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# The Soma Institute

## Sitemaps
[XML Sitemap](https://www.soma.edu/sitemap_index.xml): Includes all crawlable and indexable pages.

## Posts
- [How to Become a Massage Therapist in Illinois: Step-by-Step Guide](https://www.soma.edu/blog/how-to-become-a-massage-therapist-in-illinois-step-by-step-guide/): Maybe you’ve always been interested in health and wellness. Maybe you’re burned out in an office job and want something more hands-on. Or maybe you are looking for a career where you can help people feel better every day and actually see the difference you are making.
- [Massage Therapist Career Change Guide: Is a Career in Massage Therapy Right for You?](https://www.soma.edu/news/massage-therapist-career-change-guide/): Many people who consider becoming massage therapists are not starting from scratch.
- [What to Expect During Your Clinical Hours in Massage Therapy School](https://www.soma.edu/blog/what-to-expect-during-your-clinical-hours-in-massage-therapy-school/): For many massage therapy students, clinical hours are one of the things they look forward to most and worry about most at the same time.
- [The Soma Institute Celebrates Two Outstanding Honors](https://www.soma.edu/blog/the-soma-institute-celebrates-two-outstanding-honors/): At The Soma Institute, student success is never just about what happens in the classroom. It is about the people who make up the Soma community, the passion they bring to the profession, and the way they support others every step of the way.
- [Massage Therapy in Rehab Settings: Orthopedic, Myofascial, and Trigger Point Techniques](https://www.soma.edu/blog/rehab-massage-therapy/): When most people think about massage therapy, they picture a quiet room, soft music, and relaxation.
- [What You Need to Know Before Opening Your Own Massage Therapy Practice](https://www.soma.edu/blog/what-you-need-to-know-before-opening-your-own-massage-therapy-practice/): For many massage therapists, the idea of starting a massage therapy business grows naturally out of the work itself. After time spent learning techniques, understanding the body, and helping clients feel real relief, the next question often becomes: Could I do this on my own?
- [160 Strong: How The Soma Institute Supported the Chicago Marathon](https://www.soma.edu/blog/160-strong-how-the-soma-institute-supported-the-chicago-marathon/): If you were in downtown Chicago on October 12, you probably felt the energy in the air — the rush of runners, the cheers and high-fives, and volunteers working hard to keep everything moving. Among them was a dedicated team from The Soma Institute. As the only massage therapy school volunteering at the Chicago Marathon, they showed up in force with 160 students, faculty, and graduates lending their skills to support thousands of athletes at one of the world’s most celebrated races.
- [How Clinical Massage Therapy Connects to the Health and Wellness Career Space](https://www.soma.edu/blog/how-clinical-massage-therapy-connects-to-the-health-and-wellness-career-space/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [From Classroom to Sidelines: The Journey of a Trained Sports Massage Therapist](https://www.soma.edu/blog/from-classroom-to-sidelines-the-journey-of-a-trained-sports-massage-therapist/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [Networking Tips for Massage Therapy Students](https://www.soma.edu/blog/networking-tips-for-massage-therapy-students/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [How Massage Therapy & Mental Health are Linked](https://www.soma.edu/blog/how-massage-therapy-mental-health-are-linked/): Take our quiz to determine if clinical massage therapy is the right career path for you or apply online today.
- [The Role of Clinical Massage Therapy in Post-Surgical Recovery](https://www.soma.edu/blog/the-role-of-clinical-massage-therapy-in-post-surgical-recovery/): Clinical massage therapy is becoming an increasingly valuable component of post-op recovery, offering numerous benefits that support the body’s healing process. Massage therapy after surgery can be an essential part of a multi-faceted approach to recovery, helping individuals regain function and comfort more effectively. Post-surgery massage benefits the recovery experience by reducing scar tissue, improving circulation, and easing muscle tension—all contributing to faster and more effective healing.
- [The Role of Clinical Massage Therapy in Holistic Health Care](https://www.soma.edu/blog/the-role-of-clinical-massage-therapy-in-holistic-health-care/): Clinical massage therapy is gaining recognition as an essential component of holistic health care, integrating seamlessly with broader health care systems to support overall well-being. As part of an integrative approach, clinical massage therapy not only helps alleviate physical discomfort but also promotes mental and emotional wellness. Let’s explore how clinical massage therapy fits within a holistic health care model, emphasizing the importance of anatomy and pathology knowledge, and the value of collaboration with other health professionals.
- [The Chicago Marathon 2024: How Sports Massage Therapy Helps Runners](https://www.soma.edu/blog/the-chicago-marathon-2024-how-sports-massage-therapy-helps-runners/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [Burnout Prevention: The Benefits of Massage Therapy for Stress](https://www.soma.edu/blog/how-massage-therapy-can-help-prevent-burnout/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [The Healing Power of Touch: Key Insights from Recent Massage Therapy Research](https://www.soma.edu/blog/the-healing-power-of-touch-key-insights-from-recent-massage-therapy-research/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [Clinical Massage Therapy vs. Wellness Massage Therapy: What’s the Difference?](https://www.soma.edu/blog/clinical-massage-therapy-vs-wellness-massage-therapy-whats-the-difference/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [Employment Opportunities for Soma Graduates](https://www.soma.edu/blog/employment-opportunities-for-soma-graduates/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [Preparing for the MBLEX: Essential Tips for Massage Therapy Exam Prep](https://www.soma.edu/blog/how-to-prep-for-the-mblex-test/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [Massage & Thyroid Health](https://www.soma.edu/blog/massage-thyroid-health/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [Learn Massage Therapy](https://www.soma.edu/blog/learn-massage-therapy/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [Building a Mobile Massage Therapy Business: Tips and Considerations](https://www.soma.edu/blog/building-a-mobile-massage-therapy-business-tips-and-considerations/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [How Massage Therapists Can Enhance Their Own Health and Well-Being](https://www.soma.edu/blog/how-massage-therapists-can-enhance-their-own-health-and-well-being/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [Networking and Professional Development as a Massage Therapist](https://www.soma.edu/blog/networking-and-professional-development-as-a-massage-therapist/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [Geriatric Massage: Enhancing Well-Being for Older Adults](https://www.soma.edu/blog/geriatric-massage-enhancing-well-being-for-older-adults/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [Hands-On Learning Versus In-Class Learning in Massage Therapy](https://www.soma.edu/blog/hands-on-learning-versus-in-class-learning-in-massage-therapy/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [The Future of Massage Therapy](https://www.soma.edu/blog/the-future-of-massage-therapy/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [Ethics in Massage Therapy](https://www.soma.edu/blog/ethics-in-massage-therapy/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [The Anatomy of Massage](https://www.soma.edu/blog/the-anatomy-of-massage-soma/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [Massage Therapy in Professional Sports](https://www.soma.edu/blog/massage-therapy-in-professional-sports/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [Client Communication in Massage Therapy](https://www.soma.edu/blog/client-communication-in-massage-therapy/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [How to Prepare for a Career in Massage Therapy](https://www.soma.edu/blog/how-to-prepare-for-a-career-in-massage-therapy/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [The Importance of Continuing Education for Massage Therapists: Staying Ahead in a Changing Field](https://www.soma.edu/blog/the-importance-of-continuing-education-for-massage-therapists-staying-ahead-in-a-changing-field/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [Health Benefits of Massage Therapy](https://www.soma.edu/blog/health-benefits-of-massage-therapy/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [The Role of Massage Therapy in Stress Management](https://www.soma.edu/blog/the-role-of-massage-therapy-in-stress-management/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [Career Path Opportunities for Massage Therapists](https://www.soma.edu/blog/career-opportunities-in-massage-therapy/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [What to Expect During Massage Therapy