A massage therapist begins by conferring with clients about their medical histories and stress or pain problems to determine the most appropriate massage approach. They assess clients' soft tissue condition, joint quality, muscle strength, and range of motion before developing targeted treatment plans. During sessions, they massage and knead muscles and soft tissues, applying finger and hand pressure to specific body points using various therapeutic techniques. Between clients, they maintain treatment records, restock supplies, and sanitize equipment. They also provide clients with guidance on postural improvement, stretching, and strengthening techniques, and refer clients to other therapists when necessary.
Successful massage therapists possess strong physical stamina and manual dexterity, as the work requires dynamic strength, trunk strength, and multilimb coordination for extended periods. They excel in interpersonal communication with high oral comprehension and expression abilities, combined with empathy and service orientation to understand clients' needs. These professionals have strong social perceptiveness and dependability, as clients trust them with intimate physical care and expect consistent, professional treatment. They demonstrate problem sensitivity and critical thinking skills to assess conditions and adapt techniques, while maintaining the physical flexibility and extent flexibility needed for varied therapeutic positions.
Massage therapy has low automation risk due to its fundamentally human-centered nature requiring physical touch, empathy, and real-time assessment of client responses. The work activities of assisting and caring for others, performing general physical activities, and establishing interpersonal relationships cannot be replicated by current or foreseeable technology. While digital tools may enhance scheduling and record-keeping, the core therapeutic manual techniques and client interaction remain inherently human skills.
Postings appear within hours of going live on the source ATS. No aggregator lag. Direct from source.
| TERM | COUNT | FREQ | BAR | SOURCE ATTRIBUTION |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| massage | 47 | 0.0161 | wikipedia 47% inference 43% | |
| tendency | 42 | 0.0144 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| others | 39 | 0.0133 | onet dimensi 97% inference 3% | |
| equipment | 28 | 0.0096 | onet dimensi 82% dwas 7% | |
| treatment | 24 | 0.0082 | dwas 29% onet tasks 21% | |
| techniques | 22 | 0.0075 | onet dimensi 45% inference 32% | |
| therapy | 22 | 0.0075 | dwas 32% wikipedia 32% | |
| clients | 20 | 0.0068 | onet tasks 45% inference 40% | |
| physical | 20 | 0.0068 | dwas 35% inference 35% | |
| medical | 18 | 0.0062 | inference 39% dwas 22% | |
| body | 18 | 0.0062 | onet dimensi 56% wikipedia 28% | |
| principles | 16 | 0.0055 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| includes | 12 | 0.0041 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| control | 12 | 0.0041 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| hands | 12 | 0.0041 | dwas 50% onet dimensi 33% | |
| objects | 12 | 0.0041 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| problems | 11 | 0.0038 | onet dimensi 82% onet tasks 9% | |
| resources | 11 | 0.0038 | onet dimensi 82% dwas 18% | |
| ideas | 11 | 0.0038 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| activities | 11 | 0.0038 | onet dimensi 82% inference 18% | |
| patients | 11 | 0.0038 | dwas 91% onet dimensi 9% | |
| client | 10 | 0.0034 | wikipedia 60% inference 30% | |
| therapists | 10 | 0.0034 | inference 50% wikipedia 40% | |
| needs | 10 | 0.0034 | onet dimensi 80% wikipedia 10% | |
| needed | 10 | 0.0034 | onet dimensi 70% dwas 10% | |
| materials | 10 | 0.0034 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| orientation | 10 | 0.0034 | onet dimensi 90% inference 10% | |
| developing | 10 | 0.0034 | onet dimensi 80% inference 20% | |
| hand | 9 | 0.0031 | onet dimensi 78% onet tasks 11% | |
| problem | 9 | 0.0031 | onet dimensi 78% wikipedia 11% |
Provenance Window — Full Source Record · 31-9011.00 · Massage Therapists 7 source blocks · click to expand
[Core] [26% incumbents] Confer with clients about their medical histories and problems with stress or pain to determine how massage will be most helpful. DWAs: Interview patients to gather medical information. [Core] [26% incumbents] Massage and knead muscles and soft tissues of the body to provide treatment for medical conditions, injuries, or wellness maintenance. DWAs: Administer therapy treatments to patients using hands or physical treatment aids. [Core] [26% incumbents] Maintain massage areas by restocking supplies or sanitizing equipment. DWAs: Clean facilities or equipment. | Stock supplies or merchandise. [Core] [26% incumbents] Apply finger and hand pressure to specific points of the body. DWAs: Administer therapy treatments to patients using hands or physical treatment aids. [Core] [26% incumbents] Develop and propose client treatment plans that specify which types of massage are to be used. DWAs: Develop patient therapy programs. [Core] [26% incumbents] Maintain treatment records. DWAs: Maintain medical records. [Core] [26% incumbents] Assess clients' soft tissue condition, joint quality and function, muscle strength, and range of motion. DWAs: Assess physical conditions of patients to aid in diagnosis or treatment. [Core] [26% incumbents] Provide clients with guidance and information about techniques for postural improvement and stretching, strengthening, relaxation, and rehabilitative exercises. DWAs: Teach medical procedures or medical equipment use to patients. [Core] [26% incumbents] Treat