Massage Therapy Journal Summer 2026

14 • Massage Therapy Journal

AMTA regularly invests in massage therapy research .

includes language which aims to increase awareness that patients need access to complementary and integrative pain therapies such as massage therapy. Promoting High-Quality Research to Expand Access and Public Awareness Research plays a foundational role in expanding access. Strong evidence supports broader insurance coverage, informs clinical guidelines and increases adoption in hospitals, VA and DoD clinics and community health centers. Through its partnership with the Massage Therapy Foundation, AMTA has invested more than $16 million in massage therapy research since the foundation’s inception 35 years ago. In 2025, AMTA pledged an additional $2.5 million over the next five years, representing an unprecedented level of support for research that strengthens the evidence base for massage therapy as an effective integrative health treatment. Research in pain management, oncology, pediatric care, pregnancy, trauma recovery and veteran health not only improves clinical practice but also advances the policy and reimbursement changes necessary to make massage therapy more accessible nationwide. Expanding Workforce Mobility Through Licensing Portability Access to massage therapy also relies on a strong, mobile massage therapy workforce. Significant variation in state licensing requirements creates barriers for massage therapists who relocate, particularly military spouses and families, and can contribute to uneven provider distribution. AMTA supports the Revised Interstate Massage Therapy Compact, which allows licensed massage therapists who meet established eligibility requirements to practice in multiple states without obtaining additional licenses. Why the Revised Massage Therapy Compact Matters for Access • It increases flexibility for active-duty military families, making it easier to maintain licensure when relocating. • It strengthens professional mobility while maintaining public protection through consistent eligibility and verification standards.

• It improves workforce distribution, helping underserved communities gain access to qualified massage therapists. When qualified licensed therapists can move and practice more easily, communities across the country gain greater access to massage therapy. Elevating Public Awareness and Professional Education Improving access also requires increasing awareness. Many individuals and even some health care providers remain unfamiliar with the growing body of research supporting massage therapy. AMTA addresses this gap through research-based publications, continuing education and national media outreach that highlights emerging research across a range of health conditions. These efforts reach millions of people each year. As awareness grows, referrals increase, insurers better recognize the value of massage therapy and consumers feel empowered to seek out massage therapy for their health and wellness needs. Greater awareness supports policy progress and ultimately expands massage therapy access.

VIEW RECENT RESEARCH SUPPORTING MASSAGE THERAPY FOR A VARIETY OF HEALTH CONDITIONS

Scan the QR code to view content that AMTA has distributed to the public via national media.

A Future Where Massage Therapy Is Accessible to All At AMTA, we believe access to safe, professional massage therapy is an essential part of whole-person health. That belief drives every step we take to expand insurance coverage, champion legislation, invest in research, advance licensing portability, and educate the public. Together, these efforts are breaking down barriers and building a stronger, more integrated health care landscape — one where massage therapy is recognized, accessible, and affordable for the individuals and communities who need it most. Learn more about AMTA’s advocacy efforts at amtamassage.org/advocacy.

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