School](https://www.soma.edu/blog/what-to-expect-during-massage-therapy-school/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [Building a Successful Massage Therapy Business](https://www.soma.edu/blog/building-a-successful-massage-therapy-business/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [Essential Skills Massage Therapists Should Have](https://www.soma.edu/blog/essential-skills-massage-therapists-should-have/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [Why Choose The Soma Institute](https://www.soma.edu/blog/why-choose-the-soma-institute/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [How Massage Therapy Can Make an Impact](https://www.soma.edu/blog/how-massage-therapy-can-make-an-impact/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [The Impact of Massage Therapy: Why Has It Become More Important?](https://www.soma.edu/blog/the-impact-of-massage-therapy-why-has-it-become-more-important/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [Building a Fulfilling Career in Massage Therapy: What Should You Know](https://www.soma.edu/blog/building-a-fulfilling-career-in-massage-therapy-what-should-you-know/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [How to Build a Successful Therapy Business: 3 Building Blocks to Focus On](https://www.soma.edu/blog/how-to-build-a-successful-therapy-business-3-building-blocks-to-focus-on/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [How to Stand Out in the Competitive Landscape of Massage Therapy](https://www.soma.edu/blog/how-to-stand-out-in-the-competitive-landscape-of-massage-therapy/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [Starting a Massage Therapy Business](https://www.soma.edu/blog/starting-a-massage-therapy-business/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [A Step-By-Step Guide to Becoming a Certified Massage Therapist](https://www.soma.edu/blog/a-step-by-step-guide-to-becoming-a-certified-massage-therapist/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [Balancing Work, Life & Massage Therapy School](https://www.soma.edu/blog/balancing-work-life-massage-therapy-school/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [The Role of Massage Therapy in Sports Medicine](https://www.soma.edu/blog/the-role-of-massage-therapy-in-sports-medicine/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [The Chicago Marathon 2023: A Preview](https://www.soma.edu/blog/the-chicago-marathon-2023/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [Massage Therapy and Personal Training:  Creating a “One-Stop-Shop”](https://www.soma.edu/uncategorized/massage-therapy-and-personal-training-creating-a-one-stop-shop/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [Career Opportunities After Graduating from Massage Therapy School](https://www.soma.edu/news/career-opportunities-after-graduating-from-massage-therapy-school/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [Choosing the Right Massage Therapy School:  A Comprehensive Guide](https://www.soma.edu/news/choosing-the-right-massage-therapy-school-a-comprehensive-guide/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [The Growing Demand for Massage Therapy Professionals: Career Opportunities and Job Outlook](https://www.soma.edu/news/the-growing-demand-for-massage-therapy-professionals-career-opportunities-and-job-outlook/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [US Spas Hit Record $20 Billion in Revenue!](https://www.soma.edu/news/us-spas-hit-record-20-billion-in-revenue/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [Oh, The Places You Can Work](https://www.soma.edu/news/oh-the-places-you-can-work/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [A Roadmap to Financial Aid: It’s Easier Than You Think](https://www.soma.edu/news/a-roadmap-to-financial-aid-its-easier-than-you-think/): By James  Cussen, Vice President at The Soma Institute
- [A Path to Starting Your Own Business](https://www.soma.edu/news/a-path-to-starting-your-own-business/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [The Value of Clinical Massage Therapists](https://www.soma.edu/news/the-value-of-clinical-massage-therapists/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [Watching Lives Change](https://www.soma.edu/news/watching-lives-change/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [How it All Started](https://www.soma.edu/news/how-it-all-started/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [The Chicago Marathon: Where Confidence Grows](https://www.soma.edu/news/the-chicago-marathon-where-confidence-grows/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [Sports Massage: A World of Opportunities](https://www.soma.edu/news/sports-massage-a-world-of-opportunities/): By Mike Hovi, Program Director at The Soma Institute
- [I’ve Been There: Soma’s Passion for Helping Students](https://www.soma.edu/news/ive-been-there-somas-passion-for-helping-students/): By Dee Smith, Instructor at The Soma Institute
- [Back-to-School Health and Wellness Tips and Recipe](https://www.soma.edu/news/back-to-school-health-and-wellness-tips-and-recipe/): By Monique Costello, Instructor at The Soma Institute
- [My Passion for Entrepreneurship](https://www.soma.edu/news/my-passion-for-entrepreneurship/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [Avoiding Injuries from Summer Activities](https://www.soma.edu/uncategorized/avoiding-injuries-from-summer-activities/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [Opportunity Knocks](https://www.soma.edu/news/opportunity-knocks/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [Resilience in the Year of COVID-19](https://www.soma.edu/uncategorized/resilience-in-the-year-of-covid-19/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [Veterans Day](https://www.soma.edu/news/veterans-day/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [The Powerful Desire to Help People Feel Better](https://www.soma.edu/news/the-powerful-desire-to-help-people-feel-better/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [Massage Gets Back to Business](https://www.soma.edu/news/massage-gets-back-to-business/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [Penny Chelios Realizes a Dream](https://www.soma.edu/news/penny-chelios-realizes-a-dream/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute
- [Can Clinical Massage Help with Nerve Injury?](https://www.soma.edu/news/clinical-massage-and-nerve-injury/): If you’ve ever felt a shooting, tingling sensation down your leg or quick, sharp pain after lifting something or playing sports, you likely have experienced a nerve injury. Often, the pain is just a temporary nuisance, but it can also be debilitating. Clinical massage therapy can often relieve pain caused by nerve injury.
- [Clinical Massage Therapy Alumni Spotlight: Ashley Smith](https://www.soma.edu/graduation/clinical-massage-therapy-alumni-spotlight-ashley-smith/): The SOMA Institute offers 11 month and 15 month Clinical Massage Therapy programs designed to accommodate busy schedules. In the 11 month program, students attend class 2 full days a week, while the 15 month students attend class all day on Saturday and one evening during the week. Students learn both wellness massage and more specific clinical techniques to improve range of motion, decrease pain, and improve posture. Massage therapy is a rewarding career and the SOMA Institute can help you achieve your goal of becoming a therapist that creates change in the world.
- [Keeton Phillips](https://www.soma.edu/uncategorized/keeton-phillips/): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ijSaiLk1pjU
- [Clinical Massage Tips with Mike Hovi](https://www.soma.edu/news/clinical-massage-therapy-tips-mike-hovi/): Program Director Mike Hovi gives some tips to Massage Therapists beginning their clinical massage program.
- [The American Massage Therapy Association’s $1000 Scholarship for 2018](https://www.soma.edu/uncategorized/the-american-massage-therapy-associations-1000-scholarship-for-2018/): One student from The Soma Institute will be selected to receive a $1000 scholarship in support of the next generation of massage therapists. Simply fill out the form below and turn it in to a Soma Institute faculty or staff member by May 29th, 2018. Prospective students please contact Stanley Kozik at stanleykozik@soma.edu with completed applications.
- [Benefits of Clinical Massage for Individuals Suffering from PTSD](https://www.soma.edu/uncategorized/benefits-of-clinical-massage-for-individuals-suffering-from-ptsd/): Clinical massage therapy can be an effective form of treatment and rehabilitation for many kinds of injuries, diseases and ailments. Clinical massage therapy is a kind of massage in which therapists use specific techniques to work on soft tissue in the body in order to strengthen those areas. This type of therapy is not only used to treat bodily injuries, but is also used increasingly frequently as part of treatment for people who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- [The Benefits of Career Services](https://www.soma.edu/massage-therapy-career/the-benefits-of-career-services/): Join Keeton Phillips as he details some of the many services the Soma Institute's Career Services can offer current students and alumni alike. In addition, the Soma Institute's employment page list curated listings to help current students and graduates alike in their job search.
