Advancing Massage Through Research and Advocacy

 November 1, 2025

Research is the foundation for progress in the massage therapy profession. By establishing strong evidence and elevating practice standards, research not only validates the benefits of massage but also fuels policy changes that expand access to care.

At AMTA, we are deeply committed to advancing this work by advocating for federal research funding and supporting innovative studies in partnership with the Massage Therapy Foundation (MTF). Together, these research initiatives are helping shape the future of the massage profession.

AMTA Advocates for Federal Funding of NCCIH: A Leader in Research   

Earlier this year, AMTA submitted a statement to the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee, urging for continued federal funding for the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH): an agency uniquely positioned to lead research for integrative treatments for chronic pain and other health issues. We also strongly opposed the Administration’s proposal to eliminate the Center.

AMTA’s advocacy, together with that of our health care partners, has kept this issue at the forefront—through policy engagement, public statements and direct conversations with lawmakers. Both the House and Senate Appropriations Committees approved Fiscal Year 2026 bills maintaining NCCIH’s current funding. Had the initial proposal succeeded, it would have stripped critical federal support for safe, cost-effective, non‐pharmaceutical approaches to care and been a major setback for massage therapy and other integrative health professions.

While this progress is encouraging, the process is not finished as final legislation must still be passed. Importantly, the Senate’s report highlights the value of integrative care, calling for expanded research on pain management, ongoing investment in the National Institute of Health Helping to End Addiction Long-term^® Initiative and broader access to non-pharmacologic treatments. These efforts align closely with AMTA’s advocacy priorities and vision for advancing massage therapy research.

AMTA’s Partnership with the MTF: An Investment in Research

Through our partnership with the MTF, AMTA has invested more than $16 million in massage therapy research since the foundation’s inception 35 years ago, and our commitment continues to grow. In January of this year, we pledged an additional $2.5 million over the next 5 years, an unprecedented level of support for research projects that strengthen the evidence base for massage as an effective integrative health treatment, while empowering massage therapists with the knowledge and credibility to deliver safe, effective patient-centered care. Below are some of the current and recently completed research initiatives AMTA is funding through the Foundation:

Myofascial Release Therapy for Pediatric Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) ($299,465 grant in 2025): This randomized controlled study evaluates abdominal myofascial release (MFR) for improving symptoms, quality of life and bowel function in adolescents with constipation-predominant IBS, while using a Wireless Patch System to track gastrointestinal activity. By combining patient-reported outcomes with physiological data, it aims to reveal MFR’s therapeutic benefits and mechanisms, advancing safer, developmentally-appropriate treatments for pediatric IBS.

Massage Impact on Sleep in Hospitalization for Pediatric Oncology and Stem Cell Transplant Patients ($294,822 grant in 2024): This three-year study at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and Children’s National Hospital is evaluating massage as a non-pharmaceutical intervention for pediatric oncology patients. The research aims to show that routine massage therapy can improve sleep quality and duration for children undergoing intensive chemotherapy or stem cell transplants, ultimately supporting their overall well-being.

Trauma-Informed and Culturally Responsive Integrated Massage Therapy ($300,000 grant in 2023): Center for Victims of Torture has recognized the urgent need for trauma-informed massage therapy interventions for adult survivors of torture and war, highlighting a critical lack of research on culturally responsive practices and integration of language services. This gap is especially concerning given that over 1.3 million survivors live in the U.S., with millions more worldwide requiring similar support.

Massage Therapy as a Preventative for Post-Irradiation Fibrosis and Neuropathy ($187,012 grant in 2023): This foundational study investigated whether manual therapy techniques, such as massage and mobilization, can prevent radiation-induced fibrosis and related complications. Using an animal model, the research aimed to provide evidence that massage therapy may reduce the harmful effects of life-extending radiation treatment for cancer. This study was completed on April 30, 2025.

Massage Service Integration in a Military Primary Care Clinic ($209,050 grant in 2019–2025): This study examined the high prevalence of acute and chronic pain within the Department of Defense (DoD) and Veterans Administration (VA), where opioid use mirrors the civilian epidemic. It explored massage therapy as a promising, evidence-based strategy to help reduce the burden of chronic pain in these populations. This study was completed on September 15, 2025. 

Learn more about the Massage Therapy Foundation’s current research projects:

Massage Therapy’s Expanding Role in Health Care

Research studies like those listed above, along with countless others, are helping massage therapy gain recognition as a vital part of complementary and integrative health care. Today, massage is:

• Offered as a supplemental benefit in Medicare Advantage plans.
  
  
• Covered by the VA and DoD for veterans and active-duty military.
  
  
• Integrated into top health care systems including Mayo Clinic, Memorial Sloan Kettering, and Duke Integrative Medicine.
  
  
• Endorsed by major health care organizations like the American College of Physicians and The Joint Commission.
  
  
• Backed by growing research in areas such as chronic pain, cancer care, trauma recovery and neonatal health.

These advancements are possible because of the ongoing investment in massage therapy research.

Changing Public Perception About Massage Therapy

Research doesn’t just influence policymakers—it also shifts public opinion. A recent consumer survey revealed that:

• 95% of people believe massage contributes to overall health and wellness.
  
  
• 94% of people say massage can effectively reduce pain.
  
  
• 30% of people have used massage specifically for pain relief.

Through research and advocacy, AMTA is helping ensure these perspectives are heard and reflected in health care policy.

Research Expands Access to Massage

At AMTA, we believe research is not optional—it is essential. By funding studies, supporting NCCIH and investing in the MTF, we are securing a future where massage therapy is fully recognized as a trusted, evidence-based component of integrative health care.

Research drives standards. Research informs decisions. Research advances policy change. Most importantly, research is helping ensure that more people have access to safe, effective and evidence-based massage therapy when they need it most.