Different Types of Massage Therapy Explained

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Over 32 percent of American adults surveyed, received a massage from 2011 to 2016, according to the American Massage Therapy Association. Further, employment of massage therapists is projected to grow 26 percent from 2016 to 2026, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This means there is a large need for massage therapists.

Ready to become a massage therapist? Interested in the different types of massage therapy? There are many different types of massage therapy to choose from and each have their own benefits. The different types of massage include Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, hot stone massage, prenatal massage, reflexology, shiatsu massage, sports massage therapy and Thai massage.

Type #1: Swedish Massage

Swedish massage is the foundation for many types of massage therapy. During a Swedish massage, the massage therapist will perform various massage strokes. The specific massage strokes include effleurage (gliding) strokes, petrissage (kneading) strokes, friction, tapotement (percussive) strokes, and vibration. The Swedish massage techniques can vary by continuity, depth, direction, duration, excursion, intention, pressure, rhythm, sequence, speed, and touch.

Swedish massage movements help warm up the muscle tissue, increase circulation, lengthen muscles, release tension and break up muscle knots. These different movements are combined with joint movement to relax and energize the body.

Type #2: Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage offers deep pressure to release muscle tension. The focus of deep tissue massage is on the surroundings of muscles, bones and joints including the muscle tissue, tendons and fascia. This type of massage is used to improve posture and increase range of motion. Deep tissue massage helps break up scar tissue that forms in muscles from injury, poor posture, inflammation and repetitive motion.

Type #3:  Hot Stone Massage

Hot stone massage is the application of smooth, basalt mineral stones which are heated and combined with oil. This type of massage is designed to relieve muscle stiffness and reduce fatigue while restoring body energy. The hot stones may be placed in many different places on the body. Placement depends on muscles stiffness. Massage therapists may hold the hot stones as they massage the body using long strokes, circular movements, vibration, tapping and kneading.

Hot stone massage helps relieve muscle tension and pain by increasing blood flow to the stiff muscles of the body. Hot stone massage can help reduce spasms and increase flexibility and range of motion. This type of massage can also help reduce stress and anxiety

Type #4 Prenatal Massage

Massage therapy performed during pregnancy can reduce anxiety, decrease symptoms of depression, relieve fatigue, reduce headaches, help control blood pressure, strengthen the immune system and help relax mothers during labor. It can relieve muscle aches and joint pains. It can also improve labor outcomes and newborn health. Prenatal massage is especially beneficial in the second and third trimesters, when the extra weight in the belly of the mother puts a strain on the back.

There are also benefits for the unborn baby. Some diseases and conditions are associated with stress during pregnancy. Maternal stress can be hard on a developing fetus and massage therapy helps reduce stress and anxiety in mothers-to-be, helping the unborn baby.

The father-to-be can also benefit from prenatal massage therapy. Attending a prenatal massage session will give the husband techniques to bring home to better support his pregnant wife. It can also help strengthen the bond between mother, father and baby.

Type #5: Reflexology

Reflexology is a type of massage used to relieve tension, based on a theory that there are reflex points on the hands, feet and ears linked to different parts of the body. Reflexology works by increasing circulation to the corresponding organ or area of the body. Reflexology may also work by stimulating the release of endorphins, a group of feel-good brain chemicals that reduce pain and diminish the negative effects of stress. The benefits of reflexology include decreased anxiety, headache relief, increased circulation, and promotion of healing.

Type #6: Shiatsu Massage

Shiatsu massage is an alternative technique that uses the massage therapists’ thumbs, hands, elbows, knees and feet to focus on the body’s natural acupressure points. This massage pressure helps to improve the body’s energy and balance. Shiatsu massage helps increase energy, improves recovery from injuries and can stimulate the digestive system. This type of massage can also help reduce stress and tension, relief headaches, and improve circulation.