- [Where Do Clinical Massage Therapists Work?](https://www.soma.edu/uncategorized/where-do-clinical-massage-therapists-work/): When you hear the term “clinical massage therapist,” you might very well think, “Oh, they’re a certified masseuse.” Not so fast!, Clinical massage therapists do much more than simply give massages to paying customers.
- [4 Myths About Pain, Pain Receptors and Pain Relief](https://www.soma.edu/news/4-myths-pain-pain-receptors-pain-relief/): If you’ve been alive for any amount of time (and if you’re reading this, you have been), you’ve felt physical pain at some point in your life. The sensations we know as pain are the results of nerves sending signals to our brains in response to various painful stimuli. Pain perception, which is also referred to as nociception, utilizes neural pathways specifically designed for pain (nociceptors) that spring into action as a reaction to the pain-inducing stimulus.
- [Kinesiology Tape: What It Is, How It Works and Why Use Is Growing](https://www.soma.edu/news/kinesiology-tape-works-use-growing/): You may have noticed college and professional athletes wearing tape, often bright in color, on their arms, legs and other extremities. That’s no ordinary medical tape they’re wearing. It is kinesiology tape, also referred to as kinesio tape, and it’s a light, elastic tape used for pain relief and other health benefits proponents believe it to have.
- [Massage Makes Me Happy Day](https://www.soma.edu/uncategorized/massage-makes-happy-day/): Mark your calendar-- March 20, 2018 is Massage Makes Me Happy Day! The MASSAGE MAKES ME HAPPY Initiative of the Global Wellness Institute aims to celebrate the healing powers of massage therapy and promote its benefits through research and education, advocacy and global awareness.
- [Soma Graduate Starts Her Own Business](https://www.soma.edu/uncategorized/soma-graduate-starts-business/):   When Melanie Wilkerson enrolled at The Soma Institute, in May of 2014, she was 42 years-old. She had spent the bulk of her adult life, at that point, working in hospitality and was ready for a change. As fate would have it, she was scrolling through Facebook when she happened upon a post made by someone looking thire a licensed massage therapist. Melanie had always had an interest in massage and began to look into schools in order to pursue this interest. Fast-forward one year later and Melanie is graduating from Soma, and has been placed on the President's Honors List. Move ahead one more year and Melanie is opening her own business, Renew Clinical Massage and Reflexology. Today, Melanie is still running her office where she has even been able to hire some fellow Soma Alumni. She loves being her own boss and being able to create the sort of work environment that is meaningful to her. If you ask her how she was able to create her own successful business so quickly, she will cite the entrepreneurial mentality she has had as long as she can remember. She will also reference the disciplined, hard-working approach she brought to her study of clinical massage therapy both inside and outside the classroom. Giving free massages during her formal education was important, not just for her to build a clientele, but also for practicing the principles she was learning at school. Finally, not to be overlooked is her time at Soma. For Melanie, the clinical perspective that is the cornerstone of The Soma Institute's approach to massage therapy is especially important, even in a spa setting. The in depth clinical knowledge she gained from Soma has allowed her to meet not just her client's wants, but also their needs. The support she received from her instructors was also highly influential. She took the initiative to reach out to faculty and ask questions about what she was encountering in her free massages, and they were more than happy to answer these questions and help make connections to things learned in the classroom. As a result of her tenacious approach to her own growth as a therapist, and the guidance of Soma's faculty and curriculum, Melanie was able to leave school with the tools necessary to provide clients with exceptional treatment, build her brand, and become her own boss.  
- [Trying the Feldenkrais Method for Chronic Pain](https://www.soma.edu/uncategorized/trying-feldenkrais-method-chronic-pain/): from the NY Times:
- [Navigating the Path to Wellness With Massage Therapy](https://www.soma.edu/uncategorized/navigating-path-wellness-massage-therapy/): from the AMTA:
- [ROCK YOUR RETAIL: KINESIOLOGY TAPE FOR CLIENT SELF-CARE](https://www.soma.edu/uncategorized/rock-retail-kinesiology-tape-client-self-care/): from Massage Magazine:
- [Soma Massages at the Chicago Marathon](https://www.soma.edu/uncategorized/soma-massages-chicago-marathon/): Every year it happens.
- [What is Lady Gaga’s Chronic Pain? Fibromyalgia Explained](https://www.soma.edu/uncategorized/lady-gagas-chronic-pain-fibromyalgia-explained/): from Billboard
- [Where pain lives](https://www.soma.edu/uncategorized/where-pain-lives/): from AEON:
- [$5.7 MILLION ALLOCATED TO STUDY HOLISTIC THERAPIES AS ALTERNATIVE TO OPIOIDS](https://www.soma.edu/uncategorized/5-7-million-allocated-study-holistic-therapies-alternative-opioids/): from Massage Magazine:
- [Less Talk, More Therapy](https://www.soma.edu/uncategorized/less-talk-therapy/): from the NY Times:
- [Want A Reason To Get A Massage? We Have Fifty.](https://www.soma.edu/uncategorized/want-reason-get-massage-fifty/): from www.longevitylive.com:
- [Is massage good for you, or does it just feel nice?](https://www.soma.edu/uncategorized/massage-good-just-feel-nice/): from www.cnn.com:
- [The Mind-Body Benefits of Getting a Massage](https://www.soma.edu/uncategorized/mind-body-benefits-getting-massage/): from www.shape.com:
- [When Sports Injuries Lead to Arthritis in Joints](https://www.soma.edu/uncategorized/sports-injuries-lead-arthritis-joints/): from the NY Times:
- [Rolfing: The technique that may help treat injuries, pain, bad posture or muscle tension](https://www.soma.edu/uncategorized/rolfing-technique-may-help-treat-injuries-pain-bad-posture-muscle-tension/): from Netdoctor:
- [Legit, Science-Backed Ways a Sports Massage Can Improve Your Workout](https://www.soma.edu/uncategorized/legit-science-backed-ways-sports-massage-can-improve-workout/): from Shape:
- [HOW TO MAKE IT AS A PRO SPORTS MASSAGE THERAPIST](https://www.soma.edu/uncategorized/make-pro-sports-massage-therapist/): From Massage Magazine, by BJ Dowlen:

## Pages
- [Accessibility Statement](https://www.soma.edu/accessibility-statement/): The Soma Institute is committed to creating an accessible and meaningful online user experience for people with disabilities. We engage in efforts necessary to meet online usability and web page design requirements recommended by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) in its Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.0. These standards are currently being applied to improve the accessibility of our website. We use software tools to regularly test and evaluate the accessibility of our website and to make improvements by partnering with National Compliance Group. The Soma Institute accepts calls from relay services. Please call us at 312-939-2723. You may also request any modifications to our policies, practices and procedures. Please contact us at 312-939-2723.
- [Sexual Violence Prevention Policy](https://www.soma.edu/sexual-violence-prevention-policy/): The Soma Institute is committed to creating and sustaining an environment conducive to learning and working in which each student has the opportunity to grow, develop, learn, and contribute fully to our collective success.
