Our Philosophy
Our perspective is that massage is an integral part of a health program much like good nutrition or regular exercise. We would no sooner go with out regular exercise, good food, water and sunshine than go with out regular massage; but it is not a medical procedure and need not be regulated as such.
The medical community has had limited success in making their services available and affordable and if massage therapy were to follow their model, treatment would require a prescription, permission from insurance companies and be quite costly. Massage Therapy is an ancient and effective technique for treating sprains, strains, tensions and scar tissue. It is already a valid and venerated modality. It doesn't need validation from the medical community.
The difference between massage therapy and the medical community is one of approach. Massage promotes health where as the medical community fights disease. Crisis management. If a person is in crisis, we want a good surgeon or internist at the ready. Most people know when a massage is appropriate and when a doctor is required. It does not require advanced medical training to know the difference. Massage requires some training to begin an effective practice but it does not require the same depth and oversight as a medical practitioner.
At SVMTA we hope to truly serve the individual therapist and the practice in general. Our cheif aim is to shield the practice from unnecessary burdens or groups hoping to profit from things like - Mandatory Continuing Education Requirements. We believe that continuing education is important. We hope every therapist will grow in a thoughtful and relevant way. Not simply to satisfy some artificial and arbitrary requirement.
SVMTA is here to serve, inform and shield. You can help; tell us what you need or envision for the future of your practice. Contact us by email, comments@svmtaonline.org or post to our blog. We look forward to hearing from you.