clients in professional settings or travel to clients' offices and homes. DWAs: Administer therapy treatments to patients using hands or physical treatment aids. | Administer therapeutic massages. [Core] [26% incumbents] Refer clients to other types of therapists when necessary. DWAs: Refer patients to other healthcare practitioners or health resources. | Help clients get needed services or resources. [Core] [26% incumbents] Prepare and blend oils and apply the blends to clients' skin. DWAs: Administer therapy treatments to patients using hands or physical treatment aids. [Core] [26% incumbents] Consult with other health care professionals, such as physiotherapists, chiropractors, physicians, and psychologists, to develop treatment plans for clients. DWAs: Confer with other professionals to plan patient care. [Core] [26% incumbents] Perform other adjunctive therapies or treatment techniques in addition to massage. DWAs: Administer therapy treatments to patients using hands or physical treatment aids. [Supplemental] [26% incumbents] Use complementary aids, such as infrared lamps, wet compresses, ice, and whirlpool baths to promote clients' recovery, relaxation, and well-being. DWAs: Administer therapy treatments to patients using hands or physical treatment aids.
--- SKILLS --- Active Listening (imp:3.62 lvl:3.25) — Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand Speaking (imp:3.62 lvl:3.62) — Talking to others to convey information effectively. Reading Comprehension (imp:3.00 lvl:3.12) — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents. Writing (imp:3.00 lvl:2.88) — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audienc Critical Thinking (imp:3.00 lvl:3.25) — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternativ Active Learning (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future pr Monitoring (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organization Learning Strategies (imp:2.75 lvl:2.88) — Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate fo Mathematics (imp:2.00 lvl:1.50) — Using mathematics to solve problems. Science (imp:1.75 lvl:1.00) — Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems. --- KNOWLEDGE --- Customer and Personal Service (imp:4.58 lvl:5.27) — Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal servic Biology (imp:3.31 lvl:2.85) — Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interd English Language (imp:3.31 lvl:2.96) — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the mea Psychology (imp:3.27 lvl:3.88) — Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, Medicine and Dentistry (imp:3.08 lvl:2.73) — Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human i Sales and Marketing (imp:3.00 lvl:3.46) — Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products Public Safety and Security (imp:3.00 lvl:2.58) — Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote Administration and Management (imp:2.73 lvl:2.81) — Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, Administrative (imp:2.69 lvl:3.23) — Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word proce Education and Training (imp:2.69 lvl:3.19) — Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching Law and Government (imp:2.68 lvl:2.32) — Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulat Economics and Accounting (imp:2.65 lvl:2.46) — Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial mar Therapy and Counseling (imp:2.65 lvl:2.54) — Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and r Sociology and Anthropology (imp:2.50 lvl:2.31) — Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human Communications and Media (imp:2.35 lvl:2.12) — Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and m Philosophy and Theology (imp:2.12 lvl:2.19) — Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their Personnel and Human Resources (imp:2.04 lvl:1.96) — Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, tra Computers and Electronics (imp:1.92 lvl:2.19) — Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and comput Mathematics (imp:1.68 lvl:1.04) — Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their appl Physics (imp:1.64 lvl:1.12) — Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, Chemistry (imp:1.64 lvl:1.40) — Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances a Telecommunications (imp:1.58 lvl:0.46) — Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of te Engineering and Technology (imp:1.54 lvl:0.81) — Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. Th Foreign Language (imp:1.50 lvl:1.04) — Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language inclu Mechanical (imp:1.44 lvl:0.72) — Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and main Design (imp:1.25 lvl:0.48) — Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of History and Archeology (imp:1.23 lvl:0.32) — Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civi Production and Processing (imp:1.20 lvl:0.46) — Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and ot Building and Construction (imp:1.19 lvl:0.31) — Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or r Transportation (imp:1.19 lvl:0.42) — Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea Geography (imp:1.12 lvl:0.27) — Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, an Fine Arts (imp:1.12 lvl:0.23) — Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform Food Production (imp:1.00) — Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food --- ABILITIES --- Dynamic Strength (imp:3.75 lvl:3.50) — The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This inv Trunk Strength (imp:3.75 lvl:3.38) — The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the