Title 5
Businesses and Professions

Chapter 95
Licensing of Massage Therapists

R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-95-4

§ 5-95-4. Scope of practice of massage therapy.

“Massage therapy” means the use of massage by a massage therapist licensed under this chapter for therapeutic purposes, including, but not limited to, pain management, stress reduction, promotion of relaxation, and enhancement of general health and well-being. Massage therapy includes, but is not limited to, manipulation of soft tissue and normal anatomical range of movement of the body to develop an appropriate massage therapy session by assessment, evaluation and/or treatment and the delivery of self-care and health maintenance information. Massage therapy does not encompass:

(1) Diagnosis;

(2) The prescribing of drugs or medicines;

(3) Spinal manipulation; and

(4) Any service or procedure for which a license or registration is required by law, including, but not limited to, the practice of medicine, chiropractic, naturopathy, physical therapy, athletic training, occupational therapy, nutrition, psychotherapy, behavioral health services, or podiatry.

History of Section.
P.L. 2024, ch. 346, § 2, effective June 26, 2024; P.L. 2024, ch. 347, § 2, effective June 26, 2024.