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637 Hour Program

Deep Muscle Program

Orthopedic Neuromuscular Therapy

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637 Hour Massage Therapy Program

The 637 hour Massage Therapy Diploma Program is designed for the serious massage therapy student who seeks to develop him or herself in a program of education complete with nine more modalities of massage in addition to basic bodywork training. This program is designed to fit the needs of students looking to enter the occupation of massage in a wide variety of settings, including spas, salons, resorts, athletic areas, wellness centers, medical massage, and more. This well-rounded program will also prepare students to take the National Certification Exam.

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Deep Muscle Massage Program (130 hours) may be taken as a stand alone program and is included in the 637 hour Massage Therapy Program.

Deep Muscle Massage (104 clock hours)

The student will learn a wonderful Deep Muscle Massage technique. Additionally, the student will be taught the effects of postural distortion and dysfunctional biomechanics.  A thorough understanding of how the body gets into pain and then out of it will be covered, so the student may communicate this to his/her clients as well as to medical professionals.  All stages of client rehabilitation will be covered.  The student will also learn the basic anatomy and kinesiology of the muscles, bones, anatomical directions, and anatomical movements.  The student will learn to work the muscles of the body, using crème or oil, while applying elements of Shiatsu, Swedish massage and Polarity.  Stretching is learned for each area of the body using the Aaron Mattes system of active isolated stretching.  All of these techniques are then combined to provide a relaxing and invigorating massage.

Holistic principles, the body/mind connection, grounding meditations, the pros and cons of different work settings, pricing, marketing strategies, record keeping, business ethics, atmosphere, and all aspects of setting up and operating a massage business will be taught following the format in Business Mastery, a manual designed for wellness practitioners.  The student will be taught the appropriate use of medical terminology in order to effectively relate his/her knowledge to other health care practitioners, as well as how to relate theoretical knowledge to clientele in laymen’s terms.  A major focus is on body mechanics, so that the student may learn to use his or her body most efficiently. Other subjects include benefits of massage, contraindications and precautions (ie: for pregnant women, recent injuries, high blood pressure, and other conditions), and nutrition and pathology.

During the final two weeks, the student will administer a supervised massage in its entirety.  Clear notes are provided in binders, containing all theoretical knowledge and step by step guidance on how to do the routines.  A certificate of completion is received upon completion of 130 hours.

Course Objectives:  Upon successful completion, the student will be able to administer a relaxing massage in a professional manner.  The student will have a holistic context in which to perform massage. The student will be able to assist their clients with stretching that can be given to their clients as homework to help maintain their clients pain free in-between sessions. Students will also be able to do these stretches for their own self-maintenance. The student will have a basic understanding of Anatomy and Kinesiology and a thorough understanding of pain mechanisms and how massage works scientifically to relieve pain.  The student will have sufficient business skills to set up and operate a business or to work for someone else, including in a hospital setting.

CLINIC (46 Hours)

Ten hours (3 weeks) of clinic are required for students who are in the Deep Muscle Massage Program. All 46 hours are required for those in the 637 hour Massage Therapy Program.

Prerequisite:  Completion of Deep Muscle Massage. 

The student works at the school under supervision on clients provided by the school.  Sessions last 1 1/4 hours, including one hour with the client, 15 minutes to do intake form and / or review client history, to write up session notes, and to review your evaluation from your client. A Deep Muscle Massage Program student will complete an introduction class plus 5 clinic sessions in 3 weeks. A Massage Therapy Program student needs to complete an introductory class plus 29 clinic sessions done over 15 weeks (2 clients a week) for graduation.  These sessions are a great way to gain self-confidence and the experience that employers are looking for and also to gain new clients, since you may give out your business cards.

Course Objectives: Students will fine tune their massage skills through client and instructor feedback. Students will learn to manage their session time more effectively, working within a 50-55 minute time frame. Students will gain experience individualizing their massage with real life clients .

ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY: LEVEL I (52.5 hours)

Prerequisite: Completion of ten weeks of Deep Muscle Massage or previous training in anatomy.

