| Course Descriptions
Unit I |
| Swedish Massage is the foundation of therapeutic bodywork. In addition to technique and theory, this course focuses on the development of efficient body mechanics and practitioner self-care. Medical indications and contraindications and the therapeutic value of massage for stress reduction and relaxation are discussed. Emphasis is placed on the qualitative aspects of therapeutic touch. |
| Anatomy and Physiology I concentrates on the muscular, skeletal, and integumentary systems of the body. Students are introduced to the major muscle groups including their attachments and actions. The course also provides an overview of all the systems in the body. |
| Business Practices introduces practice management and marketing skills for the successful massage therapist. Class topics include business procedures, goal setting for post graduate career plans, professional ethics, and the exploration of various employment opportunities. Students learn marketing tools and techniques and develop a personal marketing strategy. |
| Practical Anatomy is specifically designed to integrate knowledge of anatomy with actual hands-on work. Games, body painting and other creative activities are utilized for an experiential approach to facilitate the learning process. |
| Unit II |
| Deep Tissue Massage covers the second major skill block in massage therapy and is used in clinical treatment. It utilizes various techniques including Neuromuscular Therapy, Trigger Point work, and myofascial release. The course teaches applications and sequences for each area of the body. |
| Anatomy and Physiology II continues with an in-depth study of the systems of the body. Unit II concentrates on the central nervous system and the cardiovascular system. The course also introduces the use of Anatomy and Physiology in clinical evaluations. |
| Movement Therapy combines theory and technique from numerous disciplines to integrate the use of movement in massage therapy. A combination of gentle rocking and joint mobilizations, Movement Therapy is an additional tool for opening and freeing the body. |
| Pathology I: Evaluation and Treatment classes study six regions of the body, from the perspective of common pathologies encountered by the massage therapist in everyday practice. Specific dysfunctions and treatment options for each area are explored. These classes are designed to develop evaluative skills, and the selection of appropriate treatment to restore body function. Each class will include some practical application; however, the emphasis is on information. |
| Somatic Psychology gives the student experience and practical skills to deal with the qualitative element of professional bodywork including client/therapist relationship dynamics, communication skills, and boundary functions. |
| Introductory Sports Massage covers some of the many bodywork techniques used for working with athletes. Students learn the therapeutic benefits of heating and cooling and become familiar with evaluation, treatment, and rehabilitation of common sports injuries. Students are exposed to new techniques, and trained in appropriate application and correct execution. A pre-event and post-event sequence is also taught. |
| Evaluation Standards are used to ensure readiness and appropriate skill level to continue with training. Students are evaluated at the completion of Unit II on all material covered to date. Hands-on ability and knowledge of theory and application are considered on a satisfactory/unsatisfactory basis. |
| Community Service Project utilizes the information presented in the Business Practices segment of Unit I and is a unique opportunity for students to promote positive public awareness and gain practical experience. Students choose a project in an area of special interest. They begin building public confidence and increase marketing skills by developing and implementing a project plan. Past projects include events such as marathons, bike races, club meetings, health fairs and festivals, and corporate venues. Students of TMTI have proudly provided post-event massage for the Charlotte Observer Marathon for more than fifteen consecutive years. |
| Unit III |
| Integrative Manipulation Techniques introduces the use of non-invasive approaches to treat the body. Drawing from the practice of eastern and western modalities, this course presents alternatives for healing with emphasis on manipulative techniques to decrease pain and reduce stress. Elements of classic oriental medicine are taught to give students a basic understanding of energy systems and the general flow in the body. |
| Anatomy and Physiology III completes the in-depth study of the structure and function of the body. Unit III concentrates on the respiratory, lymphatic, endocrine, and digestive systems with a comprehensive review of all body systems. |
| Clinical Research is a course consisting of work both in and out of the classroom. In class students learn the elements of clinical research. With guidance from the instructor, students then do out of class research and document an area of individual interest. Results are reported in the form of a written paper and verbal presentation to the class. |
| Practical Application provides an opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience in a variety of supervised settings. Students select times and areas of interest. Possibilities include our school clinic, scheduled classroom clinicals, reviews and numerous community athletic events, health fairs, and festivals. |
| Seated Massage teaches the techniques used in a fully clothed, oil-free, seated massage session, where hands-on techniques are used to reduce tension in the back, neck, head, and arms. These techniques may be used in the workplace for a 15 minute mini massage and are effective tools for education and marketing. |
| Nutrition introduces basic concepts of nutrition. The objectives of this course are to familiarize students with the macronutrients of food: carbohydrates, fats and protein; and introduce micronutrients including vitamins and minerals. Lecture and discussion encourage an appreciation for the effects of these nutrients on the body and mind. Standard nutritional guidelines and dietary alternatives are also presented. |
| Pathology II continues the study of common pathologies encountered in the practice of massage and therapeutic bodywork. Indications and contraindications are considered in depth and related to Anatomy and Physiology. Individual case studies are presented and discussed. |
| Evaluation Standards prior to graduation include a comprehensive written and practical evaluation of all course material presented in the Professional Certification Program. Students are scored on knowledge of theory, application, integration of techniques and practical ability. |
