Massage Therapy Journal Summer 2026

66 • Massage Therapy Journal

Research Literacy Examining the Latest Research

Strengthening Community Impact: The Next Chapter of the Massage Therapy Foundation’s Community Service Awards F inding ways to expand access to qualified therapeutic massage practitioners has been a longstanding conversation within the massage therapy industry, and, increasingly, By Adrienne F. Asta, BA, LMT

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to get themselves there and they can afford the time and cost of service. For too many people, however, the time of greatest need is also the time of least access. Finances are stretched thin by medical bills from life-altering illness or injury, the aftermath of a natural disaster has left them scrambling for bare necessities, fleeing domestic violence makes them vulnerable and cautious, or living in isolation due to poverty, addiction, age-related disease or chronic pain, to name just a few life circumstances that can impede access to much-needed care.

among allied health providers, community advocates and other stakeholders. When I reflect on my 25 years in this profession, the increased awareness our clients and the public have about the numerous positive benefits of massage is exhilarating. Our clients assume a few privileges when they come to our offices—they are well enough

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