Type #7: Sports Massage Therapy

Sports massage therapy is ideal for the treatment of injuries and preventative treatment. This type of massage can help prepare athletes for an event and reduce recovery time while training. Sports massage therapy deals with the health of muscle and connective tissue. It can also be used for range of motion, tone, symmetry, increased circulation, balance of muscle and quality of posture. The benefits of sports massage therapy include the reduction of muscle tension, promotion of relaxation, reduction of muscle hypertonicity, increased range of motion, decreased muscle stiffness and fatigue after exercise, decreased muscle soreness, reduced swelling, enhanced athletic performance. Sports massage therapy can also help prevent injuries when massage is received regularly.

Type #8: Thai Massage

Thai massage is like assisted yoga and uses stretching and pressure to increase flexibility, relieve muscle tension, restore balance to the body and increase energy. The massage therapist may use their hands, knees, legs and feet to assist clients in different yoga movements to stretch muscles and apply deep muscle compression. The benefits of Thai massage include headache relief, reduction in back pain, muscle pain relief, increased range of motion, and improved circulation.

Interested in learning more about the different types of massage therapy? Ready to become a massage therapist? Upon graduation, Massage Therapy Program students will receive diplomas and be qualified to seek entry-level positions as clinical, medical, or deep tissue massage therapists in wellness clinics and centers, spa environments including resorts and franchises, and self-employment.

Contact us to learn more about how you can become a massage therapist today.

 

The Importance of Medical Terminology and Accuracy

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Although more paper documents are becoming electronic health records, there are instances when a paper document is needed and used, in this digital age. A medical assistant will still need to become familiar with important paper documents and their uses. Some examples include medical history surveys, consent forms, medical charts, letters and memos. The medical assistant is responsible for accurate documentation and maintenance of patient medical records. Without accurate and complete patient medical records, the patient can receive inadequate treatment. Patient medical records include personal information and data, physical and mental conditions, medical history, and current medical care. Patient medical records can serve as a communication tool and as legal documents.

Communication Tool

There are many important uses for patient medical records. They can be used for patient education, to evaluate quality of care and to support medical research.

Patient Education – Patient medical records can be used to educate patients about their condition and the treatment plans created by the physician. By keeping accurate medical records, the patient and physician can follow the trend lines of many vital signs to understand if the patient is following treatment instructions.

Quality of Care – Patient medical records are used to evaluate the quality of care a physician provides. With the help of complete medical records, auditing teams can monitor whether the care and the fees for that care meet the accepted standards. Medical records can also be used to help improve future treatment by making better decisions.

Medical Research – patient medical records are important for researchers to compile information about a medicine or treatment and the outcomes. What side effects did the patient experience? What were the ultimate outcomes? Medical records can also spur new medical research by finding trends in the data that might not have been seen previously.

Legal Guidelines for Patient Medical Records

Patient medical records are important for legal reasons. If the information is not documented, then it can’t be proven that an event or procedure occurred. According to the Federal False Claims Act it is required that patient medical records be kept for 10 years.

All medical procedures, treatment, instructions and care must be documented. Since every entry into the patient medical record is important and legally binding, it must be written clear, accurate, legibly, dated, signed and per HIPAA guidelines. The physician and medical assistant should never include opinions on a medical record. If the medical records are incomplete and illegible than it can be suggested that the level of care the physician provided was also below standard.

The Six C’s of Medical Records

Medical assistants should memorize these terms, six C’s to maintain accurate patient medical records. Client’s Words, Clarity, Completeness, Conciseness, Chronological Order and Confidentiality.

Client’s Words – a medical assistant should always record the patient’s exact words. They shouldn’t rephrase or summarize the sentence. The exact words will help the physician make a more accurate diagnosis.

Clarity – use accepted medical terminology when describing a patient’s condition.

Completeness – fill out all forms completely and provide complete information for any notations made in the medical record.

Conciseness – be brief and to the point. To save time, the medical assistant can use agreed upon terminology and abbreviations.

