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

Ohio Adopts Interstate Massage Compact

The Ohio legislature adopted Senate Bill 56 on June 21, becoming the second state to enact the Interstate Massage Compact. Massage therapists will soon be able to obtain a multistate license that will reduce holdups and delays that often occur when moving to a different state.

US Department of Education 150% Rule Update

A federal judge has granted a preliminary injunction that halts the enforcement of the US Department of Education’s new Bare Minimum Rule, also known as the “100% rule,” until the court takes further action. This is the first step in what could be a lengthy battle to ultimately delay enforcement of the rule, providing schools more time to adjust their programmatic standards, or overturn the rule altogether. Find out more and what your school needs to do to prepare.

Colorado Bill Requires Local Background Checks

Governor Jared Polis signed into law House Bill 24-1371, requiring local government (counties, cities, or municipalities) to conduct periodic criminal background checks for massage establishment operators, owners, and employees.

Blog

Perform Your Best with MassageBook

Illustration of computer and phones displaying MassageBook sites.

MassageBook wants to help you focus on delivering exceptional care to your clients and building the practice of your dreams.

Julie Plachta: Serving the Underserved

Woman massages a client who is lying facedown on a massage table.

As we get closer to celebrating Massage Is for EveryBody, July 14–20, 2024, we wanted to share more of Julie Plachta’s story, which exemplifies the inclusive values of this campaign.

Benefits

Featured ABMP Discount Partner: Hyperice

ABMP members save 10% on all Hyperice percussive and heat/ice technology massage devices, including the Hypervolt, Vyper Vibrating Fitness Roller, and Ice Compression.

Featured ABMP Discount Partner: Yomassage

ABMP members receive 20% off Signature Yomassage, Mindful Touch by Yomassage, Barefoot Yomassage, Table Yomassage, and Yomassage Facials certifications.

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