During this course students will study the major physiological systems of the body in preparation for the National Certification Exam.  The systems studied include Cell & Tissues, Skeletal, Muscular, Integumentary, Digestive, Respiratory, Cardiovascular, Lymphatic, Excretory, Nervous, Reproductive and Endocrine.  There will be a major focus on how these systems interrelate and are potentially affected through massage.  Dysfunction and Pathology

within these systems and common ailments as they relate to massage will be studied.  Medical terminology, including prefixes, suffixes, and root words are studied. The first five weeks of this course explore anatomy and kinesiology of the major muscle groups within the body, building upon what was learned in Deep Muscle Massage.  Lab time will be spent identifying major landmarks, i.e. bony prominences and the attachments of superficial and mid-level muscles.

This course will better prepare students to understand day-to-day situations presented by their clientele.  Knowing the correct medical terminology taught in this course, students will also be able to more accurately communicate with their clients, physicians, chiropractors, allied health professionals and insurance companies as well as conduct themselves with greater assurance and professionalism.  Knowledge in Anatomy and Physiology is a prerequisite for training in many advanced bodywork modalities including Sports Massage and Orthopedic Neuromuscular Therapy. Holistic health concepts will be incorporated throughout this class.

ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY: LEVEL II  (52.5 hours)

Prerequisite:  Completion of Anatomy and Physiology: Level I, or OT or PT background

Kinesiology and many pathologies within the neuro-muscular and musculo-skeletal systems will be studied, e.g. scoliosis and its effect on viscera and its corresponding muscular patterns, postural distortion, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Periformis Syndrome, frozen shoulders, occupational related injuries, and many others.  This course will thoroughly cover trigger point referral patterns as well.  Further time will be spent on palpation.  This course is invaluable for those who are choosing to take the National Certification Exam. Holistic health concepts will be incorporated throughout this class. Students will have the option of building all the muscles of the body with clay on full scale models of the Maniken® II under the direction of the instructor, yielding a 3-D perspective and a kinesthetic learning experience.

SPORTS MASSAGE:  American/European  (48.5 hours)

Prerequisite:  Completion of Anatomy & Physiology:  Level I and Deep Muscle Massage, or any basic bodywork training.

The student will learn two styles of giving a full body Sports Massage. One has its roots in Rich Phaigh’s technique and the other is the Eastern European technique.  Muscle physiology, sports nutrition and supplements to facilitate high performance will be discussed.  The main focus will be on sports maintenance massage, myofascial and cross fiber strokes.  Strain / counterstrain will also be introduced.  The student will learn how to encourage an athlete towards total wellness.  A certificate of completion is received.

Course Objectives:  Students will be able to test and assess muscle/skeletal imbalances in order to prevent occurrence and reoccurrence of injuries.  Students will be able to perform sports maintenance massage that focuses on chronic soft tissue trigger points, adhesions, spasms, and trouble spots.

SPORTS MASSAGE:  Russian/American  (45.5 hours)

Prerequisite:  Completion of Anatomy & Physiology:  Level I and Deep Muscle Massage, or any basic bodywork training.

The student will learn two styles of giving a full body Sports Massage, one derived from Benny Vaughn’s technique and the other is Russian Sports Massage.  The main focus will be on pre- and post-event massage,  compressive strokes and stretches, and strain / counterstrain.  Additionally, the student will learn to recognize and explain the three phases of soft tissue repair. Safe usage of hydrotherapy (hot and cold packs) and hydrotherapy principles are taught and evaluated in a class lab. Also covered are gait pattern correction and the use of aromatherapy essential oils to mix into massage oils to relieve pain and facilitate high performance.  On completion the student will be able to treat hypertonicity of muscles associated with sports injuries and athletic performance.  A certificate of completion is received.

Course Objectives:  Students will be able to perform a pre and post competition and inter-event massage.  Students will be able to identify sports specific soreness patterns for running, cycling, swimming, and racket sports.  By working with the physiological systems of the body, the therapist will learn to work smarter not harder.

