Massage Therapy Journal Winter 2024

Winter 2024 • 23

applications of massage for clients wishing to reduce pain or improve their range of motion,” says Steve Albertson, LMT. “Prior to becoming a massage therapist, I worked as a fire department paramedic, a medical product researcher and a technical specialist for two different engineering schools. I have always embraced creative problem solving, knowledge of the human body and the ability to positively impact the lives of others. Focusing on clinical applications of massage allowed me to draw on the expertise I had developed from those previous positions.” Finding Your Niche: What Are Some Areas of Possible Specialization? There is no shortage of areas to specialize in within the massage therapy profession. Some of the more common practices that may be ripe for specialization are discussed here: Thai Massage Thai massage, also known as Nuad Bo-Rarn, is an ancient practice that originated in Thailand and is traditionally performed on a mat on the floor with the client dressed in comfortable clothing. This type of massage therapy is considered a combination of acupressure, passive stretching and rhythmic compressions that focuses on promoting overall well-being and balance in the body. Once considered a more unique modality, Thai massage has become fairly mainstream and widely accepted. This increased awareness has led more massage therapists to pursue continuing education in Thai massage. “Practiced properly, Thai massage is said to be equally beneficial for the giver and receiver,” explains Jill Burynski, president and founder of Living Sabai School of Thai Massage. “Massage therapy can be a physically strenuous occupation. Many massage therapists exit the profession earlier than they had hoped because of repetitive stress injuries and wear and tear on their bodies.” Due to its ergonomic body mechanics that are reminiscent of martial arts—as well as the use of gravity and leverage rather than force—Thai massage can help prevent the repetitive stress

Photo courtesy of Jill Burynsk

Thai massage: great for veteran massage practitioners who are looking for techniques that are easier on their bodies and may help extend their career longevity.

injuries and physical burnout that are all too common among massage therapists. Thai massage work also incorporates many hand-saving tools, such as Tok Sen, Herbal Compress and Pa Kao Mah sarongs. Who might be interested? For veteran massage practitioners who are looking for techniques that are easier on their bodies and may help extend their career longevity, Thai massage may be a great specialization. Professional Sports Massage Sports leagues are multibillion dollar organizations with multimillion dollar athletes. For the health of the team (and individual athletes) and success of the season, finding ways to keep physical and mental well-being a top priority is becoming increasingly more important to professional sports leagues. Today, professional sports teams spare no expense on their training and recovery facilities and offerings to keep their athletes performing

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