Rehabilitation Massage Therapist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

rehabilitation massage therapist job description

In the era of well-being and health awareness, the focus on rehabilitation massage therapists is steadily increasing.

As society becomes more aware of the benefits of holistic health care, the demand for skilled professionals who can aid in injury recovery and overall wellness grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a rehabilitation massage therapist?

Whether you are:

  • A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
  • A hiring manager seeking to identify the ideal candidate,
  • Or simply curious about the intricacies of massage therapy,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a flexible rehabilitation massage therapist job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s jump right into it.

Rehabilitation Massage Therapist Duties and Responsibilities

Rehabilitation Massage Therapists provide specialized massage treatment to clients who have undergone surgery, injury, or are suffering from certain illnesses.

Their main goal is to alleviate pain, promote healing, and enhance physical function.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

  • Consult with clients about their medical history and health problems
  • Assess client’s soft tissue condition, joint quality and function, muscle strength, and range of motion
  • Design individualized massage treatment plans based on client’s needs and capabilities
  • Apply different types of massage techniques, such as deep-tissue, Swedish, and therapeutic massage
  • Monitor client’s progress and adjust treatment plans as needed
  • Provide guidance to clients about stretches, relaxation techniques, and exercises that they can do at home
  • Use aids such as infra-red lamps, wet compresses, ice, and whirlpool baths to enhance treatment
  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date client records
  • Adhere to professional ethical standards and maintain client confidentiality
  • Stay informed about latest trends and advancements in massage therapy

 

Rehabilitation Massage Therapist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Rehabilitation Massage Therapist to join our team.

The ideal candidate will have a broad knowledge of different massage techniques and the ability to provide therapy that aids in the rehabilitation of our clients’ injuries or physical conditions.

The Rehabilitation Massage Therapist’s responsibilities include developing treatment plans, applying various massage techniques, maintaining detailed records of treatments, and suggesting additional therapies when necessary.

 

Responsibilities

  • Consult with clients about their medical histories and problems with stress or pain to determine how massage will be most helpful.
  • Develop and propose client treatment plans that specify which types of massage are to be used.
  • Apply finger and hand pressure to specific points of the body.
  • Maintain treatment records.
  • Provide clients with guidance and information about techniques for postural improvement and stretching, strengthening, relaxation and rehabilitative exercises.
  • Refer clients to other types of therapists when necessary.
  • Confer with clients about their medical histories and problems with stress or pain to determine how massage will be most helpful.

 

Qualifications

  • Proven work experience as a Massage Therapist.
  • Excellent knowledge of functional anatomy and kinesiology.
  • Experience in rehabilitation and therapeutic massage.
  • Familiarity with professional ethics and standards of practice.
  • Ability to maintain detailed client records.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Certification or diploma in Massage Therapy or Physical Therapy.
  • State license for massage therapy.

 

Benefits

  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Professional development assistance
  • Retirement plan

 

Additional Information

  • Job Title: Rehabilitation Massage Therapist
  • Work Environment: Primarily in a wellness or rehabilitation center. Some travel may be required for home visits.
  • Reporting Structure: Reports to the Rehabilitation Services Manager.
  • Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
  • Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $65,000 maximum
  • Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
  • Employment Type: Full-time
  • Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
  • Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Rehabilitation Massage Therapist Do?

Rehabilitation Massage Therapists are specialized therapists who use massage techniques to help individuals recover from injuries, surgeries, or chronic conditions.

They work closely with patients, healthcare providers, and sometimes alongside physical therapists or occupational therapists to create a tailored plan for each patient.

Their job involves providing targeted therapeutic massages that can alleviate pain, improve flexibility, stimulate blood circulation, reduce stress, and promote overall wellness.

They may also be responsible for monitoring the patient’s progress and adjusting the therapy as needed, documenting patient’s condition, and maintaining a clean and safe working environment.

Rehabilitation Massage Therapists are skilled in various massage techniques and therapies like deep tissue massage, Swedish massage, lymphatic drainage massage, and many more.

They provide education to patients and their families about the benefits and contraindications of massage therapy, self-care tips, and exercises they can do at home to speed up their recovery process.

In short, a Rehabilitation Massage Therapist is a crucial part of a patient’s rehabilitation team, helping them regain function and improve their quality of life after an injury or illness.

 

Rehabilitation Massage Therapist Qualifications and Skills

A competent Rehabilitation Massage Therapist should possess a unique combination of technical skills, interpersonal abilities, and industry knowledge, such as:

  • Extensive knowledge of human anatomy and physiology to understand the areas of focus during massage sessions.
  • Ability to assess patient conditions based on their medical history, symptoms, and responses to treatment, to design effective massage therapy plans.
  • Strong hands-on skills to apply the right amount of pressure on the body parts to relieve pain and promote healing.
  • Interpersonal skills to build trust and rapport with patients, helping them feel comfortable and relaxed during therapy sessions.
  • Communication skills to clearly explain the procedures, benefits, and possible discomforts of massage therapy to patients, and to understand their concerns and feedback.
  • Problem-solving skills to adjust therapy plans based on patients’ progress and feedback.
  • Physical stamina and strength to perform massages and stand for prolonged periods.
  • Understanding of medical terminologies and ability to work collaboratively with other healthcare professionals, like physicians and physiotherapists.
  • Empathy and compassion towards patients dealing with pain and physical discomfort.
  • Keeping up-to-date with the latest developments in the field of massage therapy for rehabilitation purposes.

