July 12, 2012 | Alberta

Healthcare professionals consider massage therapy to be one of the oldest methods of healing, with references in some medical texts dating as far back as 4,000 years ago. This type of care is used to help relieve pain in the musculoskeletal, circulatory-lymphatic and nervous systems for those who have experienced injuries, soreness or an illness that brings perpetual discomfort.

Adults who enter this field will learn how to apply a variety of techniques to heal the human body, such as fixed or movable pressure, vibration, rocking, friction and compression, generally using the hands. Hundreds of thousands of massage therapists set up home offices or larger organizations across the country to help provide the right care to people in need. It's crucial for aspiring massage practitioners to develop the right  skills and compete to become valuable workers in the field.

One method used by therapists is hydrotherapy. The treatment involves the use of water to assist in the healing process, in the form of a whirlpool, ice or heat packs, steam baths or body wraps. This approach is highly effective for those who suffer from osteoarthritis.

Students who wish to pursue a career as a registered massage therapist can enroll in courses to learn more about hydrotherapy and other treatment methods at CDI College. For more information, fill out the form on the right.