Raynor Naturopathic Massage

Reflexology & Foot Massage Regulations in Tennessee

Reflexology & Foot Massage Regulations in Tennessee

1. State Overview of Reflexology

  • Tennessee maintains a Reflexology Registry separate from massage licensure. Under T.C.A. § 63-30-105, reflexologists must register with the Department of Health’s Division of Health Related Boards to legally practice tn.gov.

  • The Massage Licensure Act (T.C.A. § 63-18) explicitly exempts reflexology:

    “The practice of reflexology shall not be subject to the licensure requirements of this chapter. For the purposes of this chapter, ‘reflexology’ means the application of specific pressures to reflex points in the hands and feet only.” massagechangeslives.com

2. Reflexologist Registration Requirements

To become a Registered Certified Reflexologist in Tennessee, you must:

  • Complete 200 hours of board-approved reflexology training (hands-on and theory) tn.gov.

  • Obtain endorsement from another state’s reflexology registry (if applicable), OR meet Tennessee’s education pathway.

  • Submit the Reflexology Registry application and pay the required fee.

  • Renew your registration biennially, as notified by the Division.

Apply & Learn More →
https://www.tn.gov/health/health-program-areas/health-professional-boards/reflexology-board/reflexology-board/about.html tn.gov

3. Tennessee Massage Therapist Licensing

If you wish to perform broader foot massage or advertise “massage,” you must hold a Massage Therapist license under T.C.A. § 63-18:

Requirement Details
Education Completion of an approved 500–625 hour massage-therapy program massagechangeslives.com
Examination Pass the MBLEx (Massage & Bodywork Licensing Exam) or Board-approved equivalent
Background Check & Fingerprints FBI and Tennessee Bureau of Investigation checks; fingerprints required
Continuing Education 24 hours every two years, including ethics & Tennessee laws
Licensure Fee & Renewal Apply and renew via the Tennessee Board of Massage Licensure portal

Apply & Renew Your MT License →
https://doh.sd.gov/licensing-and-records/boards/massage/massage-therapy-information/ massagechangeslives.commassagechangeslives.com

https://youtu.be/0kITCWLS_HQ

4. Reflexology vs. Massage Therapy

  • Reflexology Only (Registered Reflexologist): Hands & feet only—exempt when registered and not marketed as massage.

  • Massage Therapy (MT License): Any broader soft-tissue work—requires MT licensure.

5. Local Business & Health-Dept Permits

Even exempt reflexologists generally need:

  • A city/county business license

  • Health-dept or zoning approval for public practice

Check your local clerk/health office before opening.

6. Raynor® Reflexology Guidance

  • Raynor-trained reflexologists can leverage Tennessee’s registry exemption—just register and maintain your credential.

  • To offer foot massage beyond reflexology, obtain your MT license.

  • On your site, clearly state:

    “Certified Raynor Reflexology – Registered Reflexologist (Hands & Feet Only)”

Explore courses → https://www.raynormassage.com/courses/

7. FAQs

Q: Can I call it “foot massage” as a reflexologist?
A: No—“massage” implies MT scope. Use “reflexology” only.

Q: How often must I renew my registry?
A: Biennially, per the Division’s notice.

Q: Where’s the reflexology exemption?
A: T.C.A. § 63-18-104(c): https://law.justia.com/codes/tennessee/2019/title-63/chapter-18/part-1/section-63-18-104/

9. Resources & Links

Disclaimer: Laws and local ordinances change. Always verify current requirements with the Tennessee Department of Health and your local licensing authorities before opening or advertising your practice.