What Are The Differences Between The Therapies?

You may have heard of the many kinds of therapies or therapeutic treatments. These include massage therapy, occupational therapy and physical therapy, just to name a few. When looking at careers, it is important to know what each entails, and which one is the right fit for you!

Massage Therapy:

Massage therapy is a service and skill set that is defined as, “the manipulation of the body’s soft tissues. Massage techniques are commonly applied with hands, fingers, elbows, knees, forearms, feet, or a device. The purpose of massage is generally for the treatment of body stress or pain” (Wikipedia). There are endless possibilities in terms of who a person can work with and where one may work. For example, you can own a private practice, work in a hospital, be part of a team of other healthcare professionals such as a chiropractor and more. The education needed to become a massage therapist is often a certification in that city or state.

Occupational Therapy:

Occupational therapy is described as, “A global healthcare profession. It involves the use of assessment and intervention to develop, recover, or maintain the meaningful activities, or occupations, of individuals, groups, or communities” (Wikipedia). These professionals often work with people in the hospital or rehabilitation settings. The education needed to become an occupational therapist is first a bachelor’s degree, then a master’s degree or doctorate.

Physical Therapy:

Physical therapy is defined as, “one of the health care professionals. It is provided by physical therapists who promote, maintain, or restore health through physical examination, diagnosis, management, prognosis, patient education, physical intervention, rehabilitation, disease prevention, and health promotion” (Wikipedia). Another term for a physical therapist is a “physiotherapist” in many countries and in addition to clinical practice, other aspects of physical therapist practice include research, education, consultation, and health administration. Physical therapy is provided as a primary care treatment or alongside, or in conjunction with, other medical services. The education needed is a bachelor’s degree, then either master’s degree or doctorate degree.