Massage therapy is one of the hottest employment fields in today’s job market. Studies show that this field will continue to grow in the short-term as well as the long-term. Part of the reason why massage therapy is in high demand is the fact that a large percentage of our population is rapidly aging and desires/requires massage treatment. This segment of the population is the baby boomers. Let’s dig into the future of massage therapy and explain why it is a growing field.
Massage Therapists are in the Catbird’s Seat
Baby boomers, the second largest age cohort in the United States, are entering retirement. About 10,000 baby boomers reach the age of 65 each day. This statistic will hold true until 2030. This aging population requires all sorts of care, including massage therapy. As bodies break down and become more vulnerable to physical stress, the demand for massage therapy skyrockets. Aside from the aging baby boomer cohort, massage therapy positions are poised to rise due to the increase in the popularity of spas. Massage clinics, spas and resorts featuring massage therapists are popping up all over the place, especially in large cities.
Some employers are even offering massage therapy as an employment perk to recruit and retain desirable employees. Many believe that physicians, physical therapists and chiropractors will also increase the demand for massage therapy with a rise in referrals. Over half of those who discuss massage therapy with their physician report that he strongly recommended this treatment modality.
Massage Therapy Occupational Statistics From the Bureau of Labor Statistics
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 168,800 massage therapy positions existed in the United States in 2014. From 2014 to 2024, the job outlook for massage therapists is expected to brighten considerably. It is anticipated that the field will experience a 22 percent growth rate in the upcoming decade. This is quite the rapid growth rate compared to other fields of employment. A 22 percent growth rate equates to an addition of 36,500 jobs over the next decade.
Massage Therapy is a Legitimate Career Opportunity Rather Than a Job
All of the evidence points to an increase in demand for the services provided by massage therapists. Though no one can predict the future, it is becoming increasingly clear that the general population is open to massage therapy treatment. More and more people are turning to massage therapy as a means of pleasure as well as a form of legitimate pain relief. Massages are physically, mentally and spiritually therapeutic. If the economy continues to gradually rebound from the Great Recession of 2008, a growing number of people will have ample discretionary income that can be spent on non-necessities like massage therapy treatment.
Though people might not always desire or need specific consumer products like video games, books or automobiles, the condition of the human body can always be improved with a thorough massage. This is exactly why massage therapy is a timeless service that will likely always be in demand. Unlike other lines of work, massage therapy probably won’t be replaced by technology or automation any time soon.
Massage Therapy has Nowhere to go but Up
It is clear that the demand for massage therapists will rise in the upcoming years and possibly across the next couple of decades. The human body will always experience aches and pains. As medical technology improves and the average lifespan is extended, the demand for massage therapy will only continue to grow.
