Every individual deals with different variables. If a particular health issue is being addressed, the severity and longevity of the problem will affect how frequently the initial corrective treatments are required. Once specific issues have been resolved, a maintenance/wellness routine might consist of once every month or every other month sessions. Your body will tell you when you need a massage (unless you tune it out). Once you determine your personal needs it’s up to you to decide whether to stay ahead of the need or to wait longer and respond to the need when it returns. Keep in mind that a full-body massage is not your only option. A 15 minute seated massage may be all you need one month while a one hour full-body massage may be what you need the next month.
Must massage be performed by a Licensed Massage Therapist?
The state of Texas recognizes that massage affects bodily functions to such an extent that it has tasked the Department of Health (DOH) with regulating and licensing massage practitioners and establishments. A Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT) must satisfy DOH mandated background and training requirements including ongoing continuing education credits intended to keep their knowledge and skills up to date. Within the state of Texas, a person that performs massage for compensation (money or goods) is required by law to have a valid TX massage license.
Even though massage is one of the safest health care practices, due to the health and possible safety issues involved, it is strongly advised that a Licensed Massage Therapist be consulted to discuss appropriate procedures and concerns before providing regular massage to a friend or family member, especially a frail or ill one.
Once a massage therapist has determined the most effective routines for a specific client, they are often more than happy to train a friend or family member so that they can provide more frequent treatments on a continuing basis.