 

Rehabilitation Massage Therapist Experience Requirements

Rehabilitation Massage Therapists are often required to have undergone comprehensive training from a recognized massage therapy school, ensuring they have the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical experience to work with patients.

Entry-level rehabilitation massage therapists typically have 1 to 2 years of experience, which can be gained through internships or part-time roles in healthcare or wellness centers.

These therapists would have honed their skills in various therapeutic massage techniques, such as Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, and other specialized techniques for treating various physical conditions.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience are often expected to have a deeper understanding of human anatomy and physiology, as well as advanced massage techniques for specific conditions, such as sports injuries or post-surgical rehabilitation.

These professionals may have also gained experience working closely with other healthcare professionals, like physical therapists and chiropractors.

Those with more than 5 years of experience in the field may have further specialized in a particular type of rehabilitation massage, like neuromuscular therapy or lymphatic drainage massage.

They may also have experience in supervising or training less experienced therapists, thus making them suitable for managerial or team-lead positions.

 

Rehabilitation Massage Therapist Education and Training Requirements

A Rehabilitation Massage Therapist typically requires a diploma or certificate in massage therapy from an accredited school.

These programs usually cover subjects such as anatomy, physiology, pathology, kinesiology, and hands-on practice of massage techniques.

Completion of these programs often leads to a diploma or certificate, which is necessary to practice as a Rehabilitation Massage Therapist.

Most states in the U.S require massage therapists to be licensed before they can practice.

The licensing requirements vary by state but usually require a minimum number of hours of training at an approved school and passing an exam.

Rehabilitation Massage Therapists often specialize in techniques well-suited for patients recovering from injuries and surgeries, such as sports massage or deep tissue massage.

Additional training in these specialized techniques can be obtained through continuing education courses.

Voluntary certification in a specialty can also be beneficial and demonstrate a therapist’s competence in a specific type of massage therapy.

Certifications are usually offered by professional organizations and require the therapist to pass an exam.

In order to keep skills current and learn about new techniques, ongoing professional development is often necessary.

This might take the form of workshops, seminars, or further courses in specialized areas.

Having advanced training or certification in rehabilitation techniques may increase a therapist’s job prospects and indicate their dedication to the field.

 

Rehabilitation Massage Therapist Salary Expectations

A Rehabilitation Massage Therapist can expect to earn an average salary of $47,700 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings can vary widely depending on factors such as individual experience, the geographical location of the practice, and the size and reputation of the employing clinic or hospital.

 

Rehabilitation Massage Therapist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Rehabilitation Massage Therapist need?

Rehabilitation Massage Therapists must have excellent physical stamina and dexterity to perform massages and therapeutic techniques.

They need strong interpersonal and communication skills to understand clients’ needs and explain treatment plans.

They should also have a deep understanding of human anatomy and physiology and the ability to assess clients’ conditions and progress.

 

Do Rehabilitation Massage Therapists need a degree?

While a degree is not always necessary, Rehabilitation Massage Therapists must have a certification or diploma from a recognized massage therapy program.

These programs typically cover anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, ethics, and hands-on practice of massage techniques.

Additionally, most states require therapists to have a license or certification.

 

What should you look for in a Rehabilitation Massage Therapist resume?

You should look for a valid license or certification and completion of a massage therapy program.

Experience working with clients recovering from injuries or with chronic conditions is a plus.

Additional certifications in specific modalities, such as sports massage or deep tissue massage, can also be beneficial.

Finally, look for evidence of strong interpersonal skills and a commitment to client health and wellbeing.

 

What qualities make a good Rehabilitation Massage Therapist?

A good Rehabilitation Massage Therapist has a keen understanding of the body and the effects of massage on healing and recovery.

They are empathetic, patient, and supportive, as they often work with clients dealing with pain or injury.

They are excellent communicators and can effectively explain treatment plans and progress to clients.

They also have good physical stamina, as the work can be physically demanding.

 

Is it difficult to hire Rehabilitation Massage Therapists?

Hiring a Rehabilitation Massage Therapist can be challenging due to the specialized nature of the role.

It can be difficult to find candidates with the right combination of training, certification, and experience in rehabilitation.

Offering a supportive work environment, ongoing training opportunities, and competitive compensation can help attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve shed light on the true essence of being a rehabilitation massage therapist.

Surprise, surprise!

It’s not just about giving massages.

It’s about healing and enhancing the quality of life, one therapeutic touch at a time.

Armed with our definitive rehabilitation massage therapist job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to make your move.

But why stop there?

Go the extra mile with our job description generator. It’s your stepping stone to meticulously crafted job listings or fine-tuning your resume to absolute perfection.

Bear in mind:

Each therapeutic touch contributes to a larger healing journey.

Let’s embark on this journey of healing. Together.

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