- [Thank You – MBLEx Payment Request](https://www.soma.edu/thank-you-mblex-payment-request/):  
- [Thank You – Placement Progress](https://www.soma.edu/thank-you-placement-progress/):  
- [Thank You – Continuing Education](https://www.soma.edu/thank-you-continuing-education/):  
- [Title IX & Clery Act Training Material](https://www.soma.edu/student-resources/title-ix-clery-act-training-material/): Click Here to view the Title IX and Clery Act Training PDF
- [Latino Caucus Foundation Scholarships for Massage Therapy Students](https://www.soma.edu/scholarships/): Latino Caucus Foundation Scholarships for Massage Therapy Students Financial Support Opportunities Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus Foundation Scholarship ILLCF Scholarship Notification Form Is a Rewarding Career in Massage Therapy Right For You? Get More Info… If you're interested in learning more about careers in Massage Therapy and exploring whether the Soma Institute is right for you, fill out the form on this page to receive more information. For immediate questions, call 312-939-2723. Get Info!
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- [Employment Opportunities](https://www.soma.edu/employment-opportunities/): The 600 clock-hour Clinical Massage Therapy Diploma prepares you for the career of your choice within the massage therapy field, offering diverse massage employment opportunities, from wellness massage at spas and resorts, to medical massage affiliated with hospitals and clinics, to sports massage for professional teams. Many Soma graduates have established their own thriving private practices and businesses. Get in contact with our team at The Soma Institute today to get more information.
- [Sports Massage Certificate](https://www.soma.edu/sports-massage-certification/): Sports Massage encompasses a broad scope, from rehabilitation to improving flexibility. This specialized field of massage therapy plays a vital role in addressing orthopedic and movement issues in athletes. By targeting soft muscle tissues, Sports Massage helps reduce inflammation, promote recovery, and enhance the client’s overall performance.
- [Starting and Growing your Massage Therapy Business](https://www.soma.edu/articles/starting-and-growing-your-massage-therapy-business/): By Joan Hannant, Founder & CEO of The Soma Institute 
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- [Massage Therapy in Times of Illness: USA Today](https://www.soma.edu/articles/massage-therapy-times-illness-usa-today/): Massage therapy has shown to have a profound impact on the body’s chemistry during times of illness, according to USA Today. With numerous studies boasting the health benefits of massage, people are increasingly engaging in massage therapy for medical purposes. Besides aiding in the circulation of oxygen and other nutrients in the body, massage therapy helps relieve stress and works with the myofascial aspects of the body helping to facilitate greater mobility.
- [Mayo Clinic: Massage Beneficial to Health](https://www.soma.edu/articles/mayo-clinic-massage-beneficial-health/): From Swedish massage and trigger point therapy, to myofascial and sports massage, massage therapy has gained recognition as the leading complementary and alternative treatment for a large variety of medical conditions. According to The Mayo Clinic, massage has proven to reduce symptoms of anxiety; improve digestive disorders; minimize pain from chronic conditions; reduce stubborn insomnia; improve soft tissue injuries, and much more.
- [Massage Therapy as an Alternative to Opioids](https://www.soma.edu/articles/massage-therapy-alternative-opioids-2/): Reports released by the Centers for Disease Control show that deaths from prescribed opioids—such as hydrocodone, oxycodone, and methadone—have more than quadrupled since 1999. These opioids carry significant risk of abuse, addiction, and overdose—even when taken as directed. As a result, health organizations across the country have been looking at alternative ways to manage pain—specifically with various forms of massage therapy.
- [Massage Therapy: Biological Changes](https://www.soma.edu/articles/massage-therapy-biological-changes/): We are all aware that massage feels good. But now there is evidence that it also causes profound biological changes. According to a Cedars Sinai Medical Center study on the effects of deep tissue massage therapy, a 45-minute single massage session increased circulating lymphocytes which defend the body against disease, as well as significantly decreased the primary stress hormone cortisol.
- [Massage Therapy: Healing Affects for Athletes](https://www.soma.edu/articles/massage-therapy-healing-affects-athletes/): Athletes who push themselves to the limit of their endurance, often find themselves either injured or exercised to exhaustion. With injury comes inflammation and pain which can severely impact an athlete’s training regimen. A study by the Buck Institute for Research on Aging found that just a 10-minute massage reduced the production of cytokines in athletes which play a significant role in inflammation. In addition, a short massage was shown to stimulate mitochondria—a critical piece of cell function and repair.
- [Massage Therapy Professionals: Overwhelmingly Satisfied](https://www.soma.edu/articles/massage-therapy-professionals-overwhelmingly-satisfied/): The Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards released their findings from the 2017 Job Task Analysis—a comprehensive survey conducted among thousands of massage therapy professionals currently in the job market. The results of the survey indicate that massage practitioners are overwhelmingly satisfied with their profession as massage therapists.
- [The New Yorker: Power of Touch](https://www.soma.edu/articles/new-yorker-power-touch/): One of the very first senses to develop in infants is touch – and it remains one of the most emotionally charged senses throughout a person’s life. As such, it’s no surprise that research continues to uncover the many powers of touch and its far-reaching effects on the human body and mind. From boosting the immune system to improving cognitive abilities in adults, massage therapy has been shown to benefit many facets of physical and emotional health.
- [The Benefits of Pediatric Massage Therapy](https://www.soma.edu/articles/benefits-pediatric-massage-therapy/): More and more hospitals are offering massage therapy as a complementary treatment for a variety of medical conditions—including pediatric issues. Children often experience fear and anxiety surrounding medical procedures, creating stress and other unwanted side effects related to their illness. Studies show that healthy pediatric touch within the medical system can help build children’s trust and improve their quality of life.
- [Massage Makes Me Happy Initiative](https://www.soma.edu/articles/massage-makes-happy-initiative/): Hundreds of cultures around the world have relied on the tradition of touch for healing. Early Chinese medicine used massage therapy for a variety of healing remedies because massage was considered to create happiness. In keeping with this tradition, the Global Wellness Institute has created the Massage Makes Me Happy Initiative to celebrate the healing powers of massage therapy.
- [Top 5 Benefits of Massage Therapy for Patients in Medical Recovery](https://www.soma.edu/articles/top-5-benefits-massage-therapy-patients-medical-recovery/): Medical treatments have varying side effects from person to person, inevitably leaving patients depleted and desperate for relief. The medical community has reported massage therapy as an effective complementary treatment for patients in recovery from surgical or other medical procedures. Some of the benefits of massage therapy for patients include the following:
- [3 Tips to Growing Your Massage Practice](https://www.soma.edu/articles/3-tips-growing-massage-practice/): Creating your own business is an exciting venture—but maintaining its success can be more daunting than originally imagined. The American Massage Therapy Association has put together some tips for those wishing to boost their massage therapy practice.
- [Oncology Massage Benefits](https://www.soma.edu/articles/oncology-massage-benefits/): According to the American Cancer Society, half of all men and one-third of all women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetimes. Besides the devastating news a cancer diagnosis brings, it also brings a variety of side effects for those patients undergoing treatments like chemotherapy.
- [Massage: Improving Quality of Life](https://www.soma.edu/articles/massage-improving-quality-life/): As we age, we unfortunately become familiar with a myriad of health ailments otherwise unknown. Whether it’s arthritis, Alzheimer’s or heart disease, sometimes age brings unforeseen health issues. Fortunately for older adults, research shows that regular massage therapy can help seniors improve symptoms related to these health issues and discover a better quality of life.
- [The Soma Institute: A Career in Massage Therapy](https://www.soma.edu/articles/soma-institute-career-massage-therapy/): The Soma Institute in Chicago offers one of the most comprehensive massage therapy training programs in the country. As a leader in massage therapy education for decades, Soma is continually fine tuning their massage therapy programs to set students and graduates up for success. The Clinical Massage Therapy diploma program prepares students for careers as professional massage therapists—giving them the tools they need to seamlessly enter the rapidly growing industry of massage therapy.