Chronological Order – the medical assistant must date all entries to document when they were made. This is important for documenting patient care and to resolve any legal questions about the medical services performed.

Confidentiality – all information in patient medical records is confidential and the information should never be discussed unless the medical assistant has the express written consent of the patient. The only exceptions are for medical personal that are performing direct care to the patient.

Complete and Understood Medical Records

It is just as important for medical professionals to understand the medical records as well as being complete. Medical records should be legible, timely and accurate.

Legibility – The use of medical transcription can be important to transfer written notes or dictation to electronic health records. The medical assistant will need to be familiar with standard abbreviations, medical terminology and medical coding. The medical assistant should always date and initial all transcription pages. All transcription should consider the six C’s to be accurate, complete, use proper grammar, correct spelling and accurate recording of abbreviations and medical terminology.

Timeliness – all medical records should be kept up-to-date and available for medical assistants and physicians to use in treatment of the patient. The medical assistant will want to record all exams and test results as soon as they are available. To document phone calls, the medical assistant will record the date and time of the call, the caller’s name and phone number, the information discussed and any results.

Accuracy – the medical assistant will want to check all medical records for accuracy to ensure accurate data and to provide proper care to the patient. The medical assistant should double check the accuracy of the findings and medical instructions recorded in the medical record. Also, they will want to make sure that the latest information has been updated to the medical record, so the physician has the most accurate data to make decisions.

Are you interested in learning more about the importance of medical terminology and accuracy? Gwinnett Colleges & Institute offers medical assisting courses to gain essential skills and training. The core curriculum focuses on the medical assisting skills and training you will need to seek entry-level employment in physicians’ offices, clinics, hospitals, and other medical settings needing the services of associates trained in both front and back office medical assisting skills. These medical assisting courses will be the first step in starting a rewarding career.

Physical Examination Assessment Tools, Instruments and Supplies

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Physical assessments are important for catching disorders and diseases before they affect a patient. A physical assessment should be completed when the patient is healthy, so the physician has a baseline for the patient’s condition. When the patient is sick or suffering from a medical problem, the physician and medical assistant can use the physical assessment tools to check the health of the patient and understand the treatments that are needed to help them recover. During a physical assessment, the medical assistant will assist the physician in the exam room. The medical assistant may check in the patient, escort the patient to the examination room, prepare the patient for the examination, manage the tools, instruments and supplies for the physician, and help the patient after the exam scheduling any follow up appointments.

Physical Assessment Tools, Instruments and Supplies

The physician primarily works with the physical assessment tools; however, the medical assistant must become familiar with their uses to assist the physician during a physical assessment. The medical assistant can also be responsible for disinfecting and sanitizing the instruments and preparing them for the physician before the next physical examination. The physical assessment includes an audioscope, examination light, laryngeal mirror, nasal speculum, otoscope, ophthalmoscope, penlight, percussion hammer, sphygmomanometer, stethoscope, thermometer, and tuning fork.

Audioscope – tool used to screen patients for hearing loss. The audioscope is placed in the patient’s ear and makes a serious of tones which the patient can respond to.

Examination Light – the medical assistant must make sure that all lights in the physical examination room are functioning properly and directed appropriately for the physician to exam the patient’s body.

Laryngeal Mirror – tool used to exam the larynx and other areas of the throat. The laryngeal mirror reflects the inside of the mouth and throat for the physical examination. It may be used to visualize the throat for the application of anesthesia or to remove tissue from the mouth.

Nasal Speculum – tool inserted into the nostril to assist the physician with the visual inspection of the lining of the nose, nasal membranes and septum.

Otoscope – allows the physician to view the ear canal and tympanic membrane.  The otoscope has a magnifying lens, light and cone-shaped insert to examine the inner ear.

Ophthalmoscope – tool used to examine the interior structures of the eye. The ophthalmoscope has a light, magnifying lens and opening for the physician to view the eye.

