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Massage Therapy Course Description

MT 1030 Basic Hygiene and Nutrition
MT 1300 Basic Business Management and Ethics
Code Course Hours Prerequisite
MT 1030 Basic Hygiene and Nutrition 10 None
 
This course will train student to understand hygienic standards. Students will also discuss basic elements of nutrition and the digestive system, including an overview of food components, and the impact on and prevention of disease through nutrition.
   
 
 
 
 
MT 1300 Basic Business Management and Ethics 20 None
 
This interactive class covers a wide range of topics including getting licensed, producing advertisements, creating a business plan, developing a business identity, building and maintaining a client base, and guidance for long-range planning for the self-employed. It also covers the practical aspects of bookkeeping, creating a personal and business budget, professionalism, taxes, insurance billing, and the new privacy acts in the health care profession.
Students also learn the professional standards of the field in practice. In Ethics, students will learn legal, ethical, client confidentiality and personal conduct issues connected with massage therapy as a profession while observing professional standards in practice.
   
       
MT 2000 Human Body System and Anatomy, Physiology and Kinesiology
MT 2010 Pathology
MT 2020 Assessment for Bodywork
Code Course Hours Prerequuisite
MT 2000 Human Body System and Anatomy, Physiology and Kinesiology 140 None
  This is a course that covers in-depth anatomy and physiology with detail knowledge in the complete body system, including the Skeletal, Muscular, Nervous, Integument, Circulatory, Respiratory, Endocrine, Immune system, Digestive, Urinary and the Reproductive System. Pathological considerations, interrelationships of systems, pain and injury are also introduced. Students also gain advance knowledge in kinesiology/body mechanics such as the actions of individual muscles/muscle groups, types of muscle contractions, joint movements, movement patterns and proprioception. Students also learn to palpate bones, muscles and ligaments introduced in the course.    
 
 
 
 
MT 2010 Pathology 50 Concurrent study with MT 2000
 
Students are introduced to diseases of the body systems medical terminology involved in pathological context,  modes of contagious disease transmission, signs and symptoms of disease, psychological and emotional states, effects of life stages, effects of physical and emotional abuse and trauma, factors that aggravate or alleviate disease, physiological healing process, indication and contraindication of massage therapy related to the pathological symptoms, principles of acute versus chronic conditions, stages/aspects of serious/terminal illness, basic pharmacology concepts, approaches used in Western medicine and Asian medicine by other health professionals. Pathological conditions of human body systems and related indications and contraindications of massage therapy are discussed.
 
       
MT 2020 Assessment for Bodywork 20 Concurrent study with MT 2000 and MT 2010
 
Students learn assessment methods and areas for assessment as therapeutic massage professionals. Topics of study also include range of motion assessment, somatic holding patterns, posture analysis, structural and functional integration, ergonomic factors, effects of gravity, proprioception of position and movement. Students also learn various ways to keep assessment records including writing SOAP notes.
 
       
MT 2100 Massage Practicum
MT 2110 Swedish Massage and Lymph Drainage
MT 2120 Chair Massage
MT 2130 Sports Massage and Therapeutic Stretching
MT 2140 Reflexology
MT 2150 Deep Tissue Massage and Applications
MT 2180 Aromatherapy
MT 2190 Hydrotherapy and Heat / Cold Therapy
Code Course Hours Prerequuisite
MT 2100 Massage Practicum 60
MT2000, MT2010, MT2020, completed specific skill training module(s) required for performing the massage techniques specified for the client at the clinic
 
This is a massage internship course which provides students opportunities to apply knowledge they learn from the MT2000’s series courses and perform massage skills on customers or patients who visit Kingston University clinic under the direct supervision of the instructor or clinic supervisor. By exposing to the clinic environment, students get the first hand experience of carrying out the entire routine process in a professional setting, from the customer/patient encounter at the reception, communication and consultation, write up of SOAP notes, performing massage treatment, to keeping clinical records and maintaining treatment room ready for subsequent treatment session.  
While enhancing their hands-on massage skills learned from the MT2000’s series courses during the practicum training, students also gain experience in working with a variety of body types and physical conditions. Through the entire course of therapy, they build up their confidence and competency in working with the general public.
Supervised practice hours for fulfilling massage practicum training at clinic are unpaid.
 
