Since 1994, the New York Institute of Massage has answered the need for trained massage therapists in the Buffalo, New York community. NYIM recognizes the importance of massage therapy as a complementary therapy to traditional medicine and provides the necessary education for individuals to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to become a successful and licensed massage therapist.

NYIM is registered to offer a massage therapy program by the New York State Education Department. Its facilities include clinical rooms and classrooms which can accommodate up to 70 participants. The student clinic has 7 private rooms with massage tables, adjustable lighting, and related massage supplies.

Source of official student records: Director, New York Institute of Massage, 4701 Transit Road, Williamsville, New York 14221.

MASSAGE THERAPY PROGRAM

The Massage Therapy Program consists of 1,104 hours of classroom and practical instruction; (prior to August 1999, the curriculum consisted of 675 hours). In addition, students are required to perform individual massage therapies during student clinic and commit to 20 hours of community service at NYIM-sponsored events, many of which benefit local charities. Upon successful completion of the entire 11 month program, individuals are eligible to sit for the New York State Massage Therapy Licensing Exam to become a Licensed Massage Therapist.

Descriptions and credit recommendations

1,104 Hour Curriculum (August 1999 - Present)

NOTE: The Massage Therapy Program represents an integrated learning experience; therefore, credit is recommended only after an individual has successfully completed the entire program.

Anatomy and Physiology
Location: New York Institute of Massage, 4701 Transit Road, Williamsville, New York.
Length: 153 hours (12 weeks).
Dates: August 1999 - Present.*
Objectives: Anatomy: Describe the development of bone structure; describe anatomical structures using correct terminology; name and locate anatomical landmarks. Physiology: Locate and identify the tissues and organs of the major body systems and describe their functions; discuss normal anatomical and physiological relationships among all the major body systems.
Instruction: Anatomy: Skeletal terminology; axial skeleton; vertebral column thorax; pelvic girdle; upper and lower extremities; appendicular skeleton and joints; arterial and venous portions of circulation. Physiology: Integumentary/skeletal, endocrine, circulatory, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems. NOTE: Laboratory work is not included.
Credit recommendation: In the lower division baccalaureate/ associate degree category, 6 semester hours in Biology, Health Science, or related disciplines (6/99) (5/01) (6/06 revalidation). NOTE: Credit is not recommended as a laboratory science course. *NOTE: The credit recommendation for this course dates back to an earlier curriculum. Please refer to the next section for further information.

Business Management
Location: New York Institute of Massage, 4701 Transit Road, Williamsville, New York.
Length: 18 hours (4 weeks).
Dates: August 1999 - Present.
Objectives: Discuss the business aspects to running a professional massage practice.
Instruction: Business set-up; developing career objectives; employment types; business plans; zoning; work environment; differential advantage; marketing; designing advertising; networking and colleagues; communication skills; client file.
Credit recommendation: In the lower division baccalaureate/ associate degree category, 1 semester hour in Massage Therapy or Business Management (6/99) (5/01) (6/06 revalidation).

Health and Hygiene
Location: New York Institute of Massage, 4701 Transit Road, Williamsville, New York.
Length: 76.5 hours (12 weeks).
Dates: August 1999 - Present.*
Objectives: Identify communicable diseases and mental illness, child abuse and domestic violence symptoms; identify common drugs and their clinical implications; demonstrate preventative/safety precautions and infection control measures; perform CPR/First Aid according to the requirements of the American Red Cross.
Instruction: Safety in the clinical setting; CPR/First Aid; HIV/AIDS: use and effects of powders, oils, and lotions; infection control; universal precautions; mental health issues; hydrotherapy and mechanical vibration; child abuse and domestic violence; common drugs and their clinical implications; sterilization of equipment and septic application; product information; personal hygiene; documentation; ethics; prevention of medical errors.
Credit recommendation: In the lower division baccalaureate/ associate degree category, 2 semester hours in Health Education or related disciplines (6/99) (5/01) (6/06 revalidation). *NOTE: The credit recommendation for this course dates back to an earlier curriculum. Please refer to the next section for further information.