Penlight – provides additional light for the physician to examine a specific area of the patient’s body. The penlight is typically used to examine the eyes, nose and throat.

Percussion Hammer – tool used to test neurologic reflexes. The head of the instrument is used to test reflexes by striking the tendons of the ankle, knee, wrist and elbow.

Sphygmomanometer – physical examination tool used to measure a patient’s blood pressure. The sphygmomanometer is composed of an inflatable rubber cuff, a bulb that inflates and releases pressure from the cuff, and use of a stethoscope to listen to arterial blood flow in the patient.

Stethoscope – tool used for listening to body sounds including the sounds of the heart, lungs and intestines. It is also used while taking blood pressure.

Thermometer – tool used to measure a patient’s body temperature. The thermometer can be inserted in the mouth under the tongue, under the armpit or into the rectum.

Tuning Fork – tool used to test a patient’s hearing. The physician strikes the prongs causing them to vibrate and produce a humming sound. Then the prongs are placed next to the patient’s skull, near the ear, with the patient describing what they heard. The physician may order additional tests depending on the results of this hearing test.

Physical Assessment Tools & Supplies

Additional Supplies are needed for a general physical examination. They include cotton balls, cotton-tipped applicators, disposable needles, disposable syringes, gauze, dressings and bandages, gloves, paper tissues, specimen containers, and tongue depressors.

Cotton Balls – used to stop bleeding from minor punctures after injections or while drawing a patient’s blood.

Cotton-Tipped Applicators – used to collect or treat a wound and to apply topical medication to the patient during a physical examination.

Disposable Needles – used to inject medicine, anesthetic or other fluids during a physical examination. Also used to extract blood from the patient for laboratory testing.

Disposable Syringes – added to a needle to extract blood or inject fluids during a physical examination.

Gauze, Dressings and Bandages – used to cover up open wounds. Non-sterile pads can be used to cushion, clean or absorb areas that are at less risk of infection.

Gloves – worn by the medical assistant and physician to keep bodily fluids from being absorbed into the skin.

Paper Tissue – helps keep exam chairs, tables and other areas hygienic. The paper tissue is replaced between each examination by the medical assistant.

Specimen Containers – used to hold blood, urine and other bodily fluids during an examination for later laboratory testing.

Tongue Depressors – used to depress the tongue of a patient to examine the mouth and throat during a physical examination.

Are you ready to learn more about how you can assist a physician with patient exams and assessments? Are you interested in becoming a medical assistant? Gwinnett Colleges & Institute offers medical assisting courses to gain essential skills and training in the healthcare field. The core curriculum focuses on the medical assisting skills and training you will need to seek entry-level employment in physicians’ offices, clinics, hospitals, and other medical settings needing the services of associates trained in both front and back office medical assisting skills.

Contact Gwinnett College today to learn more about how you can become a Medical Assistant and start your exciting career in the healthcare field!

 

Geriatrics & Long-Term Care Medical Assistants

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Annually over 8 million people receive support for long-term care, according to the Family Caregiver Alliance. It is estimated that by 2050 there will be 27 million people in need of long-term care in response to the growth in the population of older people. More than half of adults age 65 and older have 3 or more medical problems including heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease and high blood pressure, according to Healthinaging.org.

A medical assistant can choose the specialty of geriatrics. A medical assistant can work at a traditional family practice, in a long-term care facility or with a Geriatrician and their team. They must also understand the common geriatric patient’s medical problems and treat their geriatric patients with respect and dignity.

Respect & Dignity

The medical assistant must respect the geriatric patient and treat them with dignity. They will want to be courteous, polite and kind while interacting with the geriatric patient. The medical assistant will also want to treat the geriatric patient as a human being. They should understand that the geriatric patient wants to be seen, heard, listened to, and treated fairly.

What is Geriatrics?

Geriatrics is the branch of medicine dealing with the health care of the older adult population. Healthcare becomes more complex as one ages, and one may encounter more medical conditions. The specialty of geriatrics focuses on how medical conditions impact one another and how both medical conditions and medications affect someone as they age.