- [The Top Health Care Support Jobs: Massage Therapy](https://www.soma.edu/articles/top-health-care-support-jobs-massage-therapy/): For those looking for a career helping others, massage therapy is a promising option. According to U.S. News and World Report, the career of massage therapy is the number five best healthcare support job in 2018. Some of the factors the report considered in compiling their data include:
- [Massage Therapy Education Requirements](https://www.soma.edu/articles/massage-therapy-education-requirements/): Education programs for massage therapists are typically found in postsecondary institutions with a requirement of a high school diploma to enroll. Typical programs include both hands-on practice and classroom study of massage techniques. Each state requires a different number of hours of study required to receive a certification or license to practice—this can range anywhere from 500 to 750 hours.
- [Why Do Become a Massage Therapist? It’s A Career Helping Others](https://www.soma.edu/articles/career-helping-others-massage-therapy/): Many people spend their lives looking for a rewarding and inspiring career—a career that allows them to help people in a meaningful way. One of the reasons why people become massage therapists is to have an occupation that offers its practitioners a way to express their values both personally and professionally. The massage therapy profession has grown in recent years because of the rewarding nature of the work.
- [Mayo Clinic: Massage’s Many Benefits](https://www.soma.edu/articles/mayo-clinic-massages-many-benefits/): There are many benefits of massage therapy. As a complementary or alternative component to healthcare, it can be a powerful tool to increase health and wellness, as well as to treat a wide range of medical conditions.
- [The Soma Cares Initiative: A Model for Student Support & Success](https://www.soma.edu/soma-cares-initiative-model-student-support-success/): The Soma Institute in Chicago is committed to the personal and professional growth of its students. The renowned education center is continually promoting innovative ways to support students in their journey towards becoming professional massage therapists. In this effort, Soma has created a culture of care with the Soma Cares workshop—an initiative aimed at increasing graduation rates and retention through teacher/student support.
- [Duties of a Massage Therapist](https://www.soma.edu/articles/duties-massage-therapist/): A career as a massage therapist entails using a variety of methods to treat clients through touch. By manipulating muscles and other soft tissues, massage therapists can relieve pain in their clients, improve circulation, increase relaxation, and aid in overall wellness. Clinical massage therapists talk with their clients about their physical issues and what they hope to achieve through massage.
- [The Wall Street Journal: Massage as Medicine](https://www.soma.edu/articles/wall-street-journal-massage-medicine/): A recent report released by The Wall Street Journal found that massage therapy has a large number of health benefits. Besides the assumed positive aspects of massage therapy like relaxation and stress-reduction, the study reported a variety of specific health-related benefits. These include reducing asthma in children; lowering pain associated to osteoarthritis; boosting the immune function in breast cancer patients; and lowering levels of cortisol and inflammation in a variety of other health-related situations.
- [The Effectiveness of Massage Therapy](https://www.soma.edu/articles/effectiveness-of-massage-therapy/): According to the American Massage Therapy Association, massage therapy is being used as a non-pharmacologic approach to pain relief. Studies reveal that massage therapy can ease a variety of types of pain. In addition to improving pain, massage has shown beneficial results in improving fatigue, quality of life, and symptom management.
- [Soma Cares](https://www.soma.edu/life-at-soma/soma-cares/): If you’re interested in learning more about careers in Massage Therapy and exploring whether the Soma Institute is right for you, fill out the form on this page to receive more information.
- [Top 10 Reasons to Become a Massage Therapist](https://www.soma.edu/articles/top-10-reasons-become-massage-therapist/): When you’re passionate about what you do, it doesn’t feel like work. Your positive energy comes through in everything you do. For those considering a career as a massage therapist, a desire to help others is usually at the core of their motives. Professional massage therapy is considered one of the most rewarding careers today.
- [Massage Therapy School in Chicago](https://www.soma.edu/articles/massage-therapy-school-chicago/): The Soma Institute in Chicago, Illinois is leading the charge in training massage therapy as an alternative and complementary method of healthcare. Massage therapy is being increasingly used to treat a myriad of ailments, including chronic headaches, sleep problems, and anxiety. Because it is safe and has no adverse effects, massage can also provide its patients relief from pain and anxiety associated with surgery.
- [Facts about Massage Therapy](https://www.soma.edu/articles/facts-massage-therapy/): The American Massage Therapy Association has compiled some national career statistics for aspiring massage therapists. Armed with these facts, massage therapy students can feel more prepared for their future career. Nationally, the number of massage therapists has increased as people turn to alternative and complementary modes of healthcare.
- [Massage Therapist Career Change](https://www.soma.edu/articles/massage-therapist-career-change/): With a new year comes new resolutions. This is the time many people resolve to make big changes in their lives. Taking the initiative to make a bold change is often scary—but almost always rewarding, especially if it involves a career change. If you’ve been feeling trapped or unhappy at your job, every day is a new opportunity to make a change.
- [How to Write a Business Plan – Massage Therapy Business](https://www.soma.edu/write-business-plan-massage-therapy-business/): Successful businesses don't happen overnight. They are created through careful and prudent planning. Writing a thorough and succinct business plan is your first effort towards a successful venture. If you're embarking on a career as a massage therapist and want to go into business on your own, we've put together some recommendations from the Small Business Administration's Web site on how best to compose your business plan.
- [Six Tips to Starting Your Own Massage Therapy Business](https://www.soma.edu/articles/six-tips-starting-massage-therapy-business/): One of the many benefits of choosing a career as a massage therapist is the freedom to define your own practice however you choose. Massage therapists can truly design their business to suit their specific goals and preferences. But starting your own business is never easy; there are many things to consider. If you are ready to venture out on your own, read-on for six tips to becoming your own boss.
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- [CNN: Massage Therapy Complements Western Medicine](https://www.soma.edu/articles/cnn-massage-therapy-complements-western-medicine/): An interesting new article published by CNN Travel aggregates the already-existing research of a variety of publications regarding complementary and alternative medical modalities and their effectiveness. Contrary to common assumptions, conventional Western medicine doesn’t always win-out in clinical evidence. Covering a wide range of alternative methods of care, the article mentions massage therapy more than any other modality.
- [Making a Difference with Massage Therapy](https://www.soma.edu/articles/making-difference-massage-therapy/): Massage therapy is considered one of the oldest healing arts in the world. It dates all the way back to 2700 BC as an ancient traditional Chinese therapeutic technique. Today, massage therapy has become a mainstay within the medical community. It is employed throughout the health care system—in private clinics, hospitals, nursing homes, and more. The National Institutes of Health identifies massage therapy as a highly respected and highly effective complementary and alternative sector of the health care community.
- [Helping Others: A Career in Massage Therapy](https://www.soma.edu/articles/helping-others-career-massage-therapy/): Many people yearn for a career path that allows them to help people in a meaningful way. A career in massage therapy is one occupation that offers its practitioners an opportunity to express their values in a way that is both personally and professionally rewarding. Massage therapists often comment that they feel fortunate to have found work that they love, in a career that allows them to help others in a variety of holistic ways.
- [Pediatric Massage](https://www.soma.edu/articles/pediatric-massage/): Touch is one of the very first senses that humans develop and is widely known to be essential to our physical and emotional health. This is especially true in children, including infants. Although massage therapy has been previously considered a treatment for adults only, it is now gaining steam as an alternative or complementary pediatric treatment for a variety of medical issues. Massage therapy has shown to boost the immune system and stimulate brain function in infants. For toddlers, massage therapy can relieve stress, improve sleep, and has shown to provide a sense of relaxation.