Introduction to Massage
Location: New York Institute of Massage, 4701 Transit Road, Williamsville, New York.
Length: 108 hours (12 weeks).
Dates: August 1999 - Present.
Objectives: Discuss the history, theory, and practice of massage therapy, including indications, benefits, and extreme cautions; perform a basic evaluative massage routine.
Instruction: Universal precautions; history of massage therapy; professional standards and pre-therapy communication; tools of the trade; body mechanics and draping; massage indications and extreme cautions; effleurage; petrissage and endangerment sites; friction; tapotement, vibration, and ancillary moves; abdominal massage; opening and closing variations; full body massage; full body evaluation and professional communication; seated massage; range of motion; posture assessment; blindfold massage; practical techniques; using computers to document therapies and schedule client appointments; marketing for clinic and community service; ethics.
Credit recommendation: In the lower division baccalaureate/ associate degree category, 4 semester hours (2 lecture, 2 laboratory) in Massage Therapy (6/99) (5/01) (6/06 revalidation).

Massage Techniques
Location: New York Institute of Massage, 4701 Transit Road, Williamsville, New York.
Length: 108 hours (12 weeks).
Dates: August 1999 - Present.
Objectives: Discuss the history and basic theories of the various recognized techniques of massage therapy; integrate features of these techniques into basic massage routines and articulate their features to clients.
Instruction: Various techniques and theories are discussed and explored: neuromuscular techniques; cranio-sacral therapy; reflexology; active isolated stretch; sports massage; Pfrimmer technique.
Credit recommendation: In the lower division baccalaureate/ associate degree category, 4 semester hours (2 lecture, 2 laboratory) in Massage Therapy (5/01) (6/06 revalidation).

Medical Massage
Location: New York Institute of Massage, 4701 Transit Road, Williamsville, New York.
Length: 108 hours (12 weeks).
Dates: August 1999 - Present.
Objectives: Integrate basic massage skills to effectively treat a variety of medical conditions; modify techniques to fit the needs of clients; discuss how various techniques are therapeutically suited to addressing specific medical and/or chiropractic diagnoses.
Instruction: Massage routines for individuals with a referral for a specific medical and/or chiropractic diagnosis; health conditions that limit mobility and sensation; how the body is affected by certain conditions; how massage therapy can benefit persons with specific disorders; massage techniques; treatment plans; fibrosis of repair; bursitis; tendinitis; sprains and strains; axial skeleton conditions; shoulder injuries and treatments; elbow and forearm injuries and treatments; carpal tunnel and related symptoms; leg and hip injuries and treatments; knee and ankle injuries and treatments; cervical diagnoses; chiropractic diagnoses; headaches; sinus issues; whiplash; temporomandibular joint; thoracic injuries and conditions; lumbar spine injuries; lumboro-ambulatory issues; sacral injuries and conditions; foot disorders; multiple sclerosis; polio; cerebral palsy; Parkinson’s disease; arthritis; vericose veins; geriatric massage; fibromyalgia/chronic fatigue.
Credit recommendation: In the lower division baccalaureate/ associate degree category, 4 semester hours (2 lecture, 2 laboratory) in Massage Therapy (6/99) (5/01) (6/06 revalidation) .