What is Long-Term Care?

Long-term care is a set of services and supports that help geriatric patients with personal care needs. This can include assistance with the basic personal tasks of everyday life including bathing, dressing, using the bathroom, moving around and eating. Long-term care can also include meals, adult day care and transportation services. The medical assistant can work at a long-term care facility performing many administrative duties and supporting staff while caring for patients.

What are the Common Medical Problems for Seniors?

A medical assistant will need to be aware of the common medical problems if they are to work with geriatric patients. Common medical problems for seniors include Alzheimer’s disease, arthritis, cardiovascular disease, dementia, diabetes, general memory loss, high blood pressure and Parkinson’s disease.

Alzheimer’s Disease – a progressive disease that destroys memory, thinking and behavior. The symptoms include memory loss and confusion. Aggression and anger are part of the decline and should not be taken personally. In 2017, tt was estimated that 5.5 million Americans were living with Alzheimer’s dementia, according to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Arthritis – painful inflammation and stiffness of the joints. There are more than 100 different types of arthritis and related conditions, according to the Arthritis Foundation. More than 50 million adults in the U.S. have some type of arthritis. Common symptoms of joint arthritis include swelling, pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion.

Cardiovascular Disease – heart condition that includes diseased blood vessels, structural heart problems and blood clots. It is related to atherosclerosis, which is a condition that develops when plaque builds up in the walls of the arteries. Different types of cardiovascular disease include heart valve problems, arrhythmia, heart attack and stroke. Symptoms include chest pain, tightness, pressure, and discomfort; shortness of breath; pain, numbness, weakness or coldness in the legs or arm; and pain in the neck, jaw, throat, upper abdomen or back. Risk factors of cardiovascular disease include diabetes, obesity, poor diet, physical inactivity and excessive alcohol use. Almost half of Americans have at least one of the risk factors for heart cardiovascular disease, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Dementia – some memory loss and difficulty with thought processes as a result of aging. Typically, as a result of a disease or as a side effect of medication. Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia and accounts for up to 80 percent of all dementia cases, according to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Diabetes (Type 2) – a chronic condition that affects the way the body processes blood sugar. In the early stages of pre-diabetes there may be no symptoms and only a blood test can identify the condition. Symptoms of diabetes include increased thirst, frequent urination, increase appetite, fatigue and blurred vision. In 2015, the percentage of Americans age 65 and older was 25% or 12 million seniors, according to the American Diabetes Association.

General Memory Loss – geriatric patients may experience memory loss and it is important for the medical assistant to build a rapport with them to make sure they take their medication as prescribed. The best way for a medical assistant to convey medical information is by writing down the instructions for later use and have the geriatric patient read back the instructions to the medical assistant. Another way to remind geriatric patients is to provide a calendar of appointments with a list of times, days for treatment and medication.

High Blood Pressure – when the force of the blood pushing against the walls of the blood vessels is consistently too high. High blood pressure usually has no warning signs or symptoms. Risk factors for high blood pressure include smoking, diabetes, obesity, high cholesterol, unhealthy diet and physical inactivity. About 75 million American adults have high blood pressure, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Parkinson’s Disease – a slow, progressive neurologic disorder affecting brain cells that produce the neurotransmitter dopamine. Symptoms include muscle rigidity, abnormally slow voluntary movements, difficult walking, forward-bending posture, monotone voice, drooling, mask face, and small tremors starting in the fingers. Approximately 60,000 Americans are diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease each year, according to the Parkinson’s Foundation.

Enjoy helping others with geriatric care? Interested in becoming a medical assistant and working in a physician’s office, geriatric practice or long-term care facility? Gwinnett Colleges & Institute offers medical assisting courses to gain essential skills and training. The core curriculum focuses on the medical assisting skills and training you will need to seek entry-level employment in physicians’ offices, clinics, hospitals, and other medical settings needing the services of associates trained in both front and back office medical assisting skills. These medical assisting courses will be the first step in starting a rewarding career.

