Student Massages at OSM
How to Schedule
Appointments are made by phone. Click on the button above for details on this quarter’s schedule for the campus of your choice. Student massages are popular, so we typically have a “call-in day” where a majority of appointments are booked for the upcoming 3 months. We limit the number of appointments per person to allow access to a variety of people with whom our students can practice massage.
Clinic Policies
- One hour Swedish and 75 minute Shiatsu massages cost $45.
- We are unable to accommodate late arrivals. Please plan to arrive 10 minutes early and allow 80-90 minutes for your appointment. Early check-in allows time fill out any necessary paperwork.
- We have a 24-hour cancellation policy. You may send a substitute.
- We may not be able to honor special requests.
- According to state law, students cannot accept tips.
Purpose of the Student Clinic
Program students are required to perform supervised massage session in the Student Clinic. Clinics students apply their training to real client situations and conditions. Supervised clinical practice is essential as students transition from beginner to practicing professional. We encourage you to take part in our Student Clinic.
Massage Fee
Massage fees do not go to the students but contribute substantially to their education by helping to pay for supervisor wage, administrative and facility costs. Prior to being licensed, students may not receive any form of compensation for massage. Please respect this and refrain from tipping. The best “tip” that you can give is honest feedback. Both positive and constructive feedback is essential to student improvement.
During the Session
In the Swedish clinic, clients disrobe to their individual comfort level. Students are trained to use proper draping techniques to maintain client modesty. The genital area (and breasts for females) will always remain covered. During a Swedish massage, oil or lotion is applied directly to the skin. If you wear make-up, please keep it light. If possible, it’s also best to minimize hair products, perfume or cologne.
Special Requests
During the first five weeks of clinic, students are required to do full body massages. This includes spending time on all limbs, back of the torso, upper chest, abdomen and head. If you prefer not to receive a full body massage, please schedule an appointment in the last five weeks of the term. Late in the term, it is appropriate to focus most/all attention to specific area(s), in which case others may be left out of the massage.
Communication and Feedback
Students will communicate with you occasionally during the massage, seeking feedback. Be aware that the supervisor is present at all times during Student Clinic sessions. The student may ask the supervisor questions or to demonstrate particular techniques specific to your needs.
Client Injuries and Conditions
Students are being trained on the appropriate limits on their work. In some case, the student may limit the extent of massage performed. Clients with injuries or diseases should have specific written approval from a physician before receiving massage.
Swedish Massage
Basic Information
- Swedish massage was introduced in the early 1800s by Swedish physician Per Heinrik Ling. Ling integrated emerging knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and blood circulation with traditional Eastern healing techniques and his own set of physical exercises. Swedish massage works to induce relaxation while improving circulation and range of movement.
- Practitioners use basic strokes of gliding, kneading, friction pressure, tapping, and vibration. They may also incorporate active or passive physical exercises as well as heat, cold or water (hydrotherapy) to enhance treatment.
Shiatsu Massage
Basic Information
- Shiatsu, meaning “finger pressure”, is often referred to as acupressure. Shiatsu is based on principals of Traditional Chinese Medicine and utilizes gentle to deep techniques such as compression, stretching and rocking.
- The goal of Shiatsu is to balance the body and facilitate the circulation of “qi” (life energy). Practitioners believe a balanced body leads to better health.
- Sessions are designed to build up areas where energy is low and to dispense areas of excess, leaving the receiver feeling more relaxed, alert and invigorated.
- See a demonstration of Shiatsu by viewing the video below:
Body Sense is a magazine produced by the organization, Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals. It is provided to member therapists and intended for massage clients and the general public. Click the link to see the latest issue.
Thank You. We appreciate your support of our student clinic. If time or location prevents your using these services or you have a specialized need, we can assist you with a referral to a suitable massage practitioner. We urge you to use massage as a regular part of your health care.