The Riverland Community College massage therapist program begins its sixth year of clinical massages. Students are scheduling appointments. This service is open to the public. The massage clinic, based at the Riverland Albert Lea Campus, will run from now until May 5, 2010. Clinic hours are Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. The Riverland Community College Albert Lea Campus is located at 2200 Riverland Drive.

Services include hour-long and half hour-long massages, tandem (four-hand) and stone massages, reflexology sessions and 15-minute chair massages. Fees range from $10 to $40, depending on the service. Gift certificates are available. To schedule an appointment, call 507-379-3367 and leave a message. A student will return the call to schedule an appointment.

The Riverland Massage Therapist program integrates theory, anatomy, physiology, pathology and kinesiology along with developing professional communication skills. The program prepares graduates to operate a massage therapy clinic or be employed in another health care-related setting. Massage has been shown to improve circulation, enhance relaxation, reduce pain and increase mobility and flexibility. Massage therapists can work in a clinic, hospital, private practice, health club and a variety of other work settings.