2018 Graduation – Marietta and Sandy Springs only!

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Graduates, families, and friends –

On Saturday, April 21, 2018, the Marietta campus and Sandy Springs campus will be holding a joint graduation ceremony. This ceremony will be for all graduates of these campuses who finished their courses of study in November 2017, December 2017, February 2018, and April 2018.

Graduates – Rehearsal for the ceremony is being held at 9:45am the morning of graduation, so please arrive early!

WHERE:
First United Church of Marietta
56 Whitlock Avenue SW
Marietta, GA 30064
www.mariettafumc.org

WHEN:
Saturday, April 21, 2018
11:00am

CONGRATULATIONS GRADUATES!

Assisting with a Physical Examination and Health Assessment

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Did you know that employment of medical assistants is projected to grow 23 percent from 2018 to 2028, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics? There is a great demand for medical assistants. Part of this exciting career involves preparing patients for physical examinations and health assessments in exam rooms.

Want to help patients stay in good health? Ready to become a medical assistant? The medical assistant will assist the physician with a patient’s physical examination and health assessment by preparing the room, preparing the patient, assisting with the physical examination, knowing the physical examination format, and assisting the patient after the physical examination is complete.

Room Preparation

The medical assistant is responsible for preparing the examination room, making sure the equipment and instruments are disinfected and sanitized, and the supplies are adequately stocked. The examination room should be clean, well lit, ventilated and at a comfortable temperature for the patient. After every physical examination and health assessment the medical assisting should disinfect the room and paper on the surfaces should be removed and replaced. The medical assistant must also make sure that the physical examination instruments are working properly and charged for the next patient examination.

Patient Preparation

Once the room is ready, the medical assistant will escort the patient to the examination room. It is the medical assistants goal to create a low-stress and comfortable atmosphere for patients. The medical assistant will record the patient’s history and check vital signs.

The medical assistant will then ask the patient to disrobe for the physical examination and health assessment and put on the examination gown. Once the patient is fully transitioned to the examination gown, the medical assistant will have the patient sit on the examination table and drape their legs for privacy. The medical assistant will then place the patient’s chart outside the examination room door and notify the physician that the patient is ready for the physical examination and health assessment.

Assisting with the Physical Examination

The medical assistant may assist the physician while performing the physical examination. The medical assistant will be responsible for handing the proper instruments and supplies to the physician. The medical assistant may also help the patient move into the appropriate position while adjusting the drape to expose the right part of the body for the physician to examine the patient.

Physical Examination Format

The physical examination and health assessment begins with the patient on the examination table with a drape sheet over the lap and covering the legs. The physician will examine the patient in an orderly and methodical sequence. First, viewing the patients head and neck. Then, examining the eyes and ears, nose and sinuses, mouth and throat, chest, breasts and abdomen, genitalia and rectum, and legs. Finally checking the patient’s reflexes.

Head and Neck – The patient’s skull, scalp, hair and face are inspected for size, shape and symmetry. The physician will look for any nodules, masses or local trauma. The trachea, lymph nodes and thyroid gland are examined for size and symmetry. Finally, the physician examines the carotid arteries to check for abnormal sounds caused by a blockage.

Eyes and Ears – The physician will inspect the fibrous tissue covering the eye for normal coloring. Then the pupils are inspected with a penlight to view their size and see if they react normally to light. The patient will follow the physician’s finger to examine proper eye movement. The ears are inspected for size, symmetry, lesions and nodules. The physician uses an otoscope to examine the interior of the ear for discoloration and fluids caused by infection. Auditory acuity is tested with the tuning fork or the audioscope.

Nose and Sinuses – the external nose is examined for abnormalities and the interior of the nose is examined using a nasal speculum and penlight. Each nostril is inspected for discharge, lesions or other signs of infection.