1. Myology I
2. Myology II
(Formerly 1. Myology/Physical Assessment I and 2. Myology/Physical Assessment II)
Location: New York Institute of Massage, 4701 Transit Road, Williamsville, New York.
Length: 1. 99 hours (12 weeks). 2. 99 hours (12 weeks).
Dates: 1. August 1999 - Present.* 2. August 1999 - Present.*
Objectives: Courses 1 and 2: Name and articulate the muscles and their functions, including origin, insertion, action potential, innervation, and range of motion; discuss actions, antagonists, and synergistic effects of muscles; discuss the effects of massage on muscles; integrate trigger point therapy and individual muscle testing into practice; assess body functions through postural analysis, gait analysis, muscle testing, and measurements of range of motion using goniometers; discuss orthopedic and neurological tests.
Instruction: Course 1: Plumb line analysis; goniometer use; evaluation terminology; range of motion; muscle origin, insertion, innervation, and action; muscles of facial expression, mastication, the neck, upper back, and shoulder; abductors of the shoulder; shoulder join; muscles of the upper arm; pronators/supinator of the arm; extensors of the wrist and hand; evaluation of the elbow; muscles of the thumb; flexors of the wrist and hand; muscles of the hand and digit minim. Course 2: Trigger points; gait and ataxia tests; muscles of respiration; erectors of the spine; articulating muscles of the head, neck, and back; evaluation of the neck; muscles of postural support; evaluations of the back; muscles of the hip; evaluation of the hip joint; basic structural kinesiology; muscles of the quadriceps and hamstring groups; adductors of the hip; evaluation of knee joint; muscles of the posterior lower leg and toes; peroneals and extensors of the toes; evaluation of the ankle. NOTE: Laboratory work is not included in either course.
Credit recommendation: Courses 1 and 2: In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 6 semester hours in Massage Therapy, Health Science, Exercise Physiology, Science, or related disciplines (6/99) (5/01) (6/06 revalidation). NOTE: Credit is not recommended as a laboratory science course. NOTE: Courses 1 and 2 must both be completed to receive credit. *NOTE: The credit recommendation for these courses dates back to an earlier curriculum. Please refer to the next section for further information.

Neurology
Location: New York Institute of Massage, 4701 Transit Road, Williamsville, New York.
Length: 54 hours (12 weeks).
Dates: August 1999 - Present.*
Objectives: Describe the anatomy and physiology of the nervous system, including central, peripheral, and autonomic systems; discuss how the nervous system affects other major body systems, including the effects of homeostasis and the results of nervous system dysfunction.
Instruction: Nervous system functions and elements; anatomy and behavior of a specialized nerve cell; physiology of nerves; conduction types and physiology; the brain and connecting to other systems; mapping the regions of the brain; the cerebellum and its functions; geography and function of the spine; spinal nerves, afferent and efferent impulses; dermatomes and plexi. NOTE: Laboratory work is not included.
Credit recommendation: In the lower division baccalaureate/ associate degree category, 3 semester hours in Biology, Health Science, or related disciplines (12/98) (5/01) (6/06 revalidation). NOTE: Credit is not recommended as a laboratory science course. *NOTE: The credit recommendation for this course dates back to an earlier curriculum. Please refer to the next section for further information.

Oriental Massage
(Shiatsu or Eastern Massage)
Location: New York Institute of Massage, 4701 Transit Road, Williamsville, New York.
Length: 108 hours (12 weeks).
Dates: August 1999 - Present.*
Objectives: Explain yin/yang theory, five phase theory, meridian pathways, qi concepts, hara evaluation, kyo/jitsu theory, and the four stages of evaluation for whole body treatments, indications, and contraindications; discuss the appropriate applications of Oriental Massage modalities, including Chinese and Japanese healing arts; perform basic full-body Shiatsu treatment.
Instruction: Traditional medical model of Western treatment compared to the Eastern holistic model; locations of the meridian pathways; functions of the points; hara evaluation; kyo/jitsu theory; four stages of evaluation; qi concepts; yin/yang; five phases; specific treatment for the entire body.
Credit recommendation: In the lower division baccalaureate/ associate degree category, 4 semester hours (3 lecture, 1 laboratory) in Massage Therapy (12/98) (5/01) (6/06 revalidation). *NOTE: The credit recommendation for this course dates back to an earlier curriculum. Please refer to the next section for further information.