 
 
 
 
MT 2110 Swedish Massage and Lymph Drainage 80 Complete or concurrent enrolled in MT 2000 or the equivalent
 
As the first course to start the skill training in the Massage Technician 600-hour program, the class will begin with an introduction to students on the history and benefits of massage therapy as the natural healing technique; contradictions of massage therapy; professional boundary and code of ethics; and communication skill training.
During the skill training, students will start by learning hygiene precautions and technique, self-care warm-up and stretching exercises such as yoga practice, the setup of rooms and table, draping of client during massage; bolstering technique;  classic and fundamental strokes in Swedish Massage which covers effleurage, petrissage, friction, tapotement, and vibrations. Students will also learn the functions of the lymphatic and immune systems, and their roles in maintaining optimal health. It will introduce a treatment protocol for the front of the body, starting with hands-on therapy, to enhance the immune system functions, leading to tissue regeneration.
 
       
MT 2120 Chair Massage 20
Complete or concurrent enrolled in MT 2000 or the equivalent
 
In addition to basic chair massage techniques for alleviating counter-productive tension found frequently in office and high stress situations, this class includes discussion of the benefits and the business of chair massage, selection of massage chairs, developing chair massage programs meeting time constraint and budget of clients, .and proper body mechanics to satisfy the needs of the client without tiring the therapist.
 
       
MT 2130 Sports Massage and Therapeutic Stretching 70
MT 2000, MT 2010, MT 2020, and MT 2110
 
Students will learn to use the knowledge and skill of massage therapy to prepare an athlete for competition with invigorating, stimulating massage and stretching techniques, and also to help improving an athlete’s performance. Subsequently, students will learn the best methods for jumpstarting the recovery of a post-event athlete, including breaking down lactic acid and cramp release. Techniques to help alleviate pain and discomfort of muscles group in rotator cuff are also covered.
Students will also learn various methods of facilitating stretching and self stretching techniques, assessment of tight muscles and restricting connective tissues. This is gentle, pain relieving work for the body. These stretching techniques may be incorporated in a Swedish/Deep Tissue massage and other massage modules.
 
       
MT 2140 Reflexology 20 None
 
This class covers the history, principles and contraindications of Reflexology, and the theory of reflexes and zones. Students will study the anatomy of the foot, and learn thumb and finger techniques. Students will learn a relaxation technique and the practical application of the most important parts of the body found on the feet.
   
       
MT 2150 Deep Tissue Massage and Applications 70 MT 2000, MT 2110
 
Students are introduced to massage techniques that work on deeper layers of muscles in this course. Techniques to cover include Deep Tissue Massage, Myofascial Therapy and Trigger Points Release. Students will also learn methods of locating tender spots in tight muscles, which are often reasons related to headaches; aching shoulders, arms and legs; and certain autonomic phenomena so that proper massage techniques can be applied to help alleviate the pain.
   
       
MT 2180 Aromatherapy 10 MT 2000 and MT 2010
 
Students will learn the history and production of essential oils, how they are used today, contraindications, buying and storing, and a beginner’s guide to selecting and blending.
   
       
MT 2190 Hydrotherapy and heat / cold therapy 4
MT 2000, MT 2010 and MT 2020
 
Water, in its various forms, continues to be employed to enhance the health and well-being of individuals and can be used to add therapeutic value to massage therapy. This course concentrates on the external therapeutic use of water and the application of heated or cooled water for use in specific indications. Contraindications are also introduced in the discussion.
 
       
MT 2200 Acupuncture Meridian Theories and Points
Code Course Hours Prerequisite
MT 2200 Acupuncture Meridian Theories and Points 20 MT 2000
 
This is an introductory course of theories of Traditional Acupuncture Meridians. Topics cover the origin of Meridians, formation and development, pathway and composition of the Twelve Meridians and Eight Extra Meridians, their collaterals, distribution of muscular and cutaneous regions.  Students will understand Asian philosophical Yin-Yang aspects, the Gen Jie, Biao Ben, Qi Jie and Four seasons of Acupuncture Meridians and physiological functions, the principles of application in traditional Acupuncture medicine.
   
