COVID-19 Updates & Guidelines for the Massage Therapy Profession

Spiked ball Coronavirus

To move forward in this time of uncertainty, we have developed a breadth of resources for the massage therapy profession. In addition to financial relief information, answers to your FAQs, and state updates, we have created a very thorough, heartfelt review of the issues and challenges you will face when you resume your practice. From preparing your treatment room and office for return to practice, to before/during/after session interaction, to detailed sanitation guidelines, you will find a clear, specific Back-to-Practice Guide, when you are ready for it.  

Here at ABMP, we remain focused on supporting you during these unprecedented times. We are committed to you, and we are committed to getting through this together. If you are interested in becoming part of the ABMP family for additional resources, you can learn about membership at www.abmp.com/more.

State Updates Regarding COVID-19

Map of United States with Info on COVID-19

The latest updates, for massage professionals in each state including closures, reopening, regulations, and requirements.

Federal Financial Relief

Financial folders with one folder boldy labeled Covid-19

The CARES Act that passed Friday, March 27, provides many potential methods of assistance for our members. There are small business loans and payroll assistance loans, modifications to tax filing deadlines, and an expansion of unemployment benefits ...

Back to Practice Guide

Using COVID-19 best-practice recommendations, we’ve compiled this document of practice protocols, PPE guidance, and intake forms for practitioners who are choosing to move forward with reopening their businesses.

Read the Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Answers from a list of FAQs we’ve been receiving from our members, including questions about liability insurance coverage, state regulations, and financial assistance.

 

COVID-19 and Your Clients

Keep talking to your massage clients during your work shutdown by sending them Body Sense magazine.

Body Sense magazine has always been a great client communication tool for ABMP members, but it can be especially helpful today as practitioners look for new ways to stay connected to clients during the current health crisis. Keep talking to your clients, even while they’re not on your table!

 

News

Texas Introduces Second Exam Option for Massage Therapy Applicants

The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation announced that massage therapist applicants now have a second licensing testing method from which they can choose, the Texas Massage Therapists Examination. Learn about exam registration, cancellation policies, and location sites.

Florida Bill Requires Gender-Exclusive Restrooms

Florida lawmakers passed a bill that requires individuals to use, and certain public spaces to provide, restrooms that align with their sex assigned at birth. Find out how House Bill 1521, signed by Governor Ron De Santis, may affect your school.

Arizona Repeals Communication Proficiency Tests

The Arizona legislature adopted House Bill 2012, which eliminates the requirement for the State Board of Massage Therapy to establish communication proficiency requirements for applicants applying for a massage therapy license.

Blog

How Many Massage Therapists Are in the US?

Massage Therapists in US 2023

Based on the work conducted for our 2023 process, ABMP estimates the number of massage therapists in the United States at approximately 321,493, which is down from the height of 2019’s estimate of 334,221.

Join ABMP at the Premiere Orlando Show

ABMP at Premiere Orlando

ABMP is thrilled to partner with Ann and Lynn Teachworth of Trunamics to offer two CE courses in the massage therapy track at Premiere Orlando, June 3–5, 2023.

Benefits

Podcast: Exploring Plantar Foot Pain

In this episode of The ABMP Podcast, Kristin and Darren are joined by Whitney Lowe to discuss common causes of foot pain (including Morton’s Neuroma), muscle-tendon pathology, and some treatment options for each one.

Podcast: All Islands Meet Underwater

On this episode of The ABMP Podcast, Doug Nelson and Jennifer Crozier discuss why opening a massage therapy clinic is a viable career path and how community relations are the best marketing strategy.

Podcast: Knowing Expectations in the Work Environment

In this episode of The ABMP Podcast, Nate Nordstrom and Carrie Wiedemann from Hand and Stone Massage and Facial Spa join Kristin and Darren to discuss knowing your expectations in the work environment and how open communication during an interview can help set the tone during your tenure.

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