
Module 3 – Massage Therapy
To ensure that students have acquired sufficient and relevant knowledge of the theory and practice of massage therapy, to enable them to work with the public effectively and safely, and remaining within the scope of their professional practice.
Guided Learning Hours: 33
Self Study Hours: 50
Learning Outcomes
1. Background to Massage
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Understand the historical and cultural origins of massage.
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Explore the development of various massage techniques across different cultures.
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Gain knowledge about the key principles and philosophies behind massage therapy.
2. Research and Massage
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Learn how to evaluate scientific research related to massage therapy.
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Understand the evidence-based benefits of massage from recent studies.
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Develop skills in integrating research into clinical massage practice.
3. Benefits and Contraindications of Massage
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Identify the physical, mental, and emotional benefits of massage.
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Understand when massage is beneficial and when it should be avoided.
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Learn to assess clients for potential contraindications before treatment.
4. Classifications of Massage Movements
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Familiarize yourself with the types of massage strokes (e.g., effleurage, petrissage, friction, tapotement, and vibration).
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Understand the purposes and effects of each movement on the body.
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Learn how to apply the appropriate techniques based on the client’s needs.
5. Massage Media
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Gain knowledge of the different types of massage media (oils, lotions, creams) and their specific uses.
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Learn how to choose the right medium for different types of massages and skin types.
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Understand the properties of various oils, including their therapeutic benefits in aromatherapy.
6. Presentation and Preparation
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Learn the importance of preparing the environment for a massage session.
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Understand the steps in presenting oneself professionally as a massage therapist.
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Focus on hygiene, attire, and the setup of the massage space to ensure client comfort and safety.
7. Consultation and Treatment Planning
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Develop skills in conducting thorough client consultations to understand their needs.
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Learn how to design personalized treatment plans based on the client's health history, preferences, and treatment goals.
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Understand the importance of documenting client progress and adapting treatments as needed.
*Guided Learning Hours (GLH): include an estimate of the time allocated to contact hours with the tutor, this could be in the classroom, via zoom or other means of structured learning time i.e., directed assignments, assessments or other means of supportive individual study and practice. For each contact teaching hour, 1 to 3 hours are added for self-study hours.
*Self-Study Hours (SSH): includes the hours a learner independently studies which include revision, portfolio, research, web search, reflective practice, projects, case studies etc.