Oral Comprehension (imp:3.62 lvl:3.88) — The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through Oral Expression (imp:3.62 lvl:3.62) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will unde Manual Dexterity (imp:3.50 lvl:3.12) — The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your Problem Sensitivity (imp:3.38 lvl:3.38) — The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does no Multilimb Coordination (imp:3.38 lvl:3.12) — The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or Extent Flexibility (imp:3.25 lvl:3.12) — The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs. Written Comprehension (imp:3.12 lvl:3.12) — The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing. Written Expression (imp:3.12 lvl:3.00) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will under Deductive Reasoning (imp:3.12 lvl:3.12) — The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that Selective Attention (imp:3.12 lvl:3.00) — The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distrac Arm-Hand Steadiness (imp:3.12 lvl:3.12) — The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while hold Finger Dexterity (imp:3.12 lvl:3.25) — The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or bot Stamina (imp:3.12 lvl:3.12) — The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getti Speech Clarity (imp:3.12 lvl:3.12) — The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you. Inductive Reasoning (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusion Static Strength (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects. Near Vision (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer). Speech Recognition (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person. Information Ordering (imp:2.88 lvl:3.00) — The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according Fluency of Ideas (imp:2.75 lvl:2.75) — The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas Originality (imp:2.75 lvl:2.88) — The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situa Category Flexibility (imp:2.75 lvl:2.75) — The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping Flexibility of Closure (imp:2.25 lvl:2.25) — The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or so Time Sharing (imp:2.25 lvl:2.25) — The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of Wrist-Finger Speed (imp:2.25 lvl:2.00) — The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and Memorization (imp:2.12 lvl:2.00) — The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and proced Speed of Closure (imp:2.12 lvl:2.12) — The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into mea Far Vision (imp:2.12 lvl:2.00) — The ability to see details at a distance. Mathematical Reasoning (imp:2.00 lvl:1.12) — The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a prob Perceptual Speed (imp:2.00 lvl:1.88) — The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among Visualization (imp:2.00 lvl:1.88) — The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when Control Precision (imp:2.00 lvl:1.88) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehi Gross Body Equilibrium (imp:2.00 lvl:1.88) — The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unsta Number Facility (imp:1.88 lvl:1.12) — The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly. Explosive Strength (imp:1.88 lvl:0.88) — The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping Dynamic Flexibility (imp:1.88 lvl:1.00) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with yo Depth Perception (imp:1.88 lvl:1.12) — The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you Gross Body Coordination (imp:1.75 lvl:1.50) — The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together wh Visual Color Discrimination (imp:1.75 lvl:1.25) — The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of c Hearing Sensitivity (imp:1.62 lvl:0.88) — The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch Auditory Attention (imp:1.62 lvl:1.00) — The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distra Speed of Limb Movement (imp:1.50 lvl:0.62) — The ability to quickly move the arms and legs. Spatial Orientation (imp:1.25 lvl:0.25) — The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know wher Response Orientation (imp:1.25 lvl:0.25) — The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two o Reaction Time (imp:1.12 lvl:0.12) — The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sou Rate Control (imp:1.00) — The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in an Night Vision (imp:1.00) — The ability to see under low-light conditions. Peripheral Vision (imp:1.00) — The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes ar Glare Sensitivity (imp:1.00) — The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting. Sound Localization (imp:1.00) — The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated. --- WORK ACTIVITIES --- Assisting and Caring for Others (imp:4.60 lvl:5.00) — Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other pe Performing for or Working Directly with the Public (imp:4.52 lvl:5.20) — Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving Performing General Physical Activities (imp:4.23 lvl:4.54) — Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require co Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships (imp:4.20 lvl:4.72) — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and m Getting Information (imp:4.19 lvl:3.81) — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sour Making Decisions and Solving Problems (imp:3.88 lvl:4.04) — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and sol Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards (imp:3.81 lvl:3.42) — Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events o Documenting/Recording Information (imp:3.81 lvl:3.62) — Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in writte Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events (imp:3.64 lvl:4.19) — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge (imp:3.58 lvl:4.00) — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job. Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People (imp:3.38 lvl:3.50) — Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people. Handling and Moving Objects (imp:3.35 lvl:4.15) — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work (imp:3.31 lvl:4.00) — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your Performing Administrative Activities (imp:3.27 lvl:3.31) — Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files Monitoring and Controlling Resources (imp:3.23 lvl:3.54) — Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money. Thinking Creatively (imp:3.19 lvl:3.88) — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, syste Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others (imp:3.16 lvl:3.08) — Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used. Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings (imp:3.15 lvl:3.73) — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others (imp:3.12 lvl:3.36) — Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, Scheduling Work and Activities (imp:3.04 lvl:2.88) — Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others. Communicating with People Outside the Organization (imp:3.04 lvl:3.52) — Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organizatio Developing Objectives and Strategies (imp:3.00 lvl:3.04) — Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates (imp:3.00 lvl:2.92) — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, Providing Consultation and Advice to Others (imp:2.92 lvl:3.23) — Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, Processing Information (imp:2.81 lvl:2.92) — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying Analyzing Data or Information (imp:2.69 lvl:2.54) — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by break Training and Teaching Others (imp:2.69 lvl:2.85) — Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or tr Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials (imp:2.62 lvl:2.15) — Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors o Developing and Building Teams (imp:2.62 lvl:2.12) — Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team membe Coaching and Developing Others (imp:2.50 lvl:2.65) — Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherw Working with Computers (imp:2.27 lvl:2.15) — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to progra Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates (imp:2.27 lvl:2.42) — Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others (imp:2.19 lvl:2.35) — Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks. Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information (imp:2.12 lvl:1.81) — Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resourc Selling or Influencing Others (imp:2.08 lvl:2.12) — Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or Staffing Organizational Units (imp:1.96 lvl:1.58) — Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organ Controlling Machines and Processes (imp:1.58 lvl:1.00) — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment (imp:1.50 lvl:0.92) — Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, an Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment (imp:1.46 lvl:0.77) — Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment (imp:1.15 lvl:0.31) — Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, s Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment (imp:1.15 lvl:0.31) — Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to t --- WORK STYLES --- Dependability (imp:4.00) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o Cooperation (imp:3.00) — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work. Empathy (imp:2.47) — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel Cooperation (imp:2.43) — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work. Dependability (imp:2.27) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o Sincerity (imp:2.14) — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou Empathy (imp:2.00) — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel Social Orientation (imp:1.99) — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work. Optimism (imp:1.90) — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un Integrity (imp:1.89) — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work. Self-Control (imp:1.77) — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res Cautiousness (imp:1.69) — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related Attention to Detail (imp:1.51) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work. Stress Tolerance (imp:1.29) — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work. Humility (imp:1.22) — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work. Initiative (imp:1.18) — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may Perseverance (imp:1.18) — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in Self-Confidence (imp:1.15) — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control Innovation (imp:1.10) — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on Sincerity (imp:1.00) — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou Achievement Orientation (imp:0.97) — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, Adaptability (imp:0.97) — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas Tolerance for Ambiguity (imp:0.89) — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work. Intellectual Curiosity (imp:0.87) — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep Leadership Orientation (imp:0.25) — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work. Innovation () — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on Achievement Orientation () — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, Intellectual Curiosity () — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep Tolerance for Ambiguity () — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work. Initiative () — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may Adaptability () — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas Self-Confidence () — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control Perseverance () — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in Leadership Orientation () — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work. Humility () — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work. Optimism () — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un Social Orientation () — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work. Cautiousness () — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related Attention to Detail () — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work. Integrity () — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work. Stress Tolerance () — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work. Self-Control () — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res --- TRANSFERABLE SKILLS --- Social Perceptiveness (imp:3.25 lvl:3.25) — Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do. Service Orientation (imp:3.25 lvl:3.12) — Actively looking for ways to help people. Judgment and Decision Making (imp:3.12 lvl:2.88) — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the m Complex Problem Solving (imp:3.00 lvl:2.75) — Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and ev Time Management (imp:2.88 lvl:2.38) — Managing one's own time and the time of others. Coordination (imp:2.38 lvl:1.88) — Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions. Instructing (imp:2.25 lvl:2.25) — Teaching others how to do something. Systems Evaluation (imp:2.25 lvl:2.38) — Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed Systems Analysis (imp:2.12 lvl:2.12) — Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, Persuasion (imp:2.00 lvl:1.62) — Persuading others to change their minds or behavior. Negotiation (imp:2.00 lvl:1.75) — Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences. Technology Design (imp:1.75 lvl:1.12) — Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs. Quality Control Analysis (imp:1.75 lvl:1.00) — Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate Management of Personnel Resources (imp:1.75 lvl:0.88) — Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best Operations Analysis (imp:1.62 lvl:1.25) — Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design. Management of Material Resources (imp:1.62 lvl:0.88) — Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materi Operations Monitoring (imp:1.38 lvl:0.50) — Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working pr Troubleshooting (imp:1.38 lvl:0.38) — Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it. Management of Financial Resources (imp:1.38 lvl:0.50) — Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for the Equipment Selection (imp:1.00) — Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job. Installation (imp:1.00) — Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications. Programming (imp:1.00) — Writing computer programs for various purposes. Operation and Control (imp:1.00) — Controlling operations of equipment or systems. Equipment Maintenance (imp:1.00) — Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind o Repairing (imp:1.00) — Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
--- NATIONAL WAGES --- total_employment : 98,790 annual_median : $58,450 annual_pct10 : $33,640 annual_pct25 : $43,480 annual_pct75 : $78,320 annual_pct90 : $100,200 annual_mean : $63,830 hourly_median : $28.10 --- GEOGRAPHIC DISPERSION --- highest_state : Alaska ($134,930) lowest_state : Puerto Rico ($29,000) dispersion_ratio : 4.653x --- TOP STATES BY WAGE (52 total) --- Other Services (except Public Administration) emp: 50,610 median: $ 55,990 Health Care and Social Assistance emp: 33,300 median: $ 65,800 Accommodation and Food Services emp: 9,400 median: $ 43,670 Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation emp: 3,580 median: $ 51,980 Retail Trade emp: 560 median: $ 48,680 Educational Services emp: 560 median: $ 50,940 Federal, State, and Local Government, excluding State and Local Government Schools and Hospitals and the U.S. Postal Service (OEWS Designation) emp: 50 median: $ 58,830 --- TOP INDUSTRIES BY EMPLOYMENT (7 total) --- Other Services (except Public Administration) emp: 50,610 median: $ 55,990 Health Care and Social Assistance emp: 33,300 median: $ 65,800 Accommodation and Food Services emp: 9,400 median: $ 43,670 Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation emp: 3,580 median: $ 51,980 Retail Trade emp: 560 median: $ 48,680 Educational Services emp: 560 median: $ 50,940 Federal, State, and Local Government, excluding State and Local Government Schools and Hospitals and the U.S. Postal Service (OEWS Designation) emp: 50 median: $ 58,830