CPR and AED (4 Hours)

This CPR and Heartsaver AED (Automatic External Defibrillator) course teaches the basic techniques of adult, child and infant CPR and how to use an AED. Students also learn about the barrier devices in CPR and giving first aid for choking. The course teaches how to recognize the signs of four major emergencies: heart attack, stroke, cardiac arrest, and foreign body airway obstruction. Course completion requirements include passing both a written quiz and practical. Students who meet all requirements will receive a CPR certificate card from the American Heart Association.

CLIENT COMMUNICATION SKILLS (7 Hours)

This course examines the dynamics of communications and the various factors that can enhance or limit effective communication.  The participant will receive insight on recognizing various styles of learning and communication (auditory, visual, and kinesthetic) so they can have better rapport and understanding in their relationships with their clients. Participants will discover what their own main learning style is. Students will participate in various exercises, including listening, speaking, observation, using vocal tones, interviewing clients, and body language exercises. The importance of good communication is emphasized in all aspects of a therapeutic practice, from promotional and marketing strategies to obtaining better client satisfaction.   Effective communication is critical in developing a successful practice to attract new clients and establish interpersonal relationships that will result in satisfied customers that will refer additional clients. A certificate of completion is received.

Course Objectives:  Students will feel more equipped to talk to their clients, giving and receiving information in such a way as to create an atmosphere of understanding and honesty in client sessions.  Students will be able to get more active feedback from their clients, which will enhance the therapeutic value of their treatments.

SHIATSU (79 hours)

Shiatsu is a strong healing modality and relaxing oriental therapy employing foot, palm, and finger pressure on up to 365 body areas and points (tsubo).  Stimulation to these tsubo opens the body’s “chi” energy flow (invigorates).  Emphasis is on setsu shin (touch diagnosis), learning the fourteen major meridians, and the most commonly used points. Thai massage, Amna, Tuina, and some chi nei tsang are incorporated into this course. Oriental diagnosis using setsu shin, the five element theory, the six healing sounds for the organs, and Bo (mu alarm points)and Yu (shu) points; source points, contraindications, use of hara, use of the feet, range of motion, tonification, and sedation are learned.  Techniques are given for prone and supine positions.  Many specific techniques are given for conditions such as low back pain and sciatica.  Although this course is a beginner level course, the student will graduate with a higher level than beginner level of understanding and accuracy due to the amount of information given and the way in which the techniques are presented. Chi self massage, Maka Ho, and Qigong are taught as self maintenance exercises. Please bring a quilt, mat, or blanket to lie on.  A certificate of completion is received.

Course Objectives:  The student will gain a larger perspective and framework from which they can view bodywork and healing.  The student will be able to apply Eastern principles into their regular massages, thereby contacting their clients in a deeper way and increasing the effectiveness of the bodywork.  The student will be able to use shiatsu as a healing modality in and of itself.

MERIDIAN DYNAMICS (32 hours)

Students will be introduced to the principles of the Five Element Theory and the concepts of oriental diagnosis. This course includes aspects of chi nei tsang and nerve touch Thai massage. Students will tap into their intuition and watch how organic energy moves in the body. Each meridian will be explored as it relates to the Five Element Theory. Students will learn the location of the meridians, specific acupressure points, shake and release techniques, and meridian stretches. Students will gain experience learning techniques for seated, side lying, prone, and supine positions. Students will learn to work on the floor (traditional way) and on a table. Students will do yoga, Qigong, Dao-in exercises, Inner smile meditations, and microcosmic orbit meditations so that the student can create his/her own self care practice. Please bring a mat, quilt, or blanket to lie on. A certificate of completion is received.

Course Objectives: This course can be taken in conjunction with the Shiatsu course or as a stand alone course. Each course strengthens and furthers the information given in the other course.

PRACTICE PROCEDURES AND POLICIES (30 Hours)

This course teaches professional office procedures and etiquette, either working for someone else or for yourself. Advertising do's and don'ts, resume writing, interview skills, employment agreements, and legal contracts will be covered. Legal concepts (including lawsuit protection and current insurance laws as they relate to massage), SOAP notes (client session documentation), and ways to run your office more efficiently will be covered. This course has just been increased in hours so additional topics are upcoming. A certificate of completion is received.

PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE CONCEPTS  (16 hours)

Prerequisite: Deep Muscle Massage

All aspects of building and maintaining a successful practice in Massage Therapy are covered.  Topics include setting up a practice, managing a practice, marketing strategies, insurance tips, federal tax information, risk management, and goal development.  This seminar is excellent for both new and experienced therapists.  A certificate of completion is received. 

Course Objectives:  The student will prepare a marketing plan and define their personal business goals and objectives.  The student will feel comfortable setting up their own business or working for someone else.

SCENTSATIONAL AROMATHERAPY  (16 hours)

Day one will cover the history of Aromatherapy, definition of essential oils and extraction methods, Aromatherapy pathways, physiology of the sense of smell, respiration and skin absorption, use of essential oils, carrier oils, diffusion methods and equipment as well as general precautions and safety.  Day two will include specific properties of ten essential oils, use of diffusion equipment, distinguishing quality oils, gas chromatography, and chemical compounds of selected oils.  Participants will receive guidance with formulating their own personalized blends in body oils and body mists!  A certificate of completion is received.  Please call the Institute for additional literature.

Course Objectives:  Students will be able to understand the basics of Aromatherapy, including the chemistry and botanical components of essential oils, the physiology of smell, specific properties of the most common essential oils including precautions and safety.  Students will feel comfortable incorporating Aromatherapy both into their massage therapy environment and in creating intuitive and standard massage oil blends.

REFLEXOLOGY (17 hours)

Reflexology is a science that deals with the principle that there are reflexes in the feet and hands relative to every organ and all parts of the body. Stimulating these reflexes properly can release energetic blockages which can be contributing to health problems. Students will gain much hands on experience doing the "thumb walk" and "pinch and twist" techniques to access the reflex points in the feet and hands in a nurturing way. Students will learn the history of reflexology and the different anatomy systems, their basic functions and positions on the feet and hands. Students will work with some of the finer reflex points often ignored by many reflexology books. Detailed foot and hand charts are given to the student. A certification of completion is received.

For those who wish to continue on with this very effective modality, this course is the first part of a Reflexology Basic Certification Program (125 hours), a Reflexology Intensive Certification Program (270 hours), and a Reflexology Clinical Program (500 hours).  The 270 hour and 500 hour programs are to our knowledge the most advanced and comprehensive Reflexology programs in America.

Course Objectives:  The students will know typical patterns for working with disorders that can assist their clients or can be suggested to their clients as a health workout. The student will be able to perform a complete Reflexology session as a stand alone modality. The student will be able to incorporate hand and foot Reflexology into their massage sessions.

CONTINUING EDUCATION SAMPLER (6 hours)

Students will be introduced to Lomi Lomi (Hawaiian Temple Massage), Hot Stone Massage, Lymphatic Drainage Massage, Lypossage (Body Contouring Massage), and Claiming Your Ground.

Course Objective: Students will be able to plan what classes they would like to take to further their education

NUTRITION AND HERBS (15 hours)

General holistic health principles are taught including positive thoughts and speech, avoiding extreme eating habits, living your life’s purpose with passion, and how nutrition fits into the total health picture. The vibrational resonance of foods, herbs, and speech will be discussed in relation to the vibrational resonances of various diseases. The student will learn how to increase the body's resonance above the octave range of disease. All the various classes of herbs will be explored as well as the uses of the main herbs within each category to restore balance to the body. Other topics include: vitamin, herbal and mineral supplements;  beneficial and harmful carbohydrates, including refined table sugar vs. unrefined natural sugar and blood sugar regulation; beneficial and harmful forms of salt; water soluble and non-water soluble fiber; detoxification of the body through colon cleansing, colon herbs and parasite cleansing; digestive enzymes; boosting your immune system; numerous approaches to the common cold and to respiratory ailments; eating balanced meals; and water contamination via the skin, showering, and drinking water. Subjects which will also be touched upon include: food intolerances, mucous forming foods, how to bless your food, cholesterol, unhealthy and beneficial fats, candida, homeopathy, cell salts, vegetarianism, and numerous other topics. Extensive notes are provided.  A certificate of completion is received.

