In this chapter, unless the
context otherwise requires, the following meanings shall apply:
(1) "Board" means the Washington state board of massage.
(2) "Massage" and "massage therapy" mean a health care
service involving the external manipulation or pressure of soft
tissue for therapeutic purposes. Massage therapy includes
techniques such as tapping, compressions, friction, Swedish
gymnastics or movements, gliding, kneading, shaking, and fascial
or connective tissue stretching, with or without the aids of
superficial heat, cold, water, lubricants, or salts. Massage
therapy does not include diagnosis or attempts to adjust or
manipulate any articulations of the body or spine or mobilization
of these articulations by the use of a thrusting force, nor does
it include genital manipulation.
(3) "Massage practitioner" means an individual licensed
under this chapter.
(4) "Secretary" means the secretary of health or the
secretary's designee.
(5) "Massage business" means the operation of a business
where massages are given.
(6) "Animal massage practitioner" means an individual with a
license to practice massage therapy in this state with additional
training in animal therapy.
(7) "Intraoral massage" means the manipulation or pressure
of soft tissue inside the mouth or oral cavity for therapeutic
purposes.
[2007 c 272 § 1; 2002 c 277 § 1; 2001 c 297 § 2; 1997 c 297 § 2; 1991 c 3 § 252; 1987 c 443 § 2; 1979 c 158 § 74; 1975 1st ex.s. c 280 § 1.]
NOTES:
Findings -- Intent -- 2001 c 297: "The legislature finds that
massage therapists have contributed significantly to the welfare
of humans. The legislature also finds that massage therapists
can have a significant positive impact on the well-being of
animals, especially in the equine industry.
It is the legislature's intent to have the Washington state
board of massage adopt rules under their current authority
providing for an endorsement for currently licensed massage
practitioners to perform animal massage upon completion of
certain training courses." [2001 c 297 § 1.]