Wellness Info 101: Massage therapy in Massachusetts

October 5, 2:24 PMBoston Wellness ExaminerAmy Kreydin

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Massage can be very relaxing

Therapeutic massage is a great way to promote relaxation, reduce muscle tension, improve range of motion and much more. There are many different styles of massage therapy, ranging from ancient techniques to those with a modern twist.

Here in Massachusetts many folks seek out massage in the following settings:

• The local day spa.
• Massage clinic chains (such as Elements and Massage Envy).
• Student clinics at local massage schools
• A sole practitioner in a massage studio.
• Corporate mobile massage at the office.
• and sometimes in the comfort of one's own home.
• Massage at the shopping mall is becoming a popular retreat from a day of shopping.

Finding the Right Therapist

When first researching a massage therapy practitioner the client should be aware that here in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts all massage therapists are required to be licensed with the Board of Registration of Massage Therapy. In fact, both the therapist and the establishment (location the massage takes place) need to be licensed. Due to the recent nature of a statewide license many locations have not come into compliance with the new laws and face hefty fines according to the Board.

Here are some questions to ask a potential therapist when seeking massage:

1. Are you licensed? As stated above the massage therapist is required to be licensed, there are quite a few forms of bodywork that are exempt from this process though. Anyone can check with the Division of Professional Licensure to see if a practitioner or business hold a valid license.
2. Where are you located? Will the location suit the needs of the client? For example - should it be ADA compliant due to an injury or illness that prevents one from climbing steps? Is it convenient to the T or by car? What is the parking situation?
3. What is your experience with my condition or need? For example, if the client is pregnant she would wish to know if the therapist has been certified in prenatal massage. Or perhaps the client is looking for someone who works with athletes to gear up for the Boston marathon.

Use an online directory such the Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals's directory by zip code or town or the American Massage Therapy Association's locator service.

Find tips on How to get the Most out of Your Massage.

Image courtesy: Dominik Gwarek