Course Objectives:  Participants will be empowered to help themselves through new health perspectives and knowledge, and many health myths will be debunked.  Participants will gain greater self-reliance regarding their own health.

ORTHOPEDIC NEUROMUSCULAR THERAPY: Levels 1-4 (66 Hours)

Prerequisite: Completion of Deep Muscle Massage or any basic bodywork training, and completion of the first five weeks of Anatomy and Physiology I or the equivalent. The prerequisite for level 4 is completion of levels 1-3.

Orthopedic Neuromuscular Therapy is a method of pain relief which utilizes basic orthopedic principles as well as neural reflex pathways from trigger points, joints, and nerves to reduce muscle tension, relieve pain, and to balance the musculoskeletal system and the nervous system. Soft tissue manipulation is done and pressure is applied to specific points to alleviate myofascial dysfunctions, fibrotic adhesions, and trigger points. A brief anatomical review will be given at the beginning of each level. In each level, focus will be on learning the trigger point pain patterns, their causes, and the neuromuscular therapy techniques. Students will learn treatments for common problems such as back pain, buttock's pain, sciatica, pelvic/ sacroiliac joint imbalances, "short leg" syndromes, whiplash, TMJ, herniated discs, disc bulges, and pinched nerves. Additionally, students will learn treatments for common problems of the shoulders, arms, knees, ankles, and feet. A certificate of completion will be given on completion of all four levels. Each level is two days (16.5 hours).

637 HOUR MASSAGE THERAPY PROGRAM CLOCK HOURS *

*       A clock hour consists of 50 minutes of classroom instruction and 10 minutes break.

Student/Teacher Ratio

The student/faculty ratio varies from class to class as needed for optimal learning.  It averages 8 students per instructor for hands on classes and 12 students per instructor for lecture classes.

Diploma and Certificate of Completion Requirements

Upon completion of the Deep Muscle Massage Program, a 130-hour certificate of completion will be awarded. Additionally, a certificate of completion will be received for Aromatherapy. For nurses, 108.5 CNE hours may be applied towards the continuing education requirements from the Deep Muscle Massage Program for the Holistic Nursing Certification examination and re-certification process.

Upon completion of 637 hours of study, the student will receive a diploma in Massage Therapy.  Additionally, thirteen certificates of completion are awarded for various subjects taken within the program as noted in the course descriptions. Nurses will also receive 108.5 CNE hours as noted above.

The following requirements must be met for each course within a program in order to graduate:  average test score of 70% or higher on exams; completion of all homework; satisfactory evaluation for massage technique; attendance of all classes (refer to Attendance / Tardiness section); and fulfillment of all financial obligations to the Institute.  If a student falls behind in payments, his or her certificates, diploma, and student transcript will be withheld until he or she becomes current in payment.  The grading system is as follows:  98 - 100% = A+, 95 - 97% = A, 93 - 94% = A-, 91 - 92% = B+, 88 - 90% = B, 86 - 87% = B-, 84 - 85% = C+, 80 - 83% = C, 78 - 79% = C-, 76 - 77% = D+, 70 - 75% = D, and below 70% = F.  Some 1 or 2 day weekend courses are simply Pass/Fail Courses.  The requirements to pass these courses are full attendance in these courses and full participation in class projects and hands-on practicals.  These pass/fail courses are Reflexology, Scentsational Aromatherapy, and Client Communication Skills.

Schedule of Classes

The Deep Muscle Massage Program and 637 hour Massage Therapy Programs start three times a year: in January, June and October.  Classes are available on weekdays, evenings, and weekends.  Please see our separate blue publication entitled Deep Muscle Massage Program Options.  If you wish to take the 637 hour Massage Therapy Program, please ask for the corresponding green suggested schedule(s) for the timeslot(s) you are considering.  If the green suggested schedule(s) do not meet your needs, please contact the school to see if we can personally customize a schedule for you.  It is possible to switch from one time slot into another if your schedule should switch after you begin your classes.

Program Changes

The Institute reserves the right to make additions, deletions, and alterations to any and all of the above programs and the requirements of the above programs with proper notification to the students enrolled in the programs.