(Confirmed as of June 7, 2026. Subject to change. Check the state boards for each state for updates and confirmation.
See the Page with the full list of definitions.
State Definitions of Massage
Click a green state to see its massage therapy scope of practice.
Compare states
Pick up to three states to see their definitions side by side.
Why the definitions vary so much
There is no single national definition of massage therapy. Each state writes its own, so the same word can mean noticeably different things depending on where you practice. Some states spell out specific modalities (hydrotherapy, hot and cold applications, mechanical devices, energy work); others stay broad. Most licensed states explicitly carve out what massage is not — diagnosis, prescribing, and spinal or joint manipulation are the most common exclusions. A handful of states do not license massage at all, and two use certification or registration instead of licensure.
The grid below tracks whether each state’s written definition mentions a given element. A blank means the statute is silent on it — not necessarily that the activity is prohibited. Always check the linked law for the authoritative text.
Definition comparison matrix
| State ↕ | Regulation ↕ | Bodywork | Hydrotherapy | Heat & cold | Devices | Energy work | Excl. diagnosis | Excl. thrust | Referral lang. |
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Tip: click a column header to sort; click a state name to open its full definition.