exact_match_status : found matched_title : Massage table match_score : 0.6452 wikidata_qid : Q6784507 word_count : 242 wikipedia_url : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Massage_table license : CC BY-SA 4.0 fetched_at : 2026-06-02T21:53:15.598623Z --- WIKIPEDIA FULL TEXT --- A massage table is used by massage therapists to position the client to receive a massage. Most are manufactured with client comfort and therapist ergonomics in mind. A typical table has an easily cleaned, heavily padded surface, and a face cradle that allows the client to breathe easily while lying face down. Customizable tables can include a powered center section, variable position armrests and adjustable head section to create better body mechanics for the therapist so that they can better treat the client. Tables may be either stationary or portable, depending on the intended use. Additional padding or supports such as specific supports for pregnancy massage, may be used as accessories to the basic table. Common additions also included speciality heated pads and draping sheets. There are many uses for massage tables beyond basic massage therapy. They can also be used as an examination table by doctors and medical practitioners, and can be used by specialized practitioner like: reflexologists, physiotherapists, osteopaths, acupuncturists, reiki practitioners and even beauty therapists like facialists. When it comes to choosing the right massage table one should consider many factors like: what type of therapy will be performed and what are specific needs for proper therapy treatment. Uniform surface provides patient with comfort which is needed for general massages and therapy. Some massages like sport massage require special patient positions and for that more-sections therapy tables should be used. == See also == Massage chair == References == --- SEMANTIC NEIGHBORS (5) --- Title: Massage (similarity: 0.5600) URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Massage QID: Q179415 Extract: Massage is the rubbing or kneading 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. In English-speaking European countries, traditionally Title: Stone massage (similarity: 0.4516) URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stone_massage QID: Q607553 Extract: A stone massage is a type of therapy classified as a form of alternative medicine massage, involving the placement of heated or cooled stones on the body intended to promote relaxation or relieve discomfort. Various cultural traditions employ different techniques for stone placement, temperature, an Title: Medical massage (similarity: 0.4242) URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medical_massage QID: Q1030071 Extract: Medical massage is outcome-based massage, primarily the application of specific targeted techniques to the problem the patient presents with a diagnosis or assessment, and is administered after a thorough evaluation by the medical massage therapist, with specific outcomes being the basis for treatme Title: Watsu (similarity: 0.2609) URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Watsu QID: Q525299 Extract: Watsu is a form of aquatic bodywork used for deep relaxation and passive aquatic therapy. Watsu is characterized by one-on-one sessions in which a practitioner or therapist gently cradles, moves, stretches, and massages a receiver in chest-deep warm water. Title: Sexological bodywork (similarity: 0.1579) URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sexological_bodywork QID: Q136534587 Extract: Sexological bodywork is a body-based, somatic sex education modality in which trained practitioners use one-way touch, breathwork, movement, and focused attention to support clients in learning about arousal, pleasure, and sexual wellbeing within an explicitly educational context. Sessions emphasize
model_pass1 : claude-sonnet-4-20250514
model_pass2 : claude-haiku-4-5-20251001
inference_confidence : high
confidence_notes : Strong O*NET data coverage with detailed skills, knowledge, abilities, and work activities. Clear BLS wage data and employment statistics support market intelligence. Well-defined educational requirements and licensing patterns provide solid career entry information.
inferred_at : 2026-06-03T20:13:38.058824+00:00
tokens_input : 4,654
tokens_output : 4,338
cost_usd : $0.048166
wikipedia_used : False
wikipedia_title : Massage table
wikipedia_note : The exact match was for massage equipment rather than the profession itself. The semantic neighbors including 'Massage' and 'Medical massage' provided more relevant context about therapeutic massage practices and applications.
--- PROSE FIELDS ---
ROLE SUMMARY:
Massage Therapists perform therapeutic massages of soft tissues and joints to treat medical conditions, injuries, and promote wellness. They assess clients' physical conditions, develop treatment plans, and apply various manual techniques to improve muscle function and reduce pain. These healthcare support professionals work in diverse settings from spas and wellness centers to medical facilities, combining clinical knowledge with hands-on therapeutic skills.
DAY IN THE LIFE:
A massage therapist begins by conferring with clients about their medical histories and stress or pain problems to determine the most appropriate massage approach. They assess clients' soft tissue condition, joint quality, muscle strength, and range of motion before developing targeted treatment plans. During sessions, they massage and knead muscles and soft tissues, applying finger and hand pressure to specific body points using various therapeutic techniques. Between clients, they maintain treatment records, restock supplies, and sanitize equipment. They also provide clients with guidance on postural improvement, stretching, and strengthening techniques, and refer clients to other therapists when necessary.
