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Reflexology & Foot Massage Regulations in Pennsylvania

Reflexology & Foot Massage Regulations in Pennsylvania

1. State Overview of Reflexology

In Pennsylvania, reflexology is governed under the Massage Therapy Law (Act 118 of 2008), which defines reflexology as the application of pressure to feet, hands, or ears and requires a massage therapist license to perform reflexology services .

2. Exemption: Section 13, Part 4 “Other Professions”

“Nothing in this act shall be construed as preventing, restricting or requiring licensure of…
(4) The practice by an individual while performing reflexology.”
— Massage Therapy Law, Section 13, Part 4

Interpretation:

  • Certified reflexologists (e.g. Raynor-trained practitioners) may perform pure reflexology without a massage-therapist license, provided they do not also hold themselves out as performing massage therapy.

  • This exemption sits alongside others for federal employees, students, and licensed professionals acting within their scope.

3. Pennsylvania Massage Therapist Licensing

If you wish to go beyond reflexology (or perform any modality advertised as “massage”), you must hold a Massage Therapist license:

Requirement Details
Education Complete a 600-hour approved program (anatomy, techniques, ethics, practicum)
Examination Pass the MBLEx
Continuing Education (Renewal) Biennial renewal requires 24 hours CE, including child-abuse recognition/reporting
Fees Initial license $100; renewal $175 every two years
Background Check FBI & PA State Police checks; fingerprinting required

Full licensure details →
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dos/department-and-offices/bpoa/boards-commissions/massage-therapy/

4. Local Business & Health-Department Permits

Beyond state licensure, many Pennsylvania municipalities require:

  • A general business license or registration with the local health department.

  • Compliance with county or borough ordinances governing “massage, reflexology, or spa” establishments—check your city or township code (e.g., Coopersburg’s ban on unlicensed reflexology businesses) ecode360.com.

Tip: Always verify local zoning, health, and business-registration requirements before opening your practice.

https://youtu.be/0ER_X2lEchQ

6. Raynor Reflexology Guidance in Pennsylvania

  • Raynor-trained reflexologists may legally offer pure reflexology statewide—leveraging the Section 13, Part 4(4) exemption.

  • To perform or advertise any massage modalities, secure your Massage Therapist license.

  • On your site, clearly state:

    “Certified Raynor Reflexology – Reflexology Only (No Massage Therapy).”

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7. Quick Reference Table

Service Type State License Required? Local Permit Often Required?
Pure Reflexology (exempt) No (Section 13, Part 4(4) exemption) Yes (business/health-dept permit)
Massage Therapy Yes (Massage Therapist license) Yes
Mixed Reflexology + Massage Yes Yes

 

 

8. FAQs

Q: Can I advertise “foot massage” under the exemption?
A: No—only “reflexology” (pressure on feet/hands/ears) is exempt. Any reference to “massage” triggers the licensing requirement.

Q: Does the exemption require certification?
A: You must be a certified reflexologist (e.g., Raynor-trained) and limit your scope to reflexology.

Q: Where can I read Section 13, Part 4?
A: Massage Therapy Law, Section 13: “Other Professions,” Part 4: https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/legis/li/uconsCheck.cfm?yr=2008&sessInd=0&act=118

8. Resources & Links

Disclaimer: Laws and local ordinances change. Always verify current requirements with the Pennsylvania State Board of Massage Therapy and your local licensing authorities before opening or advertising your practice.