 
 
 
 
MT 3100 Advance Massage Practicum
MT 3110 Facial Massage
MT 3120 Herbology and Essential Oils
MT 3130 Massage for Sports Injury
MT 3140 Massage for the Palliative Care
MT 3150 Massage for Pregnancy and Babies
MT 3170 Lomi Lomi
Code Course Hours Prerequisite
MT 3100 Advance Massage Practicum 80
 
In this advanced level of supervised practice training, students will integrate skills learned in the advanced massage courses in the 3000’s series in providing massage therapy to clients visiting Kingston University clinic under the direct supervision of an instructor or clinic supervisor. Students will be enhanced in skills for developing psychological and physical dynamics of practitioner/client relationship, educating clients, design and planning of therapy programs involving multiple sessions, communication with other healthcare professionals and business skill practices. Case study approach is integrated in the class along with group review and discussion as part of the training to prepare students for independent research and professional development. Students may also learn additional massage therapy techniques.
Supervised practice hours are unpaid.
  all MT2000’s series courses and specific skill training module(s) in the MT3000’s series courses required for performing the massage techniques specified for the client at the clinic
 
 
 
 
MT 3110 Facial Massage 40  
 
The course introduces students to a precise healthcare modality working systematically on the face by following meridian theory and lymphatic system.  The facial rejuvenating massage releases deep tension in the face and free layers of muscles and connective tissue so that there is space for muscles to relax and the microcirculation to opened, which help the tissue glide smoothly over deeper layer of muscle. Consequently, it helps prevent new tension lines and wrinkles from appearing, as well as diminishing the existing ones and hence slow down the aging process. With the gentle massage to the face, headache, anxiety, and fatigue are also released.
Students will begin with a review of bones and muscles of the face and functions of facial muscles. Students will learn delicate massage techniques which involves Swedish massage strokes, lymph drainage techniques, acupressure points and meridian knowledge. These techniques will rejuvenate the face with muscle tone and skin complexion, and boost energy. Precaution measures for performing facial massage are also covered in the training.
  MT 2000, MT 2010, MT 2110 and MT 2200
       
MT 3120 Herbology and Essential Oils 10 MT 2180
 
Students are introduced to the classification and identification of herbs followed by cultivation and application of herbs in natural healing contexts such as Oriental Medicine and Massage Therapy. This course also introduce students to chemical properties of oils and train students techniques of blending essential oils which are selected based on the needs of treatment and chemical characteristics of the oils.
   
       
MT 3130 Massage for Sports Injury 40  
 
Students will learn to induce a change in the structure and function of the neuromusculoskeletal soft tissue to promote healing of the whole person. Students will understand the structure, function, dysfunction and injury of soft tissues involved in most pain and disability in the body in order to reach specific treatment goals for orthopedic conditions.
  MT 2000, MT 2010, MT 2020, MT 2110, MT 2130 and MT 2150
       
MT 3140 Massage for the Palliative Care 30  
 
This course is designed with focus on providing massage therapy to people of special needs such as seniors, hospital patients, patients with cancer undergoing medical treatment. Along with traditional therapeutic techniques, students will learn how to incorporate supportive and palliative care for oncology patients into their application of the art and science of massage therapy. Students will learn the skills necessary to discover and maintain their own personal boundaries / comfort zone, communicate effectively with this special population, assess the patients needs, and apply their skills through hands-on practice with modifications.
  MT 2000, MT 2010, MT 2020, MT 2110, MT 2190
       
MT 3150 Massage for Pregnancy and Babies 30  
 
Massage is a soothing and beneficial therapy during both the prenatal and post delivery period. Students will learn the anatomy and physiology of pregnancy throughout each trimester, pre-cautions, safety issues and contraindications to massage during pregnancy, proper draping and positioning of pregnant client for comfort and safety, develop a one hour side-lying routine with emphasis on alleviating some minor discomforts of pregnancy, and marketing techniques to attract clientele.
Massage helps women recovering from birth delivery, strengthen the touch sense of the baby and stimulate sense of love. Students are introduced pre-cautions, proper draping and positioning of babies during massage therapy, and application of massage techniques. This course is especially helpful to those who have or prepare to have babies as this massage course  helps strengthen the bond between the baby and mother.
  MT 2000, MT 2010, MT 2020, and MT 2110
       
