also required for competency of hands-on skill levels. (50 hrs.)

Contraindications and Pathology

Students gain a better understanding of the causes of diseases and disorders and how they affect the human body. This course helps students learn which massage modalities may or may not be beneficial for an array of pathologies. (42 hrs.)

Hydrotherapy & Spa Services

This course covers the use of water, light, heat and mechanical devices in different massage therapy techniques. Applications of hot and cold packs, paraffin baths, facial treatments and many other spa services are covered. A class trip to Hot Springs to study the history of hydrotherapy in Arkansas may also be included in the course. (27 hrs.)

Hygiene

The preservation of health and prevention of disease with regard to proper sanitation is emphasized in relation to the massage setting. (27 hrs.)

Business & Law

A complete overview of business procedures, law, legal and ethical practices help students understand massage therapy's professional standards and principles. Occupational marketing and keen business planning assist students in becoming the most successful therapists possible. (24 hrs.)

Pain Management

This course covers an introduction into a wide variety of massage techniques used in the clinical pain management setting. Advanced kinesiology assessment skills along with practical applications of various rehab routines, specific soft tissue and myofacial release techniques along with neuromuscular and trigger point therapy are all introduced. Active-isolated stretching and orthopedic massage provide students with the basic skill level to assist in the prevention and reduction of repetitive motion injuries. (12 hrs.)

Palpatory Anatomy, Physiology & Kinesiology

With increased palpation skills of the musculoskeletal system, students better understand applications of massage therapy. Muscle origins, insertions and actions are extensively studied through hands-on assessment. (15 hrs.)

Reflexology

The science and study of the reflexes with special emphasis on the hands and feet provide students with a base knowledge of this ancient art. This technique is demonstrated as a natural tool in the reduction of stress and pain while balancing the body's energy flow. Students learn how to correctly connect the body's organ systems through reflex pressure point manipulation. (6 hrs.)

Asian Modalities

The basic concepts of energy work are taught, which may include Shiatsu, Reiki, Polarity Therapy and Therapeutic Touch. An introduction to the human energy field teaches students to increase self-awareness and personal development through body/mind connections. (6 hrs.)

Medical Massage

The gentle touch and individualized approach to patients who have specific medical challenges are demonstrated and discussed in relation to the scope of practice for massage. A medically trained massage therapist will incorporate therapeutic techniques used on cancer and hospitalized patients. (9 hrs.)

Professionalism & Ethics

Personal and professional boundaries teach students to honor ethical and moral conduct in relation to massage therapy. Examples of case scenarios with proper demeanor and appropriate choices assist students in learning how to handle challenges that may occur in the massage setting. (8 hrs.)

Sports Massage

This course includes pre- and post-event preparation with prevention and maintenance massage applications for athletic performances. Students periodically will have the opportunity to work on athletes in charitable community events. (9 hrs.)

Aromatherapy

The study of aromatherapy in conjunction with massage application enhances students' understanding of the natural healing properties in essential oils. Individual oils are grouped according to the botanical families, chemistry, health benefits and fragrance motto. (6 hrs.)

Charting

Based on the SOAP model of medical record keeping, students learn effective and appropriate interviewing skills while demonstrating informative and concise documentation. (3 hrs.)

Clinical Preparation

This class is designed to prepare students for the clinical experience. The focus is on demonstration of professional and business-like skills in communication, appearance, demeanor and massage presentation. (3 hrs.)

On-Site Chair Massage

A Shiatsu-style chair massage is taught for the corporate setting. This course introduces students to a practical and resourceful marketing practice of chair massage for business development. (9 hrs.)

Prenatal & Infant Massage

Prenatal massage explores the benefits and challenges of massage therapy for expectant mothers. Proper positioning and techniques for reduction of stress and strain on the body during pregnancy are the focal point. Introduction to infant massage and positive contact with a newborn help students understand the basic survival need for a nurturing touch while enhancing the bonding experience for mother and child. (6 hrs.)

Self-Care

Goal setting, body mechanics, relaxation techniques, nutrition and exercise are all important components in maintaining a healthy life. These concepts encourage students to practice healthy habits while enhancing self-awareness and preserving longevity in the field of massage. (3 hrs.)

Lymph Drainage

Manual lymphatic drainage is a form of massage therapy in which the practitioner tries to manipulate lymph flow. The student will learn the proper flow of lymph as well as the gentle and rhythmic pumping technique used. (6 hrs.)

Geriatric Massage

This class provides the student with a concise overview of the effects of aging on the physiology and anatomy of the body. The sociological and psychological effects of aging and how to deal with specific age related health problems. (3 hrs.)

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