1. Pathology I
2. Pathology II
Location: New York Institute of Massage, 4701 Transit Road, Williamsville, New York.
Length: 1. 54 hours (12 weeks). 2. 54 hours (12 weeks).
Dates: 1 and 2. August 1999 - Present.*
Objectives: Courses 1 and 2: Recognize the signs and symptoms of various diseases as they relate to all body systems; discuss how to effectively treat a variety of disorders using both Western and Oriental approaches to massage therapy.
Instruction: Course 1: The disease process; abnormal physiology of the integumentary system, nervous system respiratory system, reproductive system, skeletal system, and muscular system; indications and extreme cautions of massage therapy for various disorders. Course 2: Pain management; holistic health; abnormal physiology of the endocrine system, circulatory system, lymph and immune system, digestive system, urinary system, and muscular system; congenital disorder; referrals to appropriate health care professionals.
Credit recommendation: In the lower division baccalaureate/ associate degree category, 6 semester hours in Massage Therapy, Health Science, Allied Health Science, or related disciplines (12/98)(5/01) (6/06 revalidation). *NOTE: The credit recommendation for these courses dates back to an earlier curriculum. Please refer to the next section for further information.

Student Clinic
Location: New York Institute of Massage, 4701 Transit Road, Box 645, Williamsville, New York.
Length: Version 1 or 2: 60 hours (40 weeks); involves 60 individual massage therapies.
Dates: Version 1: August 1999 - December 2004 .* Version 2: January 2005 - Present.
Objectives: Perform massage therapies in a variety of modalities to meet the various needs of clients; exhibit professionalism when interacting with the public; maintain appropriate confidential records; refer cases to appropriate medical personnel, as necessary; perform required cleaning to maintain health and hygiene standards.
Instruction: Version 1 or 2: Use of varied modalities of massage therapy; professional clinic behavior; operation of the clinic; client/customer relations; confidential record keeping and documentation. Students are required to perform 60 individual massage therapies.
Credit recommendation: Version 1: In the lower division baccalaureate/ associate degree category, 1 semester hour as an internship/clinical in Massage Therapy (12/98) (5/01). Version 2: In the lower division baccalaureate/ associate degree category, 2 semester hours as an internship/clinical in Massage Therapy (6/06 revalidation). *NOTE: The credit recommendation for this course dates back to an earlier curriculum. Please refer to the next section for further information.

 675 Hour Curriculum (November 1996 - November 1999)

NOTE: The Massage Therapy Program represents an integrated learning experience; therefore, credit is recommended only after an individual has successfully completed the entire program.

1. Anatomy
2. Physiology
Location: New York Institute of Massage, 4701 Transit Road, Williamsville, New York.
Length: 1. 40.5 hours (9 weeks). 2. 76.5 hours (9 weeks).
Dates: 1. November 1996 - November 1999.* 2. November 1996 - November 1999.*
Objectives: Course 1: Describe the development of bone structure; describe anatomical structures using correct terminology; name and locate anatomical landmarks. Course 2: Locate and identify the tissues and organs of the major body systems and describe their functions; discuss normal anatomical and physiological relationships among all the major body systems.
Instruction: Course 1: Skeletal terminology; axial skeleton; vertebral column thorax; pelvic girdle; upper and lower extremities; appendicular skeleton and joints; arterial and venous portions of circulation. NOTE: Laboratory work is not included. Course 2: Integumentary/skeletal, endocrine, circulatory, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive and urinary systems. NOTE: Laboratory work is not included.
Credit recommendation: Courses 1 and 2: In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 6 semester hours in Biology, Health Science, or related disciplines (12/98). NOTE: Courses 1 and 2 must both be completed to receive credit. NOTE: Credit is not recommended as a laboratory science course. *NOTE: The credit recommendation for these courses continues in the preceding section.

Health and Hygiene
Location: New York Institute of Massage, 4701 Transit Road, Williamsville, New York.
Length: 22.5 hours (5 weeks).
Dates: November 1996 - November 1999.*
Objectives: Identify communicable diseases; demonstrate preventative/safety precautions and infection control measures; perform CPR/First Aid according to the requirements of the American Red Cross.
Instruction: Safety in the clinical setting; CPR/First Aid; HIV; AIDS: infection control; sterilization of equipment and septic application.
Credit recommendation: In the lower division baccalaureate/ associate degree category, 1 semester hour in Health Education or related disciplines (12/98). *NOTE: The credit recommendation for this course continues in the preceding section.

