River Valley Community College’s Massage Clinic is more than just a luxury

By KATLYN PROCTOR
Eagle Times Associate Editor
KEENE, N.H. — Melting onto a massage table seems like a luxury many take for granted, but there is value in having regular massages, says Michael Jacovina.

Jacovina, LMT, is the massage therapy program director at River Valley Community College (RVCC), where he teaches his students the importance of massage therapy. And what seems like a luxury to some is actually self-care for all.

“Some of the benefits include reduced muscle tension, improved circulation, reduction of stress hormones, increased mobility, improved recovery of soft tissue injuries and improved skin tone,” said Jacovina, who relocated to New Hampshire from New York about six years ago. “Massage has become more accessible over the past few decades with an increased awareness of self-care and the success of numerous corporate chains.”

That accessibility is even easier (and affordable) thanks to River Valley’s Massage Clinic, a $25 massage for 50 minutes of table time. The therapist? A student at the school.

“Every body is different. During their first semester, students are encouraged to work on friends and family members to gain experience,” Jacovina said. He oversees the students at the clinic on a rotational basis, offering suggestions and mentoring as needed. “Hosting the massage clinic at RVCC in the second semester lets the students get the benefit of experiencing what it is like to work with people from all walks of life.”

And all walks of life are exactly what you see at The Massage Clinic at RVCC. Now through early May, patients can visit the clinic, being greeted by Jacovina himself at the door. Upon arrival at the massage table, students are instructed to review check-in paperwork with the patient and discuss any potential problem areas. Then, they’ll get to work.

“The Massage Clinic at RVCC provides community members with affordable massages from exceptional student therapists,” Jacovina said. “It’s also invaluable experience for when they [students] will be working in the field and meeting clients for the first time.”

Getting a degree in massage therapy is easy thanks to RVCC; so easy, in fact, they say it’s a “career in a year.”

“Massage therapy is a calling,” Jacovina said. “Students must study anatomy and physiology in order to work on the human body safely, and with confidence. Our Massage Modalities I and II classes provide students with a working understanding of modalities such as Thai Massage, Prenatal Massage, Hospice and Elder Care and Spa Techniques.”

One of the unique electives that RVCC offers for massage therapy students is Hospice and Elder Care, where students focus on the care of elderly patients with pre-existing conditions.

“Our Hospice and Elder Care class culminates with multiple visits to nursing homes and assisted care facilities in the surrounding area to provide treatments for those that need it most,” Jacovina said.

For more on how massage therapy can change your life, visit here.