If it has to do with massage and you’re looking for it, it’s likely these associations offer it. If you can, also check out the websites listed, as they are packed with useful information as well as links to other great massage sites.

Massage Recommended Reading List

The following books are the “top picks” of massage practitioners, instructors and associations. To find these books, check your local library or bookstore, Amazon.com, or Milady Publishing, (800) 347-7707.

A Physician’s Guide to Therapeutic Massage; Its Physiological Effects and Their Application to Treatment by John Yates, Published 1990.

Feet First: A Guide to Feet Reflexology by Laura Norman, Thomas Cowan, Published 1988.

Hand Reflexology Workbook by Kevin Kunz et. Al. Published 1997.

Massage: A Career at Your Fingertips by Martin Ashley.

Massage: A Practical Introduction by Stewart Mitchell, Published 1997.

Massage Therapy: Principles & Practice by Susan G. Salvo, Published 1999.

Milady’s Theory & Practice of Therapeutic Massage Workbook Published 1994.

Milady’s Theory and Practice of Therapeutic Massage by Mark F. Beck, Published 1999.

Mosby’s Fundamentals of Therapeutic Massage Essentials by Sandy Fritz. Published 1997.

Structure and Function of the Body by Gary A. Thibodeau, Kevin T. Patton. Published 1996.

Tappan’s Handbook of Healing Massage Techniques: Holistic, Classis and Emerging Trends by Frances M. Tony Tappan. Published 1998.

The Complete Guide to Foot Reflexology by Barbara Kunz et al. Published 1998.

The Complete Illustrated Guide to Foot Reflexology: Therapeutic Foot Massage for Health & Well-being by Inge Dougans. Published 1996.

The Complete Illustrated Guide to Massage: A Step-by-Step Approach to the Healing Art by Stuart Mitchell, Published 1997.

The Encyclopedia of Bodywork: From Acupressure to Zone Therapy by Elaine Stillerman. Published 1997.

The Massage Therapy Career Focus Workbook by Alex R. Spassoff, L.M.T. Published 1998.

Hints for Choosing the Right Massage Training Program

1. Learn about the profession of massage therapy such as different methods of therapy and legal requirements in the jurisdictions in which you intend to practice.

2. Collect information about several programs. Attend an open house or orientation, interview former students, read catalogs, audit classes, and call the Better Business Bureau on vocational school office in your state.

3. Consider your career intentions. Some programs focus on relaxation massage techniques, while others target remedial or mechanical applications.

4. Review the curriculum to make sure that the styles of massage taught match those you want to learn.

5. Be aware of time requirements for a particular program. Make sure your other obligations will allow enough time to study and practice outside of class.

6. Examine the credentials and experience of the faculty.

7. Find out whether the educational philosophy of the program and the faculty agree with your views about health, healing, and the purpose and use of massage therapy.

8. Receive massage therapy sessions from the faculty, graduates, and the student clinic.

9. Request information about student services, such as post-graduate job placement, tutoring, continuing education, and financial aid.

10. Consider tuition fees, additional costs, the availability of financial aid, and the quality of the program. Remember to budget additional funds for a massage table, books, and supplies.

Reprinted with permission of the American Massage Therapy Association. ©1999.