Over the last 50 years, massage therapy treatments have gone from luxury escapes for the upper class to being an important part of general health maintenance, and a crucial aspect of recovery from injuries and surgeries.  The list of positive tissue changes facilitated by massage that help in physical recovery, such as decreased muscle spasms, reduction of edema, and improved connective tissue pliability have been well established, and current research also supports the great value of regular massage for its stress-relieving results in our ever-increasing stressed-out and overworked labor force. The National Institute for Occupation Safety and Health reports that more than 40% of U.S. workers say their job is “very or extremely stressful.”

Looking ahead to 2016, we expect a few positive changes in the massage therapy industry:

Massage Therapy Demand

Estimated at around $11 billion in 2013, the massage therapy industry continues to grow and prosper post-recession. The American Massage Therapy Association, the oldest professional massage association in the country, reports that between 2012 and 2013 over 16% of Americans received at least one professional massage treatment session. Furthermore, the expectation of around 20% employment growth in the industry continues to ring true.

Better Collaboration

As insurance companies continue to alter their services and their pricing to accommodate new and changing healthcare laws, we expect better communications and integration of healthcare services provided by physicians, chiropractors, massage therapists, physical therapists, and insurance providers to play a key role in creating better care for patients.

Need for Better Training

With greater interest in the massage therapy profession and greater demand for these services, the need for highly trained, professional massage therapists is paramount to continued growth and prosperity in the industry at large. Through advanced training techniques and hands-on education, DiscoveryPoint School of Massage has helped hundreds of students become experienced, licensed massage therapy practitioners with the tools and knowledge to equip them for a fulfilling and rewarding career.

For more information on how to become a licensed massage practitioner, contact Discovery Point School of Massage in Seattle today.