As the medical community increasingly recognizes its benefits, massage therapy is becoming a mainstay health care component within hospitals. Doctors are now prescribing massage to their patients; according to a recent annual American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) survey, more than half (53 percent) who discussed massage with their health care providers say their doctor recommended they get massage therapy.

In a three-year span, the number of hospital CAM programs has more than doubled. Massage therapy is among the most popular inpatient and outpatient services. Patients and health care providers are using massage therapy for pain management and other health conditions. Hospitals are utilizing massage therapy for special-needs patients as well. As an important component of patient care, massage has been shown to reduce blood pressure and heart rate while increasing endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers.

As more hospitals and patients recognize the value of massage therapy, massage therapists are entering the hospital setting in increasing numbers. Along with expanded career potential, licensed massage therapists discover opportunities to expand their skills within their chosen profession. “These numbers clearly demonstrate that a greater number of people and medical professionals are recognizing that massage is more than a means for pampering or relaxation,” says Brenda L. Griffith, AMTA president.

For those considering becoming a licensed massage therapist these findings are encouraging, offering career path options to work in hospital settings with promising futures. Hospitals that traditionally have been structured into restricted health care fields are now expanding into new hospital staff career opportunities for massage therapists. With studies being conducted that present evidence of massage in helping cancer patients and others with debilitating illness, hospitals are increasing the number of massage therapy staff positions.

Acupuncture & Massage College’s Massage Therapy program trains some of Miami’s most qualified massage professionals. AMC offers body therapy classes in Shiatsu, Swedish and medical massage. For more information about the program or to schedule a campus tour, contact Joe Calareso at (305) 595-9500.