- [Sports Massage](https://www.soma.edu/articles/sports-massage-3/): Massage therapy is making significant headway in the area of preventative medicine specifically for athletes looking to minimize their chances of injury during training and performance. The promising research, conducted by McMaster University, reported that sports massage therapy performed after intense physical workout causes the muscles to grow new mitochondria—the part of our body’s cells that convert nutrients into energy. And for athletes, energy is crucial to avoiding injuries.
- [Massage for Seniors](https://www.soma.edu/articles/massage-for-seniors/): The number of people aged 65 or older is expected to double within the next ten years according to the National Center for Health Statistics. This leaves a large population particularly susceptible to illness and injury. And as the number of seniors grows, so, too, does the amount of research attesting to the potential benefits of massage therapy and how it can specifically help with some of the unpleasant side effects of aging.
- [Top 24 Reasons to Get a Massage](https://www.soma.edu/articles/top-24-reasons-get-massage/): A growing body of research touts the many positive effects of massage therapy. These include benefits on health conditions like stress, chronic low-back pain, fibromyalgia, and more. These studies have prompted the medical community to take notice and recommend massage therapy as an initial treatment in hopes of avoiding more invasive or pharmaceutical treatments.
- [Massage and Migraine](https://www.soma.edu/articles/massage-and-migraine/): For migraine sufferers searching for alternative options to treat their pain, a recent study by Montefiore Headache Center in New York suggests massage therapy—along with other healthy habits—as an effective treatment. The efficacy of massage therapy for migraines gives hope to patients looking to avoid pharmaceutical options.
- [Massage Therapy Equals A Healthy Habit for Summer](https://www.soma.edu/articles/massage-therapy-equals-healthy-habit-summer/): The American Massage Therapy Association recently published suggestions for creating healthy habits for the summer. It’s a great time to take advantage of the longer days and integrate life affirming habits into your routine. AMTA has three main suggestions for this summer: spend more time outdoors being physically active; turn to fresh produce at your local farmers’ market; and schedule a massage to keep your body feeling its best.
- [Integrative Medicine is Changing Healthcare](https://www.soma.edu/articles/integrative-medicine-changing-healthcare/): Complementary and alternative health-related treatments encourage the natural healing of the body without the use of pharmaceuticals. One such treatment often touted as an effective alternative treatment to countless ailments including pain is massage therapy. Massage increases endorphins and serotonin—the same chemicals that mimic painkillers and mood regulators. The National Institutes of Health reports that about 18 million Americans receive massage therapy each year. Massage therapists continue to be one of the most accessible and cost-effective alternative health care solutions.
- [Massage Beneficial for Marathon Runners](https://www.soma.edu/articles/massage-beneficial-marathon-runners/): Hitting the pavement for intense training in preparation for a big race can wreak havoc on your body. To help reduce pain and discomfort while also aiding in recovery time, research supports incorporating massage therapy into your training regimen. For anyone engaged in physical training—not just marathon runners—deep tissue massage can be key to injury prevention.
- [Massage Therapy – Antidote for Pain](https://www.soma.edu/articles/massage-therapy-antidote-pain/): Research suggests that massage therapy is uniquely positioned to help alleviate pain in patients. A meta-analysis study on massage therapy for pain directed by the Samueli Institute found that massage significantly improved pain, anxiety, and other health-related quality of life issues. Massage therapy was also effective for reducing the severity of pain in patients undergoing surgery.
- [Massage Therapy: Fills the Gap](https://www.soma.edu/articles/massage-therapy-fills-gap/): Population growth and the expansion of insurance due to health care reform will be major contributing factors to the shortage of primary care physicians over the coming decade. According to the Manhattan Institute for Policy research, that shortage is predicted to be about 30,000 U.S. practicing physicians. Rise in chronic conditions, demand for pain relief, and overuse of pharmaceuticals and prescription medications are also some of the main reasons for this trend, as well as the baby boomer population.
- [Massage Therapy in Hospitals](https://www.soma.edu/articles/massage-therapy-hospitals/): With the rise in popularity of complementary and alternative medical practices, as well as cutbacks for health-related funding, there is a tremendous growth in the demand for massage therapy. One setting that has seen a surge in massage therapy hiring is in hospitals. It is being used for many of the same reasons people seek out massage in customary settings: stress reduction, anxiety, and relief from a huge variety of physical ailments.
- [The National Shortage of Massage Therapists & The Rising Demand in The Industry](https://www.soma.edu/articles/massage-therapists-national-shortage/): Like many professions, massage therapists have benefited from a strong economy. However, the growing demand for these professionals has left a national shortage of trained massage therapists. There simply aren’t enough qualified massage practitioners to fill the available jobs across the country. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts the demand for massage therapists will grow even more—by 23 percent—just within the next five years.
- [Touch and Massage for the Family](https://www.soma.edu/articles/touch-massage-family/): The healing powers of touch for people in crisis—whether emotionally or physically—has been evidenced by countless studies. The Arizona based nonprofit, Integrative Touch for Kids (ITK), along with Banner Children’s Hospital in Tucson, Arizona, is dedicated to an integrative approach to healing, which includes massage therapy as its cornerstone.
- [Why Sports Massage for Athletes is Important](https://www.soma.edu/articles/athletic-massage-therapy-athletes/): Sports massage therapy has grown into a popular specialization within the massage therapy profession. The goal of the sports massage therapist is to contribute to the overall health and physical maintenance of an athlete, by using critical thinking to apply specific techniques to achieve the best results. Sports massage is important because it focuses on event preparation, injury prevention and treatment, and recovery.
- [Massage Therapy: Alternative to Opioids](https://www.soma.edu/articles/massage-therapy-alternative-opioids/): Deaths and overdoses from prescription opioids—like oxycodone and hydrocodone—have quadrupled since 1999 according to the Centers for Disease Control. These drugs are often prescribed by doctors following surgery or illness, but they carry real risk of overdose, addiction and abuse. With these alarming statistics, many health organizations are seriously considering other methods to manage pain.
- [Sports Massage for Athletes of All Kinds](https://www.soma.edu/articles/sports-massage-athletes-kinds/): Most professional athletic teams keep massage therapists on payroll as staff members to regularly treat their star athletes. Coaches and experts recognize the conclusive evidence that massage therapy has a variety of positive effects on the human body. According to the American Massage Therapy Association, massage therapy can improve athletic performance, prevent injury, reduce pain, and often shorten recovery time after an injury. Massage therapy encourages blood vessels to dilate, helping to promote circulation. This fresh oxygen is delivered throughout the body and promotes the removal of toxins.
- [Stress Awareness Month: Turn to Massage Therapy](https://www.soma.edu/articles/stress-awareness-month-turn-massage-therapy/): With only a couple weeks left of April, take time to recognize and make the most of Stress Awareness Month. Every April for the past 25 years, thousands have celebrated and promoted effective techniques for relieving stress. If left unchecked, stress can lead to health problems ranging from depression and malaise, to life threatening illnesses like heart attacks and cancer.
- [Veteran Massage Therapy](https://www.soma.edu/articles/veteran-massage-therapy/): Veteran massage therapy is a growing field among massage therapists looking to serve veterans in this unique and rewarding way. Our country’s veterans spend years risking their physical and emotional health for our general safety. Specializing in massage therapy for veterans can be a rewarding career opportunity for aspiring massage therapists eager to find a niche for themselves.
