Some Common Questions Answered

Q. What are the differences between Therapeutic, Swedish, Sports, Remedial and Advanced Remedial Massage?

A. Therapeutic Massage, is also referred to as Swedish Massage and generally used as a form of preventative treatment. This form of massage is designed to both relax and stimulate, it works on all the body systems to encourage balance between them, it is comforting, gently easing away tension, stress, muscular aches and pains and encouraging the lymphatic and circulatory systems to perform to their potential. The Professional Diploma course includes SQA qualifications indicating that individuals have achieved a high level of ability in this area.

Remedial Massage is a term used to indicate the therapist has all the qualifications of a therapeutic massage therapist but has attained additional skills and competences enabling the treatment of specific musculo-skelatal conditions. Those having qualified at this level have achieved a much more specific level of applied anatomy and additional massage skills. At SSPM they will have also achieved additional SQA qualifications accrediting the course.

Advanced Remedial Massage, here the practitioner has all the qualifications of the above categories but has studied in greater depth pathology, anatomy and physiology and is competent to assess and treat a variety of more complex conditions and injuries. They have acquired advanced skills in body work and soft tissue manipulation. At SSPM they will have gained SQA qualification in their skills.

Sports Massage, as this is performed on athletes, either pre-inter-post-event or between competitions, in downtime, or in building up to competition, the Sports Massage Practitioner must have a good idea of how athletes work, and what is important to them in terms of training and competition. Thus sports massage is about how you work with the athlete in all scenarios from the edge of the field to the clinical environment. It uses both therapeutic and remedial techniques as necessary to the situation.

Q. Where can I use this training!

A. Our own Professional Diploma in Therapeutic Massage Course provides a thorough training in massage techniques, sequencing, consultation procedures, comprehensive study of anatomy, physiology, principles of pathology, examination procedures and treatment of common musculo-skeletal conditions. Upon completion, a graduate can establish their own business, be employed in complementary health clinics, private practices, health spas/clubs and leisure/sports clubs. Even NHS practices are including complementary therapies within their services.

Q. What is the difference between taking an SQA HN unit at an FE College and training with the SSPM?

A. Although the units offered by Colleges are completely valuable and offer a recognised qualification, they usually form only part of a complete award. At SSPM we offer a course whereby you would gain a professional qualification that actually prepares you to work competently with individuals in a clinical setting. You still gain the SQA qualification, but also accrue a great deal of experience and knowledge that allows you to work competently as an independent therapist.

Q. Why do the costs of courses vary so much?

A. Training establishments vary considerably in the quality and standards of their course content, study materials, standard of tutor and assessors qualifications, training and study facilities and student support. This is where the onus is on the prospective student to compare like-for-like where practically possible. The old cliche 'You get what you pay for' can be quite relevant.

One very important question to ask yourself is ‘why do I want to do this course?’ If you are looking to change career, then you need to be looking at issue like educational accreditation, future courses, etc. However, if you only want to do a bit of massage on your partner, then the previous comments are not so relevant.

Q. Would I have to attend all of the tutorials?

A. Basically – yes! The tutorials are only held once per month and they are essential in that you learn all of the ‘hands on’ practical techniques. They are also the place where essential written and practical assessments take place.

However, we also appreciate that life doesn’t always go to plan, and that in extenuating circumstances, it is possible to ‘make up’ a missed tutorial by arranging a one-to-one session with a tutor. This does incur an extra fee and must be negotiated with the Principal.

Q. I think I have qualifications that would exempt me from parts of the course – can I still get the qualification?

A. We are always prepared to discuss APL with those who have trained elsewhere and feel that their previous qualifications may match or exceed our requirements. Please phone to discuss. We are also able to offer bespoke courses.