Massage Model

what's the difference between physical therapist and massage therapist?

I was thinking massage therapist, but I don't know which is the better route to go. I never thought of physical therapist. How much does it cost to be a massage therapist?

Public Comments

1. physical therapist: help you gain usefullness in using your body and functioning again message therapist: messages
2. They are vastly different careers. In a nutshell, a massage therapist does, well...massages. That is the limit of their technique for the most part. PTs do some massage, but their focus is really in restoring physical function; therefore, the repertoire of a PT includes not just massage, but strengthening, manual therapy, balance and gait training, stretching, etc. As such, the educational requirements differs dramatically for each career. A massage therapist is typically a certificate program taking anywhere from 6-10 months to 2 years to complete. A physical therapist degree is at least a master's degree, but nearly all programs are now doctorate (DPT). The costs of becoming an MT can range anywhere from several hundred dollars at a community college to $10-15,000 at a private college. The cost of getting a DPT degree can range anywhere between $70-200,000 depending on if you go to state schools, private schools or a combination between your undergraduate and graduate degrees. As far as opportunities, you should be aware that there is a very high demand for PTs. Whereas, MTs are struggling in an economy where discretionary spending is limited. Most MTs also cannot work full time, not just because of a low demand, but also because most people cannot tolerate it as full time work...it's very repetitive work and burn out is common. Since most people work only part time, or work for themselves, getting benefits can be difficult. Average pay is about $17 an hour, but this doesn't include tips. I always say, if you are lucky enough to work full time, count on a salary around $35,000...figure an extra $4-5,000 in tips assuming 15-20% tip rate. National average salary for a PT, on the other hand, is usually at least double that...and you do not need to rely on tips. However, PT is an academically challenging career. You have to have a very strong background in the sciences. Entrance into a PT program is highly competitive. Being an MT is great for a certificate career and is, for the most part, enjoyable work. Its good as a second source of income, but don't expect to be the breadwinner of the family...count on a working spouse to provide you with benefits.