WHO THRIVES:
Successful massage therapists possess strong physical stamina and manual dexterity, as the work requires dynamic strength, trunk strength, and multilimb coordination for extended periods. They excel in interpersonal communication with high oral comprehension and expression abilities, combined with empathy and service orientation to understand clients' needs. These professionals have strong social perceptiveness and dependability, as clients trust them with intimate physical care and expect consistent, professional treatment. They demonstrate problem sensitivity and critical thinking skills to assess conditions and adapt techniques, while maintaining the physical flexibility and extent flexibility needed for varied therapeutic positions.
CAREER ENTRY:
Entry into massage therapy typically requires completing a post-secondary certificate program focused on massage techniques, anatomy, and therapeutic applications, which 73.1% of practitioners hold. Many states require licensing as a Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT) or Certified Massage Therapist (CMT), involving formal training and examination. Some practitioners pursue associate's degrees (11.5%) for broader healthcare knowledge or specialized techniques. Previous experience in customer service or healthcare support can be valuable for developing the interpersonal skills essential to this client-focused profession.
CAREER TRAJECTORY:
Massage therapists can advance by specializing in areas like medical massage, deep tissue work, or sports therapy, often requiring additional certification. Many experienced practitioners establish their own practice or move into supervisory roles at spas, wellness centers, or medical facilities. Career progression may lead to teaching positions at massage therapy schools, becoming a registered massage therapist with expanded scope of practice, or transitioning to related healthcare roles like physical therapist assistant or occupational therapy assistant with additional education.
MARKET INTELLIGENCE:
The massage therapy field employs 98,790 professionals with a median annual wage of $58,450 according to BLS OEWS May 2025, ranging from $33,640 to $100,200. Geographic variation is substantial, with Alaska offering the highest wages at $134,930 compared to Puerto Rico's $29,000, representing a 4.65x ratio reflecting regional demand and cost of living differences. Employment is concentrated in Other Services (50,610 positions) and Health Care and Social Assistance (33,300 positions), with growing demand in medical settings as healthcare providers increasingly recognize massage therapy's clinical benefits. The Accommodation and Food Services sector employs an additional 9,400 therapists, primarily in resort and spa settings.
AUTOMATION OUTLOOK:
Massage therapy has low automation risk due to its fundamentally human-centered nature requiring physical touch, empathy, and real-time assessment of client responses. The work activities of assisting and caring for others, performing general physical activities, and establishing interpersonal relationships cannot be replicated by current or foreseeable technology. While digital tools may enhance scheduling and record-keeping, the core therapeutic manual techniques and client interaction remain inherently human skills.
--- REASONED EDGES ---
[skill_overlap] Physical Therapist Assistants (31-2021.00) — confidence:high
reasoning: Both roles share high importance in assisting and caring for others, performing physical activities, and require knowledge of biology and medicine.
data: Assisting and Caring for Others imp:4.6
data: Biology knowledge imp:3.3
data: Medicine and Dentistry knowledge imp:3.1
[task_similarity] Occupational Therapy Assistants (31-2011.00) — confidence:high
reasoning: Both assess patient conditions, develop treatment plans, and provide hands-on therapeutic interventions with similar physical demands.
data: Dynamic Strength imp:3.8
data: Manual Dexterity imp:3.5
data: Treatment planning tasks
[riasec_cluster] Recreational Therapists (29-1125.00) — confidence:medium
reasoning: Both show strong Social orientation (S:5.75) with secondary Realistic traits, focusing on helping others through therapeutic interventions.
data: RIASEC S:5.75
data: Customer and Personal Service knowledge imp:4.6
[career_pathway] Skincare Specialists (39-5094.00) — confidence:medium
reasoning: Similar post-secondary certificate education requirements and hands-on client service in wellness/spa environments.
