Alternative Health Jobs

The popularity of alternative medicine continues to grow, increasing the availability of alternative health jobs. Alternative medicine uses holistic practices to treat the whole patient instead of treating only their symptoms. New careers in alternative health evolve as people seek alternative or complementary treatments to Western medicine.

Massage Therapist

• Massage therapists undergo specialized training in different techniques to manipulate the soft tissues and muscles of the body. Over 80 different types of massage offer relief from chronic pain, stress and promote injury rehabilitation. A massage therapist varies their techniques through pressure, strokes and body position.


• Massage therapists work in private practices, hospitals and rehabilitation centers. Most states require a minimum of 500 hours of training and a state licensing exam. The average salary for a massage therapist ranges from $16.78 per hour to $33.47 per hour.

Acupuncturist

• Acupuncture began in ancient Chinese medicine and uses thin needles inserted into strategic areas of the body to free the energy flow, called chi. Acupuncturists identify blocked meridian points throughout energy fields in the body and insert the needle to release blocked energy. The World Health Organization recognizes the practice as safe and effective for 28 medical conditions.


• Becoming an acupuncturist requires a minimum of a master’s degree through a National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine accredited program. Training lasts five to eight years and is required for state licensing in 42 states that regulate the practice of acupuncture. Expect an annual salary range of $30,000 to $50,000 after completion of the training program.

Reflexologists

• Reflexology uses different pressure techniques applied to target zones on the hands and feet to relieve stress, improve circulation and reduce chronic symptoms. Reflexologists believe each body part and organ corresponds to a zone on the hands and feet. Massaging the target zone causes an increase in the flow of energy, nutrients and blood to the affected body parts.


• Training as a reflexologist lasts approximately one year and qualifies a person for certification by the American Reflexology Certification Board. Reflexologists find employment at spas, massage therapy practices and clinics. Salary varies with experience and clientele, going up to $60,000 annually.

Homeopath

• A homeopath evaluates a patient’s medical history and current condition to create a natural approach to treating the patient's ailments. A homeopath uses highly diluted remedies prepared from natural substances such as minerals and plants. Homeopaths believe in a system called Laws of Similar. This means that a remedy can cure a sick person if it produces a similar sickness or effect on a healthy person.


• The practice of homeopathy dates back over 200 years and is practiced across the world. Education requirements do not exist for this job; however, attending homeopathic research seminars and training under an experienced homeopath builds knowledge and experience. The average annual salary of a homeopath ranges from $53,500 to $99,000.

Chiropractors

• Chiropractic care uses the manipulation and adjustment of the spine to relieve pain and treat conditions of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. A chiropractor uses controlled force on areas of the spine to improve or restore joint function and reduce inflammation. Chiropractic care also emphasizes proper nutrition, exercise and healthy lifestyle habits.


• Chiropractors undergo stringent training and educational requirements similar to a medical doctor. The annual salary for a chiropractor ranges from $68,000 to $103,000.