What is Neuromuscular Massage Training?

While eastern therapies concentrate on massage with Asian roots, western therapies, commonly practiced in the United States, feature Swedish massage for relaxation, and deep tissue massage for the relief of pain. If you choose to learn Western therapies, much of your training will focus on neuromuscular massage.

1. You will study the physiology of the nervous system and it’s affects to the body's muscular and skeletal systems. This type of massage addresses the underlying problems behind the pain your patients feel.
2. You will learn neuromuscular massage and other modalities through lectures and demonstrations. You will learn to recognize adhesions in the body structures, restriction of blood flow, and nerve compressions. Instructors will supervise and evaluate your massage techniques, giving you suggestions on how to improve. Finally, you may give massages to paying customers in a practice clinic.
3. Before practicing neuromuscular massage you may have to practice in several times. Each state regulates massage at its own discretion. Some states do not have minimum education standards or licensing laws. The standards of the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) require at least 500 hours of training, which meets most state board exams require that you have some knowledge of neuromuscular massage to pass the exam.
4. Most massage schools teach neuromuscular massage therapy. When selecting a program, look for one that is accredited by the Commission on Massage Therapy Certification (COMTA). Selecting an accredited program is advantageous because it shows the program meets the standards of experts in massage training.

Please also check out our other guide on Neuromuscular Massage Therapy, Portable Massage Tables and Facial Massages.