Mouth and Throat – the physician inspects the mucous membranes, gums, teeth, tongue, tonsils, and throat. The physician looks for any abnormalities including color, ulcerations and nodules.

Chest, Breasts & Abdomen – the physician looks for any obvious masses or swelling. With the stethoscope, the physician listens for any abnormal sounds in the lungs, heart and apical pulse while the patient takes deep breaths. The breasts of male and female patients will be examined for any abnormalities or masses. Then, the physician examines the abdomen for contour, symmetry and movement from the aorta. The physician will also use the stethoscope to listen to the bowel sounds. Finally, the physician will examine the abdomen organs for enlargement, masses, pain or tenderness.

Genitalia and Rectum – the male genitalia are inspected for lesions, swelling, masses and hair distribution. The scrotum is checked for testicular size, contour and consistency. The anus is inspected for lesions and hemorrhoids. The female genitalia and rectum are inspected for lesions, edema, cysts, discharge and hair distribution.

Legs – the legs are inspected for any abnormalities and the pulse is measured for extremity blood pressure. The legs are also inspected for varicose veins.

Reflexes – the physician uses the percussion hammer to test the patient’s reflexes by striking the biceps, triceps, patellar, Achilles and plantar tendons.

After the Physical Examination

The medical assistant will perform any follow-up treatments and procedures as ordered by the physician (i.e. flu shot administration). They will ask the patient to redress and wait for further instructions. The medical assistant will escort the patient to the front desk where they can schedule any follow-up appointments.

The medical assistant will want to dispose of any disposable supplies and equipment used during the physical examination and health assessment. from the exam room Then, the medical assistant will cover the examination table with clean paper and prepare the room for the next patient.

Ready to learn more about assisting the physician with a physical examination, exam room preparation and health assessment? Interested in becoming a medical assistant? Gwinnett Colleges & Institute offers medical assisting courses to gain essential skills and training. The core curriculum focuses on the medical assisting skills and training you will need to seek entry-level employment in physicians’ offices, clinics, hospitals, and other medical settings needing the services of associates trained in both front and back office medical assisting skills. These medical assisting courses will be the first step in starting a rewarding career.

Atlanta campuses – CLOSED Wednesday, January 17, 2018

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Faculty, Staff, and Students –

As you’re all likely aware, most of the metro-Atlanta area is experiencing inclement weather. Governor Deal has even issued a state of emergency for most of the metro-counties. Due to this, we are closing all Atlanta campuses tomorrow, Wednesday, January 17, 2018.

Students and faculty – We will review schedules for make-up days tomorrow and discuss options on Thursday.

Please note that if you read media coverage of Governor Deal’s state of emergency, people are discussing that a state of emergency allows for schools to not be required to makeup any missed days. We cannot attest to the accuracy of this statement at the primary level. However, in a post-secondary institution separate from the Georgia Board of Education, we are bound by a different set of policies. Makeup classes will be scheduled.

We hope everyone enjoys their day off. Stay warm and stay safe. We look forward to seeing you Thursday.

Massage Therapy Tools of the Trade

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According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of massage therapists is projected to grow 24 percent from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations. Continued growth in the demand for massage services will lead to new openings for massage therapists.

After completing a massage therapy diploma program, graduates may be interested in self-employment. Not only will self-employed massage therapist want to learn proper massage therapy techniques at a vocational college, but they will also want to learn about the tools and accessories that will make their massage therapy customers request repeat appointments. The massage therapy tools include the table and related accessories.

Massage Tables

Almost all of the massage tables that are sold are portable which are designed to fold in half and go with the massage therapist to off location appointments.  Make sure to purchase professional-grade equipment and tools for the clients’ comfort and safety.

The features of the massage table are important. Most massage tables will be configured differently by width, height, length, framing, padding and fabric. The massage table should suit the body of the massage therapist as they will be the ones using and carrying the massage table.

