Choosing a massage therapist for pain management involves a series of steps. First, ask your doctor for a referral. Whether you visit a chiropractor, osteopath, physician, or psychiatrist, it’s important to receive a professional opinion.
Next, perform a Web search to find a trained and licensed massage therapist in your area. Organizations such as the Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals (ABMP) and the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) provide resource locators on their websites.
Finally, review your pain management requirements against the massage practitioner’s capabilities. A masseuse who works with clients in sports medicine may not be the best fit if you’re recovering from back surgery. When in doubt, ask your doctor for advice and assistance.
