Scope of Practice for LMTs in Florida

In the state of Florida, licensed massage therapists (LMTs) are trained and authorized to assess and treat the soft tissues of the body—primarily muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia—through a variety of manual techniques. These include Swedish massage, deep tissue therapy, neuromuscular therapy, lymphatic drainage, myofascial release, and other hands-on methods designed to relieve pain, reduce stress, enhance circulation, improve mobility, and support the body’s natural healing processes.

Equally as important is knowing what is not in our scope of practice. Massage therapists are not permitted to diagnose medical conditions, prescribe medication, perform spinal adjustments, or treat specific diseases. We also cannot perform acupuncture, physical therapy, or chiropractic care unless we are separately licensed in those fields. As lymphatic therapists, we are often asked “how did it (the fluid) get there?”, but it is out of our scope to answer that question and/or to explain (diagnose) any unusual side effects of our treatments; we must refer those questions to medical professionals qualified in the areas of concern.

To be clear, this boundary isn't a limitation - it’s a strength. Understanding and respecting our scope allows massage therapists to work with integrity, build trust with clients, and collaborate effectively with other health professionals. By clearly communicating what Florida massage therapists can and cannot do, we help manage expectations and ensure that clients are choosing the right modality for their specific needs.

For example, someone with persistent pain may benefit greatly from massage, but if that pain is due to an undiagnosed internal condition, they’ll also need input from a physician or specialist. Having a network of chiropractors, physical therapists, acupuncturists, and medical doctors to refer to - and receive referrals from - creates a circle of care that better serves everyone involved.

Massage therapy is a powerful, supportive tool for wellness—but it works best in harmony with a team-based approach to health. By staying within our scope and knowing when to refer out, we elevate our profession and protect our clients’ well-being. Empowered, ethical practice isn't just about what we can do - it’s about knowing when to bring others in.