data: Post-Secondary Certificate 73.1%
data: Other Services employment 50,610
data: Manual dexterity requirements
[job_zone] Physical Therapist Aides (31-2022.00) — confidence:high
reasoning: Both are Job Zone 3 requiring medium preparation and share healthcare support functions with similar educational pathways.
data: Job Zone 3
data: Healthcare support vertical
data: Post-secondary certificate education
[knowledge_overlap] Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses (29-2061.00) — confidence:medium
reasoning: Both require knowledge of biology, medicine and dentistry, and psychology for patient care in healthcare settings.
data: Biology knowledge imp:3.3
data: Medicine and Dentistry imp:3.1
data: Psychology knowledge imp:3.3
--- NORMALIZER SIGNALS ---
match_keywords : ['massage', 'therapist', 'bodywork', 'therapeutic', 'soft tissue', 'manual therapy', 'licensed massage', 'certified massage']
exclude_keywords : ['physical therapy', 'occupational therapy', 'nursing', 'medical assistant', 'spa attendant']
title_patterns : ['Licensed Massage Therapist', 'Certified Massage Therapist', 'Massage Therapist', 'Clinical Massage Therapist', 'Medical Massage Therapist']
common_variations: ['LMT', 'CMT', 'RMT', 'Masseur', 'Masseuse', 'Bodywork Therapist', 'Massage Operator', 'Massotherapist']
total_terms : 40 top_words : ['massage', 'tendency', 'others', 'equipment', 'treatment', 'techniques', 'therapy', 'clients', 'physical', 'medical', 'body', 'principles', 'includes', 'control', 'hands', 'objects', 'problems', 'resources', 'ideas', 'activities'] source_layers : onet_tasks | onet_dimensions | dwas | wikipedia | inference TERM COUNT FREQ DOMINANT SOURCE SOURCE BREAKDOWN ────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────── massage 47 0.01608 wikipedia wikipedia:47% inference:43% onet_tasks:11% tendency 42 0.01437 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% others 39 0.01335 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:97% inference:3% equipment 28 0.00958 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:82% dwas:7% inference:7% treatment 24 0.00821 dwas dwas:29% onet_tasks:21% wikipedia:21% techniques 22 0.00753 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:45% inference:32% wikipedia:14% therapy 22 0.00753 dwas dwas:32% wikipedia:32% inference:32% clients 20 0.00685 onet_tasks onet_tasks:45% inference:40% onet_dimensions:5% physical 20 0.00685 dwas dwas:35% inference:35% onet_dimensions:30% medical 18 0.00616 inference inference:39% dwas:22% wikipedia:22% body 18 0.00616 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:56% wikipedia:28% onet_tasks:11% principles 16 0.00548 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% includes 12 0.00411 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% control 12 0.00411 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% hands 12 0.00411 dwas dwas:50% onet_dimensions:33% wikipedia:8% objects 12 0.00411 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% problems 11 0.00377 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:82% onet_tasks:9% inference:9% resources 11 0.00377 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:82% dwas:18% ideas 11 0.00377 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% activities 11 0.00377 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:82% inference:18% patients 11 0.00377 dwas dwas:91% onet_dimensions:9% client 10 0.00342 wikipedia wikipedia:60% inference:30% onet_tasks:10% therapists 10 0.00342 inference inference:50% wikipedia:40% onet_tasks:10% needs 10 0.00342 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:80% wikipedia:10% inference:10% needed 10 0.00342 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:70% dwas:10% wikipedia:10% materials 10 0.00342 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% orientation 10 0.00342 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:90% inference:10% developing 10 0.00342 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:80% inference:20% hand 9 0.00308 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:78% onet_tasks:11% inference:11% problem 9 0.00308 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:78% wikipedia:11% inference:11% procedures 9 0.00308 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:89% dwas:11% services 9 0.00308 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:67% inference:22% dwas:11% human 9 0.00308 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:78% inference:22% quickly 9 0.00308 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% performing 9 0.00308 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:89% inference:11% therapist 9 0.00308 inference inference:56% wikipedia:44% quality 8 0.00274 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:75% onet_tasks:12% inference:12% strength 8 0.00274 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:50% inference:38% onet_tasks:12% understand 8 0.00274 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:88% inference:12% monitoring 8 0.00274 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100%