Myology
Location: New York Institute of Massage, 4701 Transit Road, Williamsville, New York.
Length: 81 hours (9 weeks).
Dates: November 1996 - November 1999.*
Objectives: Name and articulate the muscles and their functions, including origin, insertion, action potential, innervation, and range of motion.
Instruction: Anatomical terminology; muscle physiology; cranial and facial muscles; neck and shoulder girdle; head and vertebral column; chest, respiration, and abdominals; arm, forearm, and extensors; flexors of the hand, hip, thigh, and leg; leg and foot; gait analysis; range of motion. NOTE: Laboratory work is not included.
Credit recommendation: In the lower division baccalaureate/ associate degree category, 3 semester hours in Massage Therapy, Health Science, Science, or related disciplines (12/98). NOTE: Credit is not recommended as a laboratory science course. *NOTE: The credit recommendation for this course continues in the preceding section.

Neurology
Location: New York Institute of Massage, 4701 Transit Road, Williamsville, New York.
Length: 45 hours (10 weeks).
Dates: November 1996 - November 1999.*
Objectives: Describe the anatomy and physiology of the nervous system.
Instruction: Histology; neurons; central nervous system; spinal cord; spinal nerves; brain and cranial nerves; plexus and autonomic nervous system; special senses.
Credit recommendation: In the lower division baccalaureate/ associate degree category, 2 semester hours in Biology, Health Science, or related disciplines (12/98). *NOTE: The credit recommendation for this course continues in the preceding section.

Oriental Massage
Location: New York Institute of Massage, 4701 Transit Road, Williamsville, New York.
Length: 108 hours (10 weeks).
Dates: November 1996 - November 1999.*
Objectives: Explain yin/yang theory, five phase theory, meridian pathways, qi concepts, hara evaluation, kyo/jitsu theory, and the four stages of evaluation for whole body treatments, indications, and contraindications; discuss the appropriate applications of Oriental Massage modalities, including Chinese and Japanese healing arts; perform basic full-body Shiatsu treatment.
Instruction: Traditional medical model of Western treatment compared to the Eastern holistic model; locations of the meridian pathways; functions of the points; hara evaluation; kyo/jitsu theory; four stages of evaluation; qi concepts; yin/yang; five phases; specific treatment for the entire body.
Credit recommendation: In the lower division baccalaureate/ associate degree category, 4 semester hours (3 lecture, 1 laboratory) in Massage Therapy (12/98). *NOTE: The credit recommendation for this course continues in the preceding section.

Pathology
Location: New York Institute of Massage, 4701 Transit Road, Williamsville, New York.
Length: 40.5 hours (10 weeks).
Dates: November 1996 - November 1999.*
Objectives: Recognize the signs and symptoms of various diseases and discuss the appropriate allopathic treatment.
Instruction: The disease process; skin disorders; cardiac disorders; peripheral circulatory disorders; gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal, and nervous disorders; infectious disease.
Credit recommendation: In the lower division baccalaureate/ associate degree category, 2 semester hours in Health Science, Allied Health Science, or related disciplines (12/98). *NOTE: The credit recommendation for this course continues in the preceding section.

Student Clinic
Location: New York Institute of Massage, 4701 Transit Road, Box 645, Williamsville, New York.
Length: 60 hours (10 weeks); involves 36 to 40 individual massage therapies.
Dates: November 1996 - November 1999.*
Objectives: Perform massage therapies in a variety of modalities; exhibit professionalism when interacting with the public; maintain appropriate confidential records; refer cases to appropriate medical personnel, as necessary; perform required cleaning to maintain health and hygiene standards.
Instruction: Use of varied modalities of massage therapy; professional clinic behavior; operation of the clinic; client/customer relations; confidential record keeping and documentation. Students are required to perform 36 to 40 individual massage therapies.
Credit recommendation: In the lower division baccalaureate/ associate degree category, 1 semester hour as an internship/clinical in Massage Therapy (12/98). *NOTE: The credit recommendation for this course continues in the preceding section.

Updated 3/5/07

Return to all CCR Online  listings