MT 3170 Lomi Lomi 20 MT 2000 and MT 2110
 
An ancient Polynesian healing technique covering a broad area of the body and works,.  Lomi lomi massage is given in fluid,rhythmic motion using the forearms as well as the hands. Some people have described this as feeling lie gentle waves moving over the under body and full body strokes also help to free the energy, make the body soft, promoting free and abundant flow of life energy in the recipient. Students will practice its characteristic large and broad strokes, as well as two-handed stokes that enlist the forearms and elbows to encourage the continuous flow of love and harmony. Students will also learn to practice quiet prayers to request effective healing before beginning this Loving Hand Massage technique and incorporate techniques from other massage modalities during the session.
   
       
MT 3210 Acupressure & Tuina
MT 3220 Energy Work for Massage Therapist
MT 3230 Thai Massage
MT 3250 Chakra and Hot Stone Massage
MT 3300 Massage and SPA Industry
Code Course Hours Prerequisite
MT 3210 Acupressure & Tuina 40 MT 2000 and MT 2200
 
This course will train basic manual finger and thumb pressure techniques and oriental medical therapeutic massage. The manipulation methods apply acupuncture points to elicit a therapeutic reaction, relief pain syndromes in disorders of neuromuscular systems and connective tissues which ultimately improve circulation, venous and lymphatic drainage, and help to maintain and improve normal physiological mechanics.  
   
 
 
 
 
MT 3220 Energy Work for Massage Therapist 30 None
 
Massage therapists are at risk for repetitive motion injuries due to the stress giving massage puts on their bodies. Self care and burnout prevention are the crucial components of sustaining professional career life of massage therapists. Tai Chi exercise is known to promote somatic-visceral health and longevity. Therefore, as part of the self-care training course series which include MT2130, therapeutic stretching techniques for pre and post massage session self care, students learn to practice Tai Chi in this energy exercise course to enhance and regulate their Qi (energy) circulation and to ultimately help then maintaining a healthy balance between productivity and their overall health. Topics and exercises to cover include Chinese classic holistic meditation, guiding with emphasis on meridian theories and Chinese philosophy of Qi promoting body movement, practice of self defense and subtle body energy flow. and experiencing the promoting effect of Tai Chi exercise on somatic-visceral health life and longevity.
   
       
MT 3230 Thai Massage 40 MT 1030, MT 2000, MT 2020
 
Thai Massage is a special massage technique that involves intensive interaction between the therapist and client. It is a fusion of of Buddhist spiritual practice and Indian Ayurvedic bodywork. It combines yoga techniques and the spiritual commitment of working with "loving kindness". Working intuitively and without judgment in this way supports our Cody's natural inclination to heal itself. Thai massage is a powerful form of energy rebalance and physical massage. Students will learn rhythmic pressing and stretching on the client’s entire body, including pulling fingers, toes, ears, cracking the knuckles, walking on the recipient's back, and arching the recipient's into cobra position. Students will integrate yoga into the practice of Thai massage and place clients into many yoga-like positions on the floor while performing massage. Students also learn to use their legs and feet to fixate the body or limbs of the client.
 
       
MT 3250 Chakra and Hot Stone Massage 30
MT 2000, MT 2010, MT 2110 and MT 2180
 
Students are introduced to the ancient Indian medication and the seven major Chakra. Topics to cover include location of the chakra, its association in emotion control and color. In hot stone massage application, students learn to appreciate the natural energy stones may bring to healing and the use of warm stones to the body, either in a stationary position, or used as “gliding tools” along with oil.
 
       
MT 3300 Massage and SPA Industry 20 MT 1300
 
SPA is one of the most popular industry where massage therapy is most demanded. In this course, students will gain an insight to SPA concept and design; history and development of SPA; various type of SPA and components and how massage therapy is integrated into the services. Visits to selected SPA operation may be arranged to help students prepare for their career in the field. Other topics to cover include overview of relevant law and regulations; structure and organization including human resource management; customer services and database; SPA promotion and marketing, and SPA services trend. 
   
       

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