Massage Table Width – The width of the massage table will usually depend on the height of the massage therapist. A shorter massage therapist may want to buy a shorter width massage table as it is easier to carry. Having a wider table may cause the massage therapist to lose leverage as they may need to reach across the client’s body. However, any massage table too small will leave the client’s arms hanging of the sides and make them uncomfortable.

Massage Table Height – All massage tables have an adjustable height range. The optimal height of the massage table is determined by the height of the massage therapist, the type of massage, and the total mass of the client. A massage therapist should be able to touch the top of the massage table with a clinched fist and straight arm.

Massage Table Length – most massage tables are around 72 inches in length to accommodate a client that is over six feet table. For taller clients, the massage therapist can use bolsters under the knees to shorten the length of the client.

Massage Table Frame – most massage tables are made of wood or aluminum. Wood frames tend to be heavier than aluminum frames. An aluminum massage table will make transport easier.

Massage Table Padding – this is the part of the massage table that a client will remember. Selecting the right table padding is important and you must consider the density, thickness and durability of the padding.

  • Density – padding ranges from low, medium to high density. High-density foams typically have more memory. However, the higher density the foam, the heavier the massage table.
  • Thickness – thick padding is best for client comfort. Firm padding will also help the massage therapist regain energy when deep pressure is applied. Some massage tables have a single layer of foam and others multiple layers. The deeper the pressure, the thinner the foam should be to allow the massage therapist to focus on structure and movement. However, most massage therapist use multi-lawyer foam as it is more comfortable for the client.
  • Durability – when it comes to durability the massage therapist will want to consider what type of foam they are using and how many massages they tend to perform.

Massage Table Fabric – the most common fabric for massage tables is vinyl. Vinyl is long lasting and easy to clean. Keep the vinyl clean by wiping it down daily. Make sure to use a protective drape so the client’s body oils don’t come in contact with the vinyl massage table.

Massage Table Accessories

There are massage table tools and accessories that keep the client comfortable and safe. Accessories include the face cradle, arm shelf, side extensions, footrest, bolsters, linens and carrying case.

Face Cradle – The most common accessory is the face cradle that helps the client stay straight while lying prone. The face cradle will add up to 12 inches to the table’s length. The face cradle can be plastic, aluminum or metal. Metal and aluminum are more durable than plastic.

Arm Shelf – provides a place for arms to rest while the client is in the prone position. The different styles of arm shelf include a hinged shelf, a sling and a hanging shelf with adjustable straps.

Side Extensions – provides a place for arms to rest while the client is in the supine position.

Footrest – a padded platform that can increase the length of the massage table by up to 12 inches.

Bolsters – supportive devices that are used behind the neck, ankles and knees to offer the client increased relaxation. Bolsters come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Traditionally, bolsters are used under the ankles in prone position and the knees and neck in supine position.

Linens – the use of sheets, towels, and blankets can increase the comfort of the client and create an easier way to clean the massage table between clients. Massage table linens include a top and bottom sheet for the massage table, bolster covers, face rest cover, pillowcases, and arm shelf cover. For comfort and easy cleaning, many massage therapists use flannel.

Carrying Case – helps protect the fabric on the massage table while in transit. The carrying case also has a padded handle and strap for the massage therapist to easily carry from place to place.

Massage Chairs

A massage chair can be moved easier and takes up less space than a massage table. However, the cost of a massage chair is almost the same price as a massage table. The massage chair should be lightweight and easy to setup or breakdown. It should also be sturdy, so the client feels safe and comfortable.

Interested in learning more about massage therapy tools and how to offer a comfortable experience for your clients? Ready to become a massage therapist? Upon graduation, Massage Therapy Program students will receive diplomas and be qualified to seek entry-level positions as clinical, medical, or deep tissue massage therapists in wellness clinics and centers, spa environments including resorts and franchises, and self-employment.

Contact us to learn more about how you can become a massage therapist today.