- [Give Mom the Gift of Massage this Mother’s Day](https://www.soma.edu/articles/give-mom-gift-massage-mothers-day/): Mother’s Day is just around the corner. This year, why not give mom the gift of health and wellness? Massage therapy is a unique and perfect gift for mothers of all ages. According to a 2016 consumer survey conducted by The American Massage Therapy Association, 54% of physicians recommend massage therapy as beneficial to health and wellness.
- [Massage: Treatment for Back Pain](https://www.soma.edu/articles/massage-treatment-back-pain/): Try massage before pills. That’s the suggestion from The American College of Physicians released in a recent medical study. The study included new guidelines for patients suffering from acute or chronic lower back pain. One recommendation: take prescription drugs only as a last resort; before anything, they suggest, try alternative approaches like massage therapy.
- [Athletes Turn to Massage Therapy](https://www.soma.edu/articles/athletes-turn-massage-therapy/): Athletes at any level can testify to the positive effects of sports massage therapy when it comes to pain reduction and recovery time—especially after intensive exercise. Now there’s scientific evidence to back it up. A study conducted by The Buck Institute for Research on Aging found that massage therapy reduced inflammation—which is often a precursor to pain—and aided in cell function and repair. In addition, the study found that the reduced pain associated with sports massage therapy involved the same mechanism targeted in conventional anti-inflammatory pharmaceutical drugs.a
- [homebak](https://www.soma.edu/homebak/): Are you looking for a career where you can help others?
- [Employment Opportunities at Soma](https://www.soma.edu/employment-opportunities-soma/): Located in the vibrant heart of downtown Chicago, The Soma Institute offers a Diploma in Clinical Massage Therapy. Soma provides a nationally-accredited education, built upon a combination of theory and practice, which is tested through internships and externships.
- [Deep Tissue & Trigger Point Massage: Great for Runners](https://www.soma.edu/deep-tissue-trigger-point-massage-great-runners/): If you’re confused about the varying types of massage therapy programs - you’re not alone. There are so many massage modalities it often leaves the client feeling overwhelmed with choices. You’ve probably heard that massage therapy is great for athletes, but what kind of massage therapy? Many types of sports massage are beneficial to athletes: massage can speed recovery from strenuous athletic training; reduce muscle soreness after exercise; and facilitate injury healing. However, two of the main massage types many athletes turn to specifically include deep tissue and trigger point massage therapy in Chicago.
- [Discover Clinical Massage Therapy at The Soma Institute](https://www.soma.edu/articles/discover-clinical-massage-therapy-soma-institute/): The career of massage therapist has gained traction in the wellness industry as more and more medical professionals turn to massage as a complement to traditional health care. The Soma Institute is committed to the healing arts profession and to promoting innovation and excellence in massage therapy. Specializing in Clinical Massage therapy, Soma trains students to focus on both the evaluation and the treatment of soft tissue dysfunction while rehabilitating physical function of the massage client.
- [Runners Turn to Sports Massage Therapy](https://www.soma.edu/articles/runners-turn-sports-massage-therapy/): Athletes of every kind and every level have discovered the benefits of sports massage therapy. The specific type of sports massage is typically geared towards the athlete’s sport of choice. Avid runners seem to be at the forefront of these athletes—turning to sports massage in order to focus on areas of the body that are stressed and overused from the repetitive and often aggressive movements associated with running. Used as a component in a balanced training regimen, sports massage therapy has gained significant popularity with these runners.
- [Massage Therapy Beneficial for Cancer Patients](https://www.soma.edu/articles/massage-therapy-beneficial-cancer-patients/): Pain is the number one symptom associated with patients suffering from cancer. According to a 2007 meta-analysis, the prevalence of pain was found in about 59% of patients undergoing cancer treatment. Several studies have released findings that massage therapy shows huge promise for reducing pain, fatigue, and anxiety related to cancer. These studies suggest patients should consider clinical massage therapy programs as a real therapeutic option to help manage their cancer-associated pain. Additionally, these studies convey that cancer pain has not adequately been addressed by the current healthcare system and that other alternative methods, like sports massage therapy, need to be further explored. Cancer pain can range from mild to acute—often affecting a patient’s emotional and social wellness by negatively impacting their quality of daily life. The Soma Institute has long been at the forefront of the alternative treatment philosophy and a leader in massage therapy education. Soma trains students in a wide range of therapeutic techniques including sports massage, trigger point therapy, myofascial release, hydrotherapy, lymphatic drainage, and more. Find out more about clinical massage therapy training at the Soma Institute by calling today. Give them a call at? 1-800-694-5314.
- [Massage & PTSD](https://www.soma.edu/articles/massage-ptsd/): Roughly 24 million people are afflicted with post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD. The disorder typically develops in people who have experienced a shocking or dangerous event, often combat related or violent abuse. Although nearly everyone has experienced trauma at some point in their lives, for PTSD sufferers, their reactions to the trauma continue over time rather than resolving naturally. These people often feel stressed even when they aren’t in danger.
- [Massage Therapy Beneficial for Caregiver Stress Syndrome](https://www.soma.edu/articles/massage-therapy-beneficial-caregiver-stress-syndrome/): Caregivers are among the most stressed groups in the country. Also known as caregiver stress syndrome, the condition can feel every bit as debilitating as other serious conditions. One of the most common caregiving groups afflicted by the condition is nurses. Registered nurses—who are often on their feet for 12 hours at a time in full care-giving mode—often complain of headaches, shoulder tension, insomnia, and muscle and joint pain.
- [Massage Therapy: Treatment for Chronic Back Pain](https://www.soma.edu/articles/massage-therapy-treatment-chronic-back-pain/): Chronic low back pain is one of the most common neurological ailments in the U.S., and a growing number of studies support massage therapy as the preferred approach to treatment. The American Massage Therapy Association recently reported that massage therapy can be beneficial to patients suffering from low back pain as well as other types of pain. In addition, new guidelines released by the American College of Physicians conducted an extensive study and found massage therapy to be the favored choice in treatment.
- [The Soma Institute: Massage Therapy Professionals](https://www.soma.edu/articles/soma-institute-massage-therapy-professionals/): Have you considered a career in massage therapy but don’t know where to start? Don’t let your fear of the unknown get in the way of embarking on a life-changing experience. The Soma Institute in downtown Chicago offers an 11 and 15-month Clinical Massage Therapy program designed to train students in all the fundamentals of massage therapy. And there is no better time to join this community. The number of massage therapists has grown significantly in recent years as it has become more recognized as a complement to healthcare treatments.
- [Sports Massage Therapy](https://www.soma.edu/articles/sports-massage-therapy/): Elite professional athletes have long relied on massage therapy in upping their game on the track or field. But athletes of all levels can receive benefits from regular sports massage therapy. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends adults of all fitness levels should get at least 150 minutes of regular exercise per week. And, as adults age, exercise can become more taxing on the body; that’s where massage therapy comes in.
- [Life at The Soma Institute](https://www.soma.edu/articles/life-soma-institute/): Situated in heart of the third-largest city in the U.S., The Soma Institute has become a haven for students and professionals in downtown Chicago. The academic and cultural corridor of the central Loop neighborhood proves ideal for immersion into both educational and business pursuits. Besides the shores of Lake Michigan, Chicago is full of museums, aquariums, planetariums, and more—all just miles from Soma’s campus.
- [Efficacy of Massage Therapy for Pain](https://www.soma.edu/articles/efficacy-massage-therapy-pain/): Massage therapy is being used as a non-pharmacologic approach to pain relief specifically for patients suffering from MS. According to the American Massage Therapy Association, massage therapy can ease a variety of types of pain associated with Multiple Sclerosis when used over a six week period.
- [Pain Perception & Management](https://www.soma.edu/articles/pain-perception-management/): Traditional treatments for pain do not always adequately address a patient’s need – and sometimes these treatments can create additional problems such as drug dependency. New evidence points to complementary approaches to pain management as being just as effective in alleviating patients’ pain. Scientists at the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health are looking at how factors like emotion, environment and genetics play a role in processing pain. In addition, how addressing pain with non-drug treatments such as yoga, meditation, and massage therapy are becoming just as effective.

## Job Postings
- [Position 445](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-445/): Location: Geneva, IL. 60134.
- [Position 444](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-444/): Location: Inverness, IL. 60056
- [Position 443](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-443/): Location: Frankfort, IL. 60423.
- [Position 442](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-442/): Location: Western Springs, IL. 60558.
- [Position 441](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-441/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60639.
- [Position 440](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-440/): Location: Evanston, IL. 60201.
- [Position 439](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-439/): Location: Summit, IL. 60501
- [Position 438](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-438/): Location: Oak Brook, IL. 60523.
- [Position 437](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-437/): Location: Naperville, IL. 60565.
- [Position 435](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-435/): Location: Oak Park, IL. 60301.
- [Position 434](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-434/): Location: Chicago, IL 60657
- [Position 433](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-433/): Location: Northbrook, IL. 60062.
- [Position 432](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-432/): Location:  Orland Park, IL. 60462.
- [Position 431](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-431/): Location:  Chicago, IL. 60647.
- [Position 430](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-430/): Location: Lake Geneva, WI. 53147
- [Position 429](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-429/): Location: Willowbrook, IL. 60527
- [Position 428](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-428/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60615.
- [Position 427](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-427/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60626
- [Position 426](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-426/): Location: Oak Park, IL. 60302.
- [Position 425](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-425/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60603.
- [Position 424](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-424/): Location: Champaign, IL. 61820.
- [Position 423](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-423/): Location: Arlington Heights, IL. 60008
- [Position 422](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-422/): Location: Palos Height, IL. 60463
- [Position 421](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-421/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60655
- [Position 420](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-420/): Location: Whiting, IN. 46394.
- [Position 419](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-419/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60611.
- [Position 418](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-418/): Location: Hinsdale, IL. 60521.
- [Position 417](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-417/): Location Name: Evanston, IL. 60201.
- [Position 416](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-416/): Location: Arlington Height, IL. 60005
- [Position 415](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-415/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60604.
- [Position 414](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-414/): Location: Park Ridge, IL. 60068
- [Position 413](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-413/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60605.
- [Position 412](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-412/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60607.
- [Position 411](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-411/): Location: Lindenhurst, IL. 60046.
- [Position 410](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-410/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60654.
- [Position 409](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-409/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60613.
- [Position 408](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-408/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60613.  Chicago, IL. 60614.
- [Position 405](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-405/): Location: Lincolnwood, IL. 60712.
- [Position 404](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-404/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60602.
- [Position 403](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-403/): Location: Chicago, IL.
- [Position 402](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-402/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60661.
- [Position 401](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-401/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60613
- [Position 400](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-400/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60607
- [Position 399](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-399/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60611
- [Position 398](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-398/): Location: Libertyville, IL. 60048
- [Position 397](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-397/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60602.
- [Position 396](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-396/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60604
- [Position 395](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-395/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60618
- [Position 392](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-392/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60654
- [Position 390](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-390/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60646.
- [Position 389](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-389/): Location: Niles, IL. 60714
- [Position 388](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-388/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60604
- [Position 386](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-386/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60606
- [Position 383](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-383/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60622
- [Position 381](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-381/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60607.
- [Position 378](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-378/): Location: Des Plaines, IL. 60016
- [Position 377](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-377/): Location: Aurora, IL. 60503
- [Position 376](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-376/): Location: Lyons, IL. 60534
- [Position 375](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-375/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60661
- [Position 374](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-374/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60661
- [Position 372](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-370-2/): Location: New Lenox, IL. 60451
- [Position 368](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-368/): Location: Highland Park, IL. 60035.
- [Position 367](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-367/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60611.
- [Position 366](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-366/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60631
- [Position 365](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-365/): Location: Chicago, Il. 60660.
- [Position 361](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-361/): Location: Michigan City, IN. 46360
- [Position 360](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-360/): Location: Mokena, IL. 60448
- [Position 359](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-359/): Location: Oak Park, IL. 60302
- [Position 358](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-358/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60646
- [Position 357](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-357/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60642
- [Position 356](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-356/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60631
- [Position 355](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-355/): Location : Niles, IL. 60714
- [Position 354](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-354/): Location: Shorewood, IL. 60404
- [Position 353](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-353/): Location: Mokena, IL. 60448
- [Position 351](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-351/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60647
- [Position 349](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-349/): Location: Alsip, IL. 60803
- [Position 347](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-347/): Location: Palos Heights, IL. 60463
- [Position 346](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-346/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60607
- [Position 343](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-343/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60622
- [Position 341](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-341/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60614
- [Position 340](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-340/): Location: Gurnee, IL. 60031
- [Position 338](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-338/): Location: Lombard, IL. 60148
- [Position 337](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-337/): Location: Northbrook, IL. 60062
- [Position 335](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-335/): Location: Palatine, IL. 60067
- [Position 333](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-333/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60601
- [Position 332](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-332/): Location : Brookfield, IL. 60513
- [Position 331](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-331/): Location: Schaumburg, IL. 60194
- [Position 330](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-330/): Location: Bucktown/Wicker Park, Chicago, IL. 60647
- [Position 329](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-329/): Location: Vernon Hills, IL. 60061.
- [Position 328](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-328/): Location: Mt Prospect, IL. 60056.
- [Position 327](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-327/): Location: Park Ridge, IL. 60068.
- [Position 325](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-325/): Chiropractic
- [Position 324](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-324/): Location: Maywood, IL. 60153
- [Position 321](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-321/): Location: PALOS HEIGHTS, IL. 60463
- [Position 320](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-320/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60603
- [Position 319](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-319/): Location: Wilmette, IL. 60201
- [Position 318](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-318/): Location: Chicago, IL. 60610
- [Position 317](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-317/): Location: Wheaton, Illinois. 60187
- [Position 316](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-316/): Location: Oswego, IL. 60543
- [Position 315](https://www.soma.edu/employment/position-315/): Location: Willowbrook, IL. 60527

## Programs
- [Sports Massage Therapy Certificate](https://www.soma.edu/programs/sports-massage-therapy/): Develop the expertise to help athletes recover, prevent injuries, and boost performance. Soma’s Sports Massage program combines focused training with hands-on experience, preparing you to work confidently with both everyday clients and elite athletes.
- [Continuing Education](https://www.soma.edu/programs/continuing-education/): Advance your career with Soma’s Continuing Education classes. From advanced techniques to on-site training for employers, our programs give massage therapists opportunities to refine their skills and keep growing after graduation.
- [Clinical Massage Therapy](https://www.soma.edu/programs/clinical-massage-therapy/): Train for a fulfilling career as a Clinical Massage Therapist in Soma’s 600-hour diploma program. With expert instruction, hands-on practice, and real-world clinic experience, you’ll be ready to relieve pain, support recovery, and promote well-being in as little as 9 months*.

## Locations
- [Chicago, IL](https://www.soma.edu/locations/chicago/): The Soma Institute’s campus is conveniently located in the heart of Chicago, Illinois, with convenient access to transportation, many of the city’s best parks and the Monroe Harbor waterfront.

## Testimonials