| Spa Wellness Articles :: Program Descriptions & Career Overviews |
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| Acupressure Studies - Acupressure Programs |
| by Amanda Fornecker |
Acupressure is an ancient form of Chinese medicine that is very similar to the concept of Acupuncture, except that it does not use needles. The hand, elbow, and other objects are used to relieve the pressure points along the meridian and free the body from disease. In doing so, one may affect the balance of the body so as to bring the body back to its natural chi, or flow of energy. Acupressure practitioners are trained in specific skills that will aid in the use of this traditional holistic medicinal approach.
What You'll Learn
At acupressure schools, students get a sense of the benefits of this holistic method and how to properly use their fingers to promote healing in the body. Students of acupressure schools also learn the therapeutic uses of acupressure to heal chronic pain and other acute conditions. Two specific techniques commonly taught are Shiatsu (a firm pressure method) and Jin Shin (a gentle form of acupressure).
Degree Types
Most acupressure schools offer acupressure certification within their Massage therapy departments. The number of hours required for each certificate is dependent on each individual school and the state in which the acupressure school is located.
Career Paths
Acupressure practitioners go on to work in their own practices, at wellness clinics, and massage therapy offices. Students of massage therapy generally use acupressure as a specialization.
Job Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) the demand for massage therapists is expected to grow faster than the average through the year 2014. Opportunities for advancement are sometimes limited, but with a certification in acupressure, the options for massage therapists are further increased. The median hourly earnings, according to the BLS, were $15.36 in 2004.
Licensing and Accreditation Information
There is currently no national accrediting body for those with an acupressure specialization. Many massage therapists and acupuncturists practice acupressure and most have a certificate, which shows they have learned all the important uses and benefits of acupressure.
State licensing boards:
For information on licensing check out the American Organization for Bodywork Therapies of Asia (AOBTA) and the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB).
About the author:
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| Schools that offer Accupuncture |
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