The Massage Therapy program consists of an introduction to bodywork providing instruction in basic anatomy and physiology of the human body, instruction in Swedish and other types of massage including reflexology, in-office massage, deep tissue massage and oscillation therapy. This program was designed specifically to prepare the student for city and country licensing requirements within the State of California and for entry-level positions in clinics, health clubs and beauty salons.

♦ Therapeutic Terminology

The terminology used in massage and body therapy is covered.

♦ Anatomy & Physiology

This class presents a study of human anatomy and physiology as appropriate to massage therapists and bodyworkers. All body systems, including cells, tissues, the integumentary, musculoskeletal, and nervous systems are covered.

♦ Theory and Practice of Massage

The theory behind the effectiveness of massage therapy is discussed. Students learn the techniques and procedures for massage therapy and other body conditioning treatments for hygienic or remedial purposes. Massaging the body using a variety of established techniques for health purposes. Giving direction of a medical practitioner, giving instruction for activities such as reducing or remedial exercises. Entry-level employment may also be available as a physical or corrective therapist assistant

♦ Kinesiology: Upper Body

The Kinesiology classes focus on skeletal-muscular movement. In this class, students learn to identify the origins and insertions of skeletal muscles of the upper body and the postural expressions they produce. Students learn neuromuscular techniques to palpate the muscles and relieve chronic tension in the upper body.

♦ Kinesiology: Lower

The Kinesiology classes focus on skeletal-muscular movement. In this class, students learn to identify the origins and insertions of muscles of the lower body and the corresponding postures they produce. Students also learn the physiology and neurology of muscle tissue, plus movement and practice neuromuscular techniques to palpate the muscles and relieve chronic tension in the lower body.

♦ Pathology

Class content focuses on disorders and diseases commonly encountered by massage therapists and bodyworkers. Students learn the symptoms of the pathologies, as well as the indications and contraindications for massage and bodywork. Standard precautions and the need to ensure client and therapist safety and well being are also covered.

♦ Business & Ethics

This class introduces students to the business of massage and the ethical issues facing the profession. Various employment options for massage therapists and bodyworkers are presented. Students learn how to best present themselves for employment, and how to develop basic promotional materials. Topics also include ethics, success strategies, standards of practice, and tax and record keeping principles.

♦ Deep-tissue Therapy

Working with the layers of muscle and connective tissue, this technique helps facilitate structural release and balance, relieves tension and holding patterns, and brings greater awareness to the somato-emotional relationship of the body.

♦ Sports Massage

Sports massage uses a variety of techniques to help athletes maximize their physical potential. Pre-event massage used to aid flexibility and prepare the muscles for exertion, and post-event massage is used to decrease the build up of lactic acid that can cause sore, inflexible muscles. Also, maintenance techniques are used during training to help athletes remain flexible and